Medical Assistance (MA) for Aged, Blind, or Disabled and Medicare Savings Programs
Medical Assistance for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (MA-ABD) and Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are Medicaid-administered programs that help low-income residents cover healthcare costs. While MA-ABD provides full Medicaid health coverage for those with very low income, MSPs specifically assist Medicare beneficiaries by paying for Medicare premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
How to Apply
You can apply for Medical Assistance (also known as Medicaid and MA) online at Maryland Benefits Programs & Services Portal, by mail or fax, or you may file in person at a regional office listed.
- Silver Spring Office 8818 Georgia Avenue, 1st. Floor, Silver Spring, MD 20910
- Rockville Office 1301 Piccard Drive, 2nd. Floor, Rockville, MD 20850
- Germantown Office 12900 Middlebrook Road, 1st. Floor, Germantown, MD 20874
Individuals who wish to apply but do not speak English or have limited English proficiency will have access to an interpreter. The interpreter may be a local department staff member, an individual designated by the applicant, an individual outside the agency who is proficient in the customer’s language, or the department can use the Language Line. An interpreter cannot be a minor child.
Documents to Bring
In general, the following documents are needed:
- Proof of identity
- Social Security number (not the Social Security Card)
- Proof of income
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status for non-U.S. born applicants
Other information may be required once the interview has been completed
Eligibility Requirements
- Aged, Blind, Disabled (ABD): Federally matched Medical Assistance is provided to aged (65 years or older), blind or disabled individuals. Income and assets are taken into consideration. Benefits are available to persons younger than 65 if they have a disability, as defined either by a review team or based on the fact that they receive Social Security. Those eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) automatically qualify for Medical Assistance.
- Medicare Beneficiary Program: Those eligible for Medicare may receive coverage for payment of premiums if their income is within specific limits through the Special Low Income Medicare Beneficiary Program (SLMB). Coverage may also be provided for Medicare deductibles and co-pays through the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program (QMB).
Fees and Payments
None
FAQ's
1. How long does it take to process my Medicaid application?
It takes approximately 30 days.
2. What is the County’s Role with Medicaid?
ABD Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs are managed by the State of Maryland, Department of Human Services (DHS). It uses federal and state funds to provide the health care coverage. Montgomery County DHHS staff determine Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs eligibility at the local level and assist county residents who want to apply for the program.
3. What should I do when my address, family size, or income changes?
It’s important to update your information right away if you’ve had changes in your household or income to be sure you are receiving the right coverage.
Please report any address or income changes within 10 days, as required, by logging in to your Maryland Benefits Programs & Services Portal or reporting to the local office listed.
Additional Information
No additional Information at this time.