Pennsylvania’s Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD) program helps eligible people with disabilities obtain or keep health coverage while working. The program is designed for adults whose employment income may make other Medical Assistance categories unavailable, but who still need affordable health care.
MAWD can cover doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications, behavioral health services, and other benefits available through Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program. Participants generally pay a monthly premium based on countable income, while keeping the ability to work and pursue greater financial independence.
Eligibility and income thresholds can change, so applicants should verify current rules through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). A careful application, complete documentation, and prompt responses to requests for information can help prevent delays.
MAWD is generally available to Pennsylvania residents between ages 16 and 64 who have a qualifying physical or mental disability and are engaged in paid work. Employment may be part-time or full-time, and applicants do not necessarily need to stop working or reduce their hours to qualify.
Applicants must also meet financial requirements. DHS considers income and available resources under MAWD rules, including certain deductions and disregards. The program commonly permits resources up to $10,000, but applicants should confirm current limits and how specific assets are treated.
A disability determination from the Social Security Administration may support an application. If an applicant does not have an existing disability decision, DHS may request medical records or arrange an evaluation to determine whether the condition meets program standards.
Having information ready can make the enrollment process easier. Applicants should collect proof of identity, Pennsylvania residency, Social Security numbers, immigration or citizenship documentation when applicable, and recent pay statements. Self-employed workers may need business income and expense records.
Medical documentation can also be important. Useful records may include physician statements, diagnoses, treatment histories, medication lists, and information about how a condition affects daily activities or employment. DHS may ask for additional evidence after reviewing the application.
Financial records should reflect all relevant income, including wages, self-employment earnings, Social Security benefits, pensions, or other payments. For help organizing household finances, residents may also find student loan forgiveness options useful when reviewing their broader public-benefit and debt-relief resources.
The most convenient method for many applicants is the COMPASS website, Pennsylvania’s online benefits portal. An applicant can create an account, complete the Medical Assistance application, upload documents, and monitor notices online. Applications may also be submitted by mail or in person through a local County Assistance Office.
DHS may contact an applicant for clarification, missing paperwork, employment verification, or medical information. Respond by the deadline shown in each notice and keep copies of forms, uploaded records, and correspondence. If an application is denied, the notice should explain appeal rights and the deadline for requesting a fair hearing.
Applicants who need assistance can call the DHS customer service line at 1-877-395-8930. Philadelphia residents use 215-560-7226. A county assistance office, disability advocate, or benefits counselor may also help explain the process without making the eligibility decision.
| Application Area | Information To Prepare | What It Helps DHS Determine |
|---|---|---|
| Identity and residency | Identification, address, Social Security number | Pennsylvania residency and program records |
| Employment | Employer details, pay stubs, work schedule | Current earned income and work status |
| Disability | Medical records, provider information, treatment history | Whether the disability requirement is met |
| Household finances | Benefit statements, bank records, self-employment records | Countable income and resources |
| Health coverage | Current insurance information, if any | Coordination with other coverage |
MAWD participants generally pay a monthly premium tied to countable income. The amount is commonly calculated as a percentage of income, although the exact calculation depends on the applicant’s circumstances and current DHS rules. The premium must be paid on time to keep coverage active.
MAWD coverage can include primary care, specialists, hospital services, prescription drugs, behavioral health treatment, and medical equipment. The specific benefits and managed-care arrangements may depend on the participant’s coverage category and selected plan.
Report changes in employment, income, address, household circumstances, or other insurance promptly. Annual or periodic renewals may require updated documents. Failing to complete a renewal can result in a closure even when the person still meets the eligibility requirements.
One frequent issue is submitting an application without enough evidence of work or disability. Pay statements should be current, and medical records should clearly identify providers and conditions. If a document is unavailable, explain why and ask DHS what substitute evidence may be accepted.
Another problem is overlooking notices delivered through COMPASS or the mail. Read every notice carefully, especially requests with deadlines. Keep a calendar for verification dates, premium payments, renewals, and appeal periods.
MAWD is separate from other assistance programs, so eligibility for one benefit does not automatically establish eligibility for another. A person may also qualify for food assistance, housing support, transportation programs, or disability-related services. For other state resources, residents can review fishing license information for veterans and people with disabilities.
Residents of Pennsylvania’s 187th Legislative District who need help locating government resources may contact Representative Gary W. Day’s office for constituent-service information. Begin with the DHS application process, keep your records organized, and seek assistance promptly if a notice or eligibility decision is unclear.