South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid for 2026. This means Medicaid, called Healthy Connections, is only open to specific groups.
You may qualify if you are a low-income child, a pregnant woman, a parent or caretaker, age 65 or older, or living with a disability.
Most childless adults under 65 do not qualify, no matter how low their income is. This guide breaks down the 2026 income limits, non-financial rules, and the exact steps to apply.
Quick Summary:
- South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid, so eligibility is based on specific categories, not just income.
- Parents, pregnant women, children, and seniors have different income limits.
- Income limits are based on a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
- Asset limits apply for seniors and people with disabilities.
- You can apply online, by phone, or by mail.
- Learn more in our full guide to Medicaid Eligibility in 2026.
What Is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a health coverage program for people with low income. It is run jointly by the federal government and each state, so the rules can differ depending on where you live.
In South Carolina, the program is called Healthy Connections. It pays for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and other care for people who qualify.
Medicaid vs. CHIP in South Carolina
CHIP stands for the Children’s Health Insurance Program. In South Carolina, CHIP works alongside Medicaid to cover kids in families with slightly higher incomes than the standard Medicaid limit.
Who Manages Healthy Connections?
The South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) runs Healthy Connections Medicaid. They decide who qualifies and process every application submitted in the state.
Who Qualifies for Medicaid in South Carolina in 2026?
South Carolina did not adopt Medicaid expansion for 2026. Because of this, eligibility depends on which category you fall into, not just your income alone.
Below are the main groups who may qualify for Healthy Connections coverage this year.
Children and Families
Children in low-income households often qualify through Medicaid or CHIP. Parents and caretaker relatives may also qualify, but their income limit is much lower than the limit for kids.
Pregnant Women
Pregnant women can qualify for Medicaid at a higher income level than most other groups. This coverage includes prenatal visits, delivery, and care after birth.
Seniors and People With Disabilities
Adults age 65 and older, and people with qualifying disabilities, may get full Medicaid coverage. This group also faces an asset limit in addition to the income limit.
Working Disabled Individuals
People with disabilities who work can still keep Medicaid under a special rule. This lets them earn more money without losing their health coverage.
2026 Income Limits by Category
Eligibility is based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). MAGI is compared to a percentage of the 2026 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for your household size.
The table below shows estimated 2026 monthly income limits for common categories. For a side-by-side look at how these numbers compare across the country, see our guide to Medicaid income limits by state in 2026.
| Category | Income Limit (% of FPL) | Monthly Limit (Family of 2) | Monthly Limit (Family of 4) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parents & Caretakers | ~67% FPL (with disregard) | ~$1,208* | $1,705 |
| Pregnant Women | 199% FPL | $3,588* | $5,335 |
| Children (CHIP) | 213% FPL | $3,840* | $5,720 |
| Full Medicaid (Aged/Disabled) | ~100% FPL | $1,803* | $2,750 |
*Estimated based on 2026 FPL guidelines and standard program percentages.
Understanding the Income Disregard
South Carolina applies a standard 5% income disregard for some groups. For example, the base limit for parents is 62% FPL, but the effective limit is often listed as 67% once this disregard is applied.
Family Planning Only Coverage
If you earn up to 199% FPL but don’t qualify for full Medicaid, you may still qualify for a limited benefit. This is called the Family Planning program, and it covers family planning services only.
Non-Financial Requirements in 2026
Meeting an income limit is not enough on its own. You must also meet a few basic non-financial rules to qualify for Healthy Connections Medicaid.
Here is what SCDHHS requires from every applicant.
Residency
You must live in South Carolina and intend to stay. Temporary visitors do not qualify.
Citizenship
You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen. This can include lawful permanent residents who have held that status for five years or more.
Identity Verification
You must provide a Social Security Number, or proof that you have applied for one. This helps SCDHHS confirm your identity and check your income records.
Asset Limits for Seniors and People With Disabilities
If you are applying through the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) category or for long-term care, an asset test applies. This is on top of the income limit for your category.
Below is what counts, what doesn’t, and what happens if assets are given away too soon.
Countable Assets
The asset limit is $2,000 for a single applicant. Countable assets include cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and investment property.
Exempt Assets
Some assets do not count toward your limit. These include your primary home, if your equity is below the federal limit, one vehicle, and personal belongings.
Working Disabled Earnings Limit
Working individuals who receive SSI can earn up to $44,963 a year in 2026 and keep Medicaid. This protection falls under Section 1619(b) of federal Social Security rules.
Nursing Home Transfer Penalty
If you give away assets for less than fair value within 5 years of applying, a penalty period can apply. This penalty is calculated using the average private-pay nursing home rate, about $8,000 a month in 2026.
What Does Medicaid Cover?
Healthy Connections Medicaid covers a wide range of medical care. This includes doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, and preventive services like checkups and screenings.
Coverage can also include mental health care, maternity care, and long-term care for those who qualify through the ABD or nursing home categories.
How Much Does Medicaid Pay Providers?
Doctors and other providers are paid at set rates when they treat Medicaid patients. You can see these payment rates in our breakdown of the Medicaid Fee Schedule 2026.
How to Apply for Medicaid in South Carolina
You can apply for Healthy Connections Medicaid in a few different ways. Pick the one that works best for you.
Step 1: Apply Online
The fastest way to apply is at apply.scdhhs.gov. This lets you submit your application and documents right away.
Step 2: Apply by Phone
Call the Member Contact Center at 1-888-549-0820. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Step 3: Apply In Person or by Mail
You can also visit your local county eligibility office. If you prefer, you can fill out a paper application and mail it in instead.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once you submit your application, SCDHHS reviews your information to decide if you qualify. This process checks your income, household size, and other details you provided.
Approval Timeline
Most applications are processed within 45 days. Applications based on disability can take up to 90 days, since they require extra medical review.
Coverage Start Date
If approved, your coverage may start on the first day of the month you applied. Some applicants can also get coverage backdated up to 3 months if they needed care during that time.
Renewal
Medicaid coverage is not permanent. You will need to renew your eligibility, usually once a year, to keep your coverage active.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Did South Carolina expand Medicaid for 2026?
A: No. South Carolina has not adopted full ACA Medicaid expansion for 2026. Eligibility remains based on specific categories, like children, pregnant women, parents, seniors, and people with disabilities, rather than income alone for all adults.
Q: What is the Medicaid income limit for parents in South Carolina?
A: Parents and caretaker relatives generally qualify at around 62% of the Federal Poverty Level. With the standard income disregard applied, this effective limit is often cited as about 67% FPL.
Q: Can childless adults get Medicaid in South Carolina?
A: In most cases, no. Since South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid, childless adults under 65 without a qualifying disability usually do not qualify, regardless of how low their income is.
Q: What is the asset limit for Medicaid in South Carolina?
A: For Aged, Blind, and Disabled or nursing home Medicaid, the asset limit is $2,000 for a single applicant. Your home, one vehicle, and personal belongings are usually exempt from this limit.
Q: How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid in South Carolina?
A: Most applications are processed within 45 days. Applications based on a disability can take up to 90 days because they require additional medical documentation and review.
Q: How do I apply for Medicaid in South Carolina?
A: You can apply online at apply.scdhhs.gov, by calling 1-888-549-0820, or in person at your local county eligibility office. Applying online is usually the fastest option.
Sources & Disclaimer
Written & Reviewed by Akash Biswas, MSW | Former Medicaid Caseworker Trainer | Verified against official Medicaid.gov and state agency guidelines | Last Updated: July 2026
Sources:
- South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Program Eligibility and Income Limits: https://www.scdhhs.gov/members/program-eligibility-and-income-limits
- South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Healthy Connections Homepage: https://www.scdhhs.gov/homepage
- Medicaid.gov: https://www.medicaid.gov
Disclaimer: CheckMedicaid.com is not affiliated with any government agency. This content is for educational purposes only. For official eligibility rules, contact your local South Carolina county eligibility office or visit Medicaid.gov.
