How to apply for Healthy Connections Medicaid for people 65+, blind, or disabled (ABD)

South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS)

Who it's for

Healthy Connections is South Carolina's Medicaid program. The Aged, Blind or Disabled (ABD) group covers people who are 65 or older, blind, or living with a disability. People who qualify get all Medicaid covered services, such as doctor visits, hospital care, and prescriptions. Income must be at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level: $1,330 a month for one person or $1,804 for two (effective March 1, 2026). Resources must be $9,950 or less for one person or $14,910 for two (effective January 1, 2026). Apply online, by mail or fax, or at your local county office.

Limits shown are for a household of one or two. If Social Security has not decided a disability, it must be decided before Medicaid can start. People with higher income who need nursing-home-level care may qualify through the long-term care path instead. SCDHHS makes the final decision.

People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.

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What you'll need

  • Healthy Connections application
  • Proof of income
  • Proof of resources (bank statements)
  • Adult Disability Report (if applying because of a disability)

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 1-888-549-0820

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Healthy Connections Medicaid for people 65+, blind, or 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 healthy Connections application, proof of income, proof of resources (bank statements) — 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

Official source →Last verified · September 27, 2026

Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.