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

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.

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

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.

Step by step

1. Check that this program fits your situation. It is for South Carolina residents who are age 65 or older, blind, or living with a disability.
2. Review the basic limits before you apply. For a household of one or two, income must be at or below the program limit and resources must be within the program limit.
3. Gather your required papers. Get the Healthy Connections application, proof of income, proof of resources such as bank statements, and the Adult Disability Report if you are applying because of a disability.
4. Apply in the way that works best for you. Submit your application online or apply by phone at 1-888-549-0820.
5. Answer any follow-up questions from SCDHHS. If you applied based on disability, a disability decision must be made before Medicaid can start if Social Security has not already decided it.
6. Keep copies of what you submitted and watch for notices about the decision. If your income is higher but you need nursing-home-level care, ask about the long-term care path.

What to expect: After you apply, SCDHHS reviews your information and makes the final decision. You may be asked for more information before a decision is made. Processing times vary, so ask for an estimate if needed. If approved, coverage is renewed every year, so watch for your annual renewal notice and respond on time.

Renewals

annual