It will take an unknown period of time to get a decision about your disability status, so it's important not to assume that you'll get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
You can apply for coverage through Pennie, while you wait for a disability status decision.
- When you apply, you will to see if you qualify for Medicaid or for financial assistance through Pennie. You may qualify for Medicaid based on your income and family size.
- You may qualify to enroll in a health plan through Pennie with premium tax credits and other savings that make coverage more affordable. This will depend on your household size and income.
If you get a positive disability decision, you may have to wait 24 months before Medicare coverage starts. If you get a negative disability decision, you can still apply for coverage on Pennie. Answer “yes” when asked if you have a disability. Pennie will send your application to the PA Department of Human Services to see if you qualify for Medicaid (Medical Assistance or MA).