How to apply for Ohio Medicaid — Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD)

Who it's for

Ohio Medicaid Aged/Blind/Disabled covers Ohioans age 65+, blind, or disabled. Income limit (2026): ~$967/month single / ~$1,452/month couple (SSI-FBR linked — STRICT, similar to PA and TX). Resource limit: $2,000 single / $3,000 couple. Ohio also offers Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities (MBIWD). Apply via Ohio Benefits (benefits.ohio.gov), at the local County Department of Job and Family Services (CDJFS), or by calling 1-844-640-6446.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 65+ (or blind/disabled status)
• Proof of Ohio residency
• Proof of all household income and assets
• Social Security card
• Medicare card if enrolled

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Ohio Medicaid — Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 65+ (or blind/disabled status), proof of Ohio residency, proof of all household income and assets — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your required documents: proof of age 65+ or blind/disabled status, proof of Ohio residency, proof of all household income and assets, your Social Security card, and your Medicare card if you are enrolled in Medicare.
2. Check your income and assets against the program limits. For 2026, the income limit is about $967 per month for a single person or $1,452 per month for a couple. The asset limit is $2,000 for a single person or $3,000 for a couple. Most middle-income seniors will not qualify on income alone. If your medical expenses are high, ask about Ohio's Medically Needy spend-down option.
3. If one spouse needs long-term care, be aware that Ohio's spousal-impoverishment protections apply. The spouse who stays home may keep a protected share of assets and income. Contact the Ohio Department of Medicaid or a benefits counselor for the exact amounts that apply to your situation.
4. Apply online through Ohio Benefits, by phone at 1-844-640-6446, or in person at your local County Department of Job and Family Services (CDJFS).
5. Submit your completed application along with all required documents through whichever channel you chose.
6. Watch for any follow-up requests from the agency. Respond promptly if additional information or verification is needed.

What to expect: After submitting your application, the Ohio Department of Medicaid or your local County Department of Job and Family Services will review your information. Processing times vary, so contact the agency at 1-844-640-6446 for an estimate of how long your review may take. If approved, your coverage will be explained in a written notice. Ohio Medicaid ABD requires annual renewal — you will need to confirm your eligibility each year, so watch for renewal notices and respond by any deadlines listed to avoid a gap in coverage.

Renewals

annual