South Carolina Medicaid Program & Eligibility

Coverage, eligibility, and how to get Medicaid help in South Carolina.

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1.3M

Medicaid Population

20%

State Coverage

Medicaid in South Carolina

South Carolina’s Medicaid program is called Healthy Connections. It is administered by the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS), jointly funded by the state and federal government.

SC Medicaid Eligibility

To be eligible for Medicaid in South Carolina, you must:
  • Live in South Carolina
  • Be a U.S. citizen, national, or a qualified immigrant
  • Have a household income at or below the limit for the specific program that applies to you

Healthy Connections’ programs cover several groups of people:

  • Children under 19
  • Pregnant women: covers prenatal care through 12 months postpartum, and your newborn is covered through their first birthday
  • Parents and caretakers: if you have a dependent child living with you
  • Seniors and people with disabilities: adults 65 and older, people who are blind, or those living with a qualifying disability
  • Working people with qualifying disabilities
  • Former foster youth: if you had Medicaid when you aged out of foster care, you can keep your coverage until age 26 with no income limit
  • People diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer
Note: South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. This means that eligibility rules are stricter, making it more difficult for adults without children or a certified disability to qualify.

Applying for Medicaid

South Carolina has multiple ways to apply for Healthy Connections, so you can choose the option that works for you.

  • Online: You can apply for Medicaid at apply.scdhhs.gov.
  • By phone: Call the Member Help Center at 1-888-549-0820, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  • By mail: You can download and complete the Healthy Connections Application Form and mail to: SCDHHS Central Mail, P.O. Box 100101, Columbia, SC 29202.
  • In person: You can also apply in person at your local county office.

After Applying

After you apply, the state of South Carolina will review your application and notify you of your eligibility.

While your application is under review: You may receive a notice in the mail from the state requesting proof of income and proof of identity or citizenship. Make sure to respond promptly so that your application can be processed without delays.

If you’re approved:

  • Coverage may start right away or be retroactive, meaning Medicaid may help cover bills you've already received.
  • You'll receive a member ID card in the mail. Keep it safe and bring it to all medical appointments.
  • You will usually enroll in a Medicaid managed care plan.

Staying enrolled:

  • Report any changes in income, household size, address, or family status as soon as possible.
  • Your coverage must be renewed annually. Watch for renewal notices in the mail and respond promptly to avoid losing coverage.

Income Limits


Income limits for Medicaid in South Carolina depend on your household size and what program applies to you.
South Carolina Medicaid Income Limits Calculator

South Carolina Medicaid Income Limit Calculator

Answer two questions to see the monthly income limit for the Healthy Connections program that applies to you.

Note: Income limits are based on your gross (pre-tax) income.

Make sure to count yourself and, if applicable, your spouse and any dependents.


Income limits effective 03/01/2026. This tool provides an estimate only — actual eligibility is determined by the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

What’s Covered

Doctor and Hospital Visits

Preventative Care and Screenings

Behavioral Health and Substance Use Treatment

Prescription Drugs

Maternity and Newborn Care

Dental and Vision Services

Long-Term Care (for eligible individuals)

Transportation Services

Need help with Medicaid
in South Carolina?

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions.

What is Medicaid (in South Carolina)?

Medicaid in Connecticut is a public health insurance program that provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families. In Connecticut, Medicaid is also known as HUSKY Health.

What if I don't qualify for Medicaid in South Carolina? 

If your income is too high for Medicaid (HUSKY), you may still qualify for free state health coverage through the Covered Connecticut program. If your income exceeds Covered Connecticut's limits, you may still be able to enroll in an affordable paid plain through Access Health CT.

How do I apply for Medicaid in South Carolina?

How you apply depends on your age and situation:
- Adults under 65 typically apply through Access Health CT 
- Seniors (65+) and people with disabilities usually apply through their local Department of Social Services (DSS)

Applications can be submitted online, by phone, by mail, or in person.

Why apply or renew through Fortuna Health?ᅠ

Filling out government forms (paper or digital) can be confusing. We know the anxiety of missing important mail from the state. We built Fortuna to take the stress out of health plan coverage.

We provide your own dedicated navigator available by phone and chat to help you out!

Is Medicaid in South Carolina free?

For most people, Medicaid in Connecticut (HUSKY) has no monthly premium and very low or no out‑of‑pocket costs. Some services may require small copayments, but many groups (such as children and pregnant individuals) are exempt.

What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Medicare is health insurance that generally covers people aged 65+. Medicaid covers people of all ages if you make below a certain income or face hardship based on other circumstances like disability.

Fortuna focuses on Medicaid. If you need Medicare support, we can help you enroll onto a Medicare-Medicaid program.

Can I use Fortuna to renew Medicaid coverage?

Yes, if Fortuna is available through our partner health plan and providers. Please contact your insurer or provider for more information.

Do I need to come to Fortuna through an insurance company or doctor?

Yes, Fortuna is only available through providers and insurers. Please contact us at info@fortunahealth.com for more information.

Ready to renew or start your coverage?

Take the next step and keep your Medicaid benefits active with Fortuna’s simple, guided process.