Skip to main content
An official website of the United States government
Building icon
The .gov means it's official
Federal government websites always use a .gov or .mil domain. Before sharing sensitive information online, make sure you’re on a .gov or .mil site by inspecting your browser’s address (or “location”) bar.
Lock icon
This site is also protected by an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate that’s been signed by the U.S. government. The https:// means all transmitted data is encrypted — in other words, any information or browsing history that you provide is transmitted securely.
Archived News Article: Information may be out of date
October 30, 2019

How to Apply for Medicaid in your State

How to Apply for Medicaid in your State
How to Apply for Medicaid in your State

If you are looking for health insurance that fits both your needs and your budget, Medicaid may be able to help. Medicaid provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible individuals, such as low-income families, pregnant women, and individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income. Visit the Healthcare and Medical Assistance category on Benefits.gov to find your state’s Medicaid Program, check if you may be eligible, and search for information on how to apply for Medicaid.

What does Medicaid cover?

Medicaid Programs are administered at the state level and coverage and eligibility requirements vary from state to state. According to Medicaid.gov, all states are required to provide certain services including inpatient and outpatient hospital services, laboratory and x-ray services, physician services, nursing facility services, and more. States have the choice to cover other optional services, such as prescription drugs, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and dental services. Find out what services your state’s Medicaid Program covers by contacting your state Medicaid agency.

According to Medicaid.gov, Medicaid is the largest source of health coverage in the U.S., providing critical assistance to over 65 million individuals as of May 2019. While states are required to cover certain groups of individuals, other factors may impact your eligibility for Medicaid, such as income, household size, and disability. Visit Healthcare.gov to access a free savings tool to find out if you qualify for Medicaid based on income alone.

How do I apply for Medicaid?

You can apply for Medicaid and enroll any time of year. Once you are ready to apply, contact your state Medicaid agency for more information or submit an application through the Health Insurance Marketplace on Healthcare.gov. Once enrolled, your state can provide a list of approved health care providers you can contact for services.

What if I am not eligible for Medicaid?

If you don’t qualify for Medicaid, Benefits.gov wants you to know you still have options. Since 2002, Benefits.gov has provided millions of citizens with information on over 1,000 government benefits. Fill out our Benefit Finder questionnaire to find out what other benefits you may be eligible to receive. While we don’t accept benefit applications on Benefits.gov, we can help you find where to apply.

 

Compass logo

Compass Newsletter

Stay connected for important news and updates on federal benefits you may be eligible to receive.