Understanding AABD Medicaid in Illinois: Help for Seniors and People with Disabilities
What Is AABD Medicaid?
AABD stands for Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled. It’s a special Medicaid program in Illinois that helps low-income:
Seniors (age 65 or older)
Adults with disabilities
People who are blind
This program gives free or low-cost health insurance for people who need help with medical costs, long-term care, or support services at home.
Who Qualifies for AABD Medicaid in Illinois?
To qualify, you must meet three main requirements:
1. Age or Disability
You must be 65 or older, blind, or have a long-term disability that qualifies under Social Security rules.
2. Low Income
Income limits vary slightly by situation, but as a general rule:
Monthly income must be around $1,255/month or less for one person
Assets must be $2,000 or less ($3,000 for a couple)
Some people who are slightly over the income limit may qualify through a "spend-down" (more on that below).
3. U.S. Citizenship or Legal Residency
You must live in Illinois and be a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident with proper documentation.
What Does AABD Medicaid Cover?
AABD Medicaid covers a wide range of medical services, including:
Doctor visits
Hospital stays
Prescription drugs
Home health services
Nursing home care
Medical equipment (like wheelchairs)
Mental health treatment
Dental and vision (limited for adults)
If you're already getting Social Security Disability (SSDI) or SSI, you may automatically qualify for AABD Medicaid too.
What Is the AABD Spend-Down Program?
If your income is too high to qualify directly, you might still get coverage through the AABD Spend-Down Program.
How it works:
Think of it like a deductible.
You pay part of your medical bills until you reach your spend-down amount.
After that, Medicaid kicks in for the rest of the month.
This is useful for people with high medical costs who are just over the income limit.
How to Apply for AABD Medicaid
You can apply in a few different ways:
✅ Apply Online:
Visit ABE.Illinois.gov – the official Illinois Benefits portal.
✅ Apply In Person:
Go to your local DHS Family Community Resource Center for help with your application. You can find one near you at dhs.state.il.us.
✅ Need Help?
Many local senior centers, social workers, or nonprofits can help you apply. Look for Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) in your area.
What to Bring When You Apply
Have these items ready:
Proof of age or disability (like a doctor’s statement or SSA letter)
Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, etc.)
Bank statements or other asset info
ID and proof of Illinois address
What If I Also Have Medicare?
Good news: AABD Medicaid can work with Medicare.
This is called "dual eligibility." It means:
Medicaid can help pay your Medicare premiums
You may get help with copays, coinsurance, and deductibles
You may qualify for extra help with prescriptions
