If I Get Social Security Disability, Will I Get Health Care Benefits?

Question

Does being found disabled by Social Security automatically make me eligible for free health care insurance?

Answer

Many people think that when they are approved for SSI (Supplemental Security Income) disability benefits, they'll receive health care insurance. This isn't quite the case, but it's close. If you receive SSI, you will automatically be put on Medicaid, a state need-based free medical care program that pays for a certain number of doctor visits and prescriptions.

If you are approved for Social Security Disability (SSD), you will not receive Medicaid, but instead will receive Medicare. However, you will not go on Medicare until two years after your date of eligibility for SSD. For more information, see our article on Medicare and Medicaid for disability recipients.