This bill amends the Social Security Act to eliminate the upper age limit for working adults with disabilities seeking Medicaid eligibility through buy-in programs. Currently, these programs often restrict eligibility to individuals under 65 years of age, creating a coverage gap for those who continue to work past that age. Specifically, the legislation removes the phrase "but less than 65" from relevant sections, allowing individuals aged 16 and older to qualify, provided they would otherwise be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) but for their earnings. This change ensures that working adults with disabilities can maintain crucial Medicaid coverage regardless of their age, promoting continued employment and access to necessary medical assistance. States currently offering such programs are granted a transition period until January 1, 2028, to comply with these new requirements.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.
Ensuring Access to Medicaid Buy-in Programs Act of 2026
USA119th CongressS-3690| Senate
| Updated: 1/27/2026
This bill amends the Social Security Act to eliminate the upper age limit for working adults with disabilities seeking Medicaid eligibility through buy-in programs. Currently, these programs often restrict eligibility to individuals under 65 years of age, creating a coverage gap for those who continue to work past that age. Specifically, the legislation removes the phrase "but less than 65" from relevant sections, allowing individuals aged 16 and older to qualify, provided they would otherwise be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) but for their earnings. This change ensures that working adults with disabilities can maintain crucial Medicaid coverage regardless of their age, promoting continued employment and access to necessary medical assistance. States currently offering such programs are granted a transition period until January 1, 2028, to comply with these new requirements.