How to Apply for Medicaid, and What Happens Next

You can apply for Medicaid through your state Medicaid agency or through HealthCare.gov. You can apply any time of year, it's free, and the state will review your application in a few weeks.

Who can get Medicaid

Medicaid is free or low-cost health coverage run by each state with federal funding. Who qualifies depends on your income, household size, and whether your state expanded Medicaid.

In states that expanded Medicaid, most adults aged 19–64 qualify if their income is up to 138% of the federal poverty level. Medicaid also covers children, pregnant people, older adults, and people with disabilities—though the income limits are different for each group.

Income limits vary by state. Check your state's rules to see if you might qualify. (This information may help you get started: take our screener or find your state's Medicaid page.)

Federal poverty guidelines for 2026

These are the income limits used to determine Medicaid eligibility in most states. They may vary by state, so always check your state's rules.

These figures come from Medicaid.gov and reflect state decisions as of December 1, 2023. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits.

How to apply for Medicaid

Step 1: Choose where to apply

You have two main options:

• Through your state Medicaid agency. Contact your state's Medicaid office directly. Your state's website will have an application and instructions. Find your state's Medicaid page here.
• Through HealthCare.gov. Go to HealthCare.gov, apply online, and your application will be sent to your state Medicaid agency for review.

Both paths lead to the same place. Choose whichever is easier for you.

Step 2: Gather what you need

Have these documents ready before you apply:

• Proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements)
• Proof of citizenship or immigration status
• Your Social Security number
• Information about anyone in your household
• Information about current health coverage, if you have it

Requirements may vary slightly by state. Check your state's Medicaid website to see exactly what they need.

Step 3: Fill out and submit your application

Whether you apply online or by mail, you'll fill out a form with basic information about yourself and your household. The form asks about income, household size, citizenship status, and current coverage. Be honest and accurate on every question.

If applying online, submit it through the website. If applying by mail or in person, get the address from your state Medicaid office and mail it in.

Step 4: Wait for a decision

The state will review your application. They may ask for more information if they need it. You'll get a letter saying whether you qualify.

What happens next

The state usually takes a few weeks to review your application and send you a decision.

If you're approved: You'll get a Medicaid card in the mail. Your coverage typically starts on a date set by your state. You can use your card right away to see doctors, go to the emergency room, get prescriptions filled, and more. Medicaid is free or low-cost depending on your income.

If you're denied: The letter will explain why. You usually have the right to ask for a hearing or appeal. Your state Medicaid office can tell you how to do that.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Incomplete or inaccurate information. Double-check that all answers on your form are correct and honest. Mistakes can delay your application or cause it to be denied.
• Missing documents. Submit all required documents with your application. If the state needs more information, respond quickly to their requests.
• Not reporting changes. After you're approved, tell your state if your income, household, or address changes. Keeping your information current helps your coverage stay active.
• Missing your state's deadline for appeal. If you're denied, act quickly. Your state will give you a deadline to request a hearing in the denial letter.

Related help

Once you have Medicaid, you may qualify for other help too. Browse all programs or take our screener to see what else you might be eligible for.

If you have questions, contact us or check our glossary for terms you don't know.

Applying for Medicaid is free. Only your state Medicaid agency can decide if you qualify.

Summary

Apply for Medicaid through your state or HealthCare.gov any time of year. Gather proof of income and citizenship, fill out the form carefully, and submit it. You'll get a decision in a few weeks. If approved, your coverage starts soon and your card will arrive by mail.