Medicaid
Medicaid provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly, and people with disabilities.
About This Program
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to over 80 million Americans. Each state administers its own Medicaid program within federal guidelines, meaning eligibility and benefits vary by state. The Affordable Care Act expanded Medicaid eligibility in participating states to cover adults with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level.
Eligibility Requirements
The following criteria must be met to qualify for this program.
For a single adult in 2024, this is approximately $20,783/year. Non-expansion states have more restrictive criteria.
Must be a resident of the state where you are applying.
Qualified immigrants include lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.
Document Checklist
0/5 gatheredGather these documents before starting your application.
Required
Optional / If Applicable
Application Walkthrough
Follow these steps to complete your application. Pay attention to friction-point tips.
Check your state's eligibility
10 minutesVisit healthcare.gov or your state Medicaid office website to check if your income qualifies.
40 states + DC have expanded Medicaid. If your state hasn't expanded, you may fall in the 'coverage gap' — check if you qualify for marketplace subsidies instead.
Apply through HealthCare.gov or your state
30 minutesApply online at healthcare.gov, through your state's Medicaid portal, by phone, or in person.
If you apply through healthcare.gov, the system will automatically check if you qualify for Medicaid before showing marketplace plans. This is the fastest path in most states.
Provide requested documentation
15 minutesYour state may request additional documents to verify your eligibility.
States can verify income electronically in many cases. If asked for documents, respond within 10 days — delays can result in denial that requires a full new application.
Receive your determination
Waiting periodStates must process applications within 45 days (90 days for disability-based applications).