About HBWD

Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) is Illinois’ Medicaid Buy-In program authorized under the federal Ticket to Work - Work Incentives Improvement Act (TWWIIA). Currently, several other states have some version of a Medicaid Buy-In program allowing working individuals living with a disability to become insured with a medical card.

In Illinois, the HBWD program allows individuals with income up to 350% of the federal poverty level to pay a monthly premium based on their income to receive a Medical card.

Eligibility for Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities does not effect eligibility for Personal Care Assistants through the Department of Human Services home and community based waivers.

You may also apply for an HBWD card to cover medical bills for up to three months prior to the month of application. To receive coverage for the prior months, you must pay premiums for the prior months.