Benefits · Healthcare
How to apply for Pennsylvania Medical Assistance for the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (Non-MAGI MA)
Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Medical Assistance Programs (OMAP) — administers Non-MAGI Medical Assistance for residents age 65+, blind, or disabled; eligibility processed by county Assistance Offices (CAOs)
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.state.pa.us), or by calling 215-560-7226 (Philadelphia) or 1-866-550-4355 (statewide DHS helpline).
PA's Non-MAGI MA income gate (~$989/month) is similar to Texas's SSI-FBR gate — much stricter than New York's ~138% FPL Medicaid ABD. PA does offer a $6,000 resource exemption on top of the $2,000 SSI floor (effective $8,000 single). Married couples — long-term-care note: Pennsylvania applies spousal protections to Medicaid long-term care, including Community HealthChoices and nursing-facility care. When one spouse needs long-term care and the other stays home, federal spousal-impoverishment rules protect the spouse who stays home (the community spouse). The single-applicant income and asset limits above are not applied to the community spouse's protected share — in 2026 that spouse can keep up to $162,660 in countable assets, plus a minimum monthly income allowance, while the spouse who needs care still qualifies. The state Medicaid agency calculates the exact protected amount; this eligibility check cannot. Not legal or financial advice.
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
Apply online: official application
By phone: 866-550-4355
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.
Renewals
annual recertification
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.