Demystifying the Buckeye Card: Golden, Directional, or Health Plan?
It's important to differentiate which "Buckeye card" you're interested in, as the term can refer to several distinct programs in Ohio. The official card is the Golden Buckeye Card, offering discounts and managed by the Ohio Department of Aging. However, people sometimes use the name for the Ohio Direction Card (SNAP for food assistance) or a Buckeye Health Plan card (a Medicaid managed care option).
The Golden Buckeye Card: Eligibility and Application
The Golden Buckeye Card helps older adults and individuals with disabilities save money at participating Ohio businesses.
- Eligibility: Ohio residents age 60 or older qualify. Those with a current Ohio Driver's License or State ID card typically receive their card automatically around their 60th birthday. Ohio residents aged 18 to 59 with a disability, as certified by the Social Security Administration, are also eligible.
- Application: If you are over 60 and don't receive the card automatically, or if you are 18-59 with a disability, you must apply in person at a designated sign-up site like a public library or senior center. You'll need proof of age (driver's license, birth certificate) and, if under 60, official disability documentation.
The Ohio Direction Card (SNAP EBT): Food Assistance
The Ohio Direction Card is used for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), providing funds for food purchases.
- Eligibility: Determined by household size, income, and expenses. Generally, gross monthly income must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty guidelines. There are often different, less restrictive income tests and higher asset limits for households with members aged 60 or older or disabled.
- Application: Apply online via the Ohio Benefits website, in person at a County Department of Job and Family Services (JFS) office, or by mail or phone.
Buckeye Health Plan: A Medicaid Option
Buckeye Health Plan is a managed care provider within the Ohio Medicaid system.
- Eligibility: Determined by the Ohio Department of Medicaid based on factors like income, age, disability, and pregnancy. It covers adults with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level, children, pregnant women, and certain aged, blind, or disabled individuals.
- Enrollment: You must first qualify for and enroll in Ohio Medicaid through the Ohio Benefits portal or a county JFS office. After approval, you can select Buckeye Health Plan as your managed care provider.
Comparison of Buckeye Card Programs
| Feature | Golden Buckeye Card | Ohio Direction Card (SNAP) | Buckeye Health Plan (Medicaid) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Type | Discount program for local businesses | Food assistance program (SNAP) | Managed care health insurance plan |
| Purpose | Provides discounts on goods and services | Supplements grocery budget for healthy food | Offers comprehensive health care coverage |
| Main Eligibility | Ohio residents 60+ or 18-59 with a Social Security-defined disability | Based on household income, size, and expenses; special rules for seniors | Based on income, household size, age, pregnancy, or disability; must qualify for Ohio Medicaid |
| Who is Eligible? | Seniors and disabled adults | Low-income individuals and families | Low-income, aged, blind, disabled, pregnant, children |
| How to Apply | Automatic (for most 60+ with state ID) or in-person application at libraries/senior centers | Online via Ohio Benefits, in person, phone, or mail to county JFS office | Enroll in Ohio Medicaid first, then choose Buckeye Health Plan as your provider |
| Website | Ohio Department of Aging | Ohio Benefits | Buckeye Health Plan (as a provider) |
How to Apply for Benefits in Ohio
Applying for the Ohio Direction Card (SNAP) or Medicaid generally follows these steps:
- Start Online: Begin your application on the official Ohio Benefits website. You'll need to create an OHID account.
- Gather Documents: Collect proof of identity, Social Security numbers for your household, income verification, and proof of residency. For SNAP, gather documentation of expenses like shelter, utilities, and medical costs.
- Complete and Submit: Fill out the application online, or print and submit it via mail, fax, or in person at a county JFS office.
- Interview: Typically, an interview is required for SNAP and Medicaid and may be conducted by phone.
- Provide Verifications: Submit any additional documents requested by your caseworker to verify your information.
Conclusion
Clarifying which "Buckeye card" you need is crucial for determining eligibility and accessing benefits. The Golden Buckeye Card offers discounts for eligible seniors and disabled adults. The Ohio Direction Card provides food assistance through SNAP, and Buckeye Health Plan is a Medicaid managed care option. By understanding the specific program and application process, eligible Ohioans can receive the support they need for better health and financial stability.
