How to apply for Alabama Medicaid for people 65+, blind, or disabled (SSI and SSI-related)

Who it's for

In Alabama, most people who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled get full Medicaid through Supplemental Security Income (SSI). If you get SSI, you get Medicaid. For 2026, income cannot be more than $1,014 a month for one person or $1,511 for a couple. Resources cannot be more than $2,000 for one person or $3,000 for a couple. Resources include cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, CDs, and real estate other than your home. Apply for SSI with the Social Security Administration. People who lost SSI but kept Medicaid under certain laws apply for SSI-related Medicaid with the Alabama Medicaid Agency.

What you'll need

• SSI application with the Social Security Administration
• Form 204/205 application (for SSI-related Medicaid only)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Alabama Medicaid for people 65+, blind, or disabled (SSI and SSI-related). 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 sSI application with the Social Security Administration, form 204/205 application (for SSI-related Medicaid only) — 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. Check which path fits your situation. If you get SSI, you get Medicaid. If you lost SSI but kept Medicaid under certain laws, apply for SSI-related Medicaid instead.
2. Apply online or by phone at 1-800-362-1504.
3. Complete the SSI application with the Social Security Administration if you are applying through SSI.
4. Complete Form 204/205 if you are applying for SSI-related Medicaid only.
5. Review the 2026 SSI limits before you apply. Income cannot be more than $1,014 a month for one person or $1,511 for a couple. Resources cannot be more than $2,000 for one person or $3,000 for a couple.
6. Ask about other Medicaid paths if your income is higher and you need nursing-home-level care. A nursing home or Elderly and Disabled Waiver path may be available up to $2,982 a month.

What to expect: After you apply, Social Security decides SSI, and Medicaid accepts the Social Security decision on disability. The agency makes the final decision on Medicaid. Processing times vary, so ask for an estimate when you apply. Coverage must be renewed every year. The limits listed here are the 2026 SSI limits.

Renewals

annual