How to apply for Pennsylvania Medical Assistance for the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (Non-MAGI MA)

Who it's for

Pennsylvania Medical Assistance Non-MAGI category covers comprehensive medical, behavioral health, and long-term services & supports for low-income residents age 65+, blind, or disabled. 2026 limits: single-applicant income $989.10/month (SSI-linked, approximately Federal Benefit Rate); single-applicant resources $2,000 + $6,000 PA-specific exemption = effective $8,000. PA's ABD gate is relatively strict, similar to Texas. Apply through the county Assistance Office (CAO), online at COMPASS (compass.dhs.pa.gov), or by calling 215-560-7226 (Philadelphia) or 1-866-550-4355 (statewide DHS helpline).

What you'll need

• Proof of age (65+) or disability/blindness determination
• Proof of Pennsylvania residency
• Social Security card
• Proof of citizenship or qualified immigration status
• Proof of all household income (Social Security, pension, etc.)
• Proof of all countable assets (bank statements, brokerage statements)
• Medicare card if enrolled

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Pennsylvania Medical Assistance for the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (Non-MAGI MA). 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 disability/blindness determination, proof of Pennsylvania residency, social Security card — 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 all required documents before you start your application. You will need: proof of age (65+) or a disability or blindness determination; proof of Pennsylvania residency; your Social Security card; proof of citizenship or qualified immigration status; proof of all household income (such as Social Security or pension statements); proof of all countable assets (such as bank and brokerage statements); and your Medicare card if you are enrolled in Medicare.
2. Check that your income and resources fall within Pennsylvania's Non-MAGI MA limits. In 2026, the single-applicant income limit is $989.10 per month and the resource limit is $8,000 (a $2,000 SSI floor plus a $6,000 Pennsylvania-specific exemption). If a spouse needs long-term care, Pennsylvania's spousal-impoverishment protections apply — the community spouse may keep up to $162,660 in countable assets plus a monthly income allowance. Contact your county Assistance Office (CAO) or a benefits counselor for help calculating your exact eligibility.
3. Choose how you want to apply. You can apply online through COMPASS, by phone at 1-866-550-4355 (statewide DHS helpline), or by calling 215-560-7226 if you are in Philadelphia. You may also apply in person at your local county Assistance Office (CAO).
4. Complete the application fully and accurately. Answer all questions about your income, assets, household members, and medical needs. Double-check that every section is filled in before you submit.
5. Submit your application along with copies of all required documents. Keep copies of everything you send for your own records.
6. Respond promptly if your county Assistance Office (CAO) contacts you for additional information or a scheduled interview. Missing a request for information can delay or stop your application.
7. Track your application status by contacting your local CAO or calling the statewide DHS helpline at 1-866-550-4355. Processing times vary, so ask the agency for an estimate when you follow up.
8. Mark your calendar for annual recertification. Pennsylvania requires Non-MAGI MA recipients to recertify their eligibility once a year. Watch for renewal notices from DHS and respond by any deadline shown on the notice to avoid a gap in coverage.

What to expect: After you submit your application, your county Assistance Office (CAO) will review your documents and may contact you to verify information or schedule an interview. Processing times vary, so reach out to your CAO or call 1-866-550-4355 for a status update. If approved, you will receive a notice explaining your coverage start date and any cost-sharing that applies. Pennsylvania requires annual recertification to keep your benefits — you will receive a renewal notice each year, and it is important to respond by the deadline listed on that notice to avoid any interruption in your Medical Assistance coverage.

Renewals

annual recertification