How to apply for Medicaid

Who can get Medicaid

Income for adults in expansion states

In states that expanded Medicaid, adults 19 to 64 can usually qualify with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL). For 2026 that is:

For the 48 states and Washington, DC. Alaska and Hawaii are higher. Children and pregnant people can qualify with higher income in every state. If you are close, apply anyway.

States that have not expanded Medicaid

Ten states have not expanded Medicaid: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin and Wyoming. There, the rules for adults are much stricter, and adults without children often cannot get Medicaid on income alone. Children, pregnant people, older adults and people with disabilities can still qualify. If your income is above the poverty level, you may be able to get lower-cost coverage on HealthCare.gov.

New work rules from January 2027

Starting by January 1, 2027, adults 19 to 64 who get Medicaid through the expansion will need to show 80 hours a month of work, school, job training or community service to keep their coverage. Some people do not have to, for example people who are pregnant, people who are medically frail, and parents or caregivers of a child under 14. Your state will tell you how to report.

Citizenship, immigration and mixed-status families

Only the people who are applying for coverage need to show U.S. citizenship or an eligible immigration status and give a Social Security number. Family members who are not applying do not have to share their immigration status or Social Security number. You may still be asked about their income if they are in your tax household.

Children who are U.S. citizens can get Medicaid or CHIP (the Children's Health Insurance Program) even when their parents cannot. Emergency Medicaid can pay for emergency care for people who meet every rule except immigration.

What to bring

Gather what you can for each person who is applying.

• Photo ID for each adult who is applying
• Social Security number for each person who is applying (not for family members who are not applying)
• Proof of citizenship or immigration status for each person who is applying: a birth certificate, passport or immigration papers
• Proof of income: recent pay stubs, a benefit letter or your last tax return
• Proof of where you live: a lease, a utility bill or mail with your address
• Any health insurance cards you have now, including from a job

Make a printable Medicaid checklist

How to apply, step by step

1. Start at HealthCare.gov or your state

   HealthCare.gov checks whether you qualify for Medicaid or CHIP and sends your application to your state. You can also apply online, by phone or in person with your state Medicaid office. You can apply any time of year.

2. List your household

   This is usually the people you file taxes with. Include your children: kids often qualify for Medicaid or CHIP even when parents do not.

3. Report your income

   Give your current monthly income before taxes for everyone in your household.

4. Send papers and watch your mail

   The state may ask for more papers. Send them by the date on the letter. You will get a letter with the decision.

5. Choose a health plan and doctor

   Many states use health plans to run Medicaid. Compare which doctors and clinics each plan uses.

6. Keep your coverage

   Renew when your state asks, and update your address if you move. Starting in 2027, adults covered through the expansion will have to renew every 6 months.

Special situations

Common questions