Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans, including some low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Show Some states have expanded their Medicaid programs to cover all people below certain income levels.
Even if you don't qualify for Medicaid based on income, you should apply. You may qualify for your state's program, especially if you have children, are pregnant, or have a disability. You can apply for Medicaid any time of year — Medicaid and CHIP do not have Open Enrollment Periods. Note: Medicaid & CHIP program names vary. Learn what they’re called in your state. Apply for Medicaid and CHIP 2 ways1. Through the Health Insurance Marketplace®Fill out an application through the Health Insurance Marketplace®.
Create an account to start a Marketplace application. 2. Through your state Medicaid agencyYou can also apply directly to your state Medicaid agency. Select your state below for your Medicaid agency’s contact information. Pick your state to start your application for health coverage. Medicaid & CHIP basicsMedicaid basics
Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) basics
More answers: Medicaid & CHIPWhat’s the income level to qualify for Medicaid? It depends on the state you live in. If your state has expanded Medicaid: You can qualify based on income alone. See if you’ll qualify.If your state has not expanded Medicaid: You may qualify based on your state’s existing rules. These vary from state to state and may take into account income, household size, family status (like pregnancy or caring for young children), disability, age, and other factors. Because each state and each family situation is different, there’s no way to find out if you qualify without filling out an application.If my income’s too high for Medicaid, can I buy insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace®? Generally yes, as long as you qualify to use the Marketplace. Most people whose incomes are just above the level to qualify for Medicaid can pay very low premiums and out-of-pocket costs for private health insurance through the Marketplace. Find out if you’ll qualify for savings. What if I'm eligible for Medicaid, but want to buy an insurance plan in the Marketplace instead? A Marketplace insurance plan would cost more than Medicaid and usually wouldn’t offer more coverage or benefits. If you qualify for Medicaid, you aren’t eligible for savings on Marketplace insurance. You’d have to pay full price for a plan. What if I have Medicaid now, but I have only limited benefits? Some limited types of Medicaid coverage pay only for:
If you have limited Medicaid coverage, you can fill out an application through the Health Insurance Marketplace® and find out if you qualify for comprehensive coverage through either Medicaid or a Marketplace insurance plan with savings based on your income. Important: If you have limited Medicaid coverage, when you fill out a Marketplace application and are asked if you have coverage now, don’t check the box saying you have Medicaid. Check “None of the above” instead.What rules apply to former foster children and Medicaid? All states must offer former foster children uninterrupted Medicaid coverage until they turn 26, as long as at least one of the following is true:
Note: If the foster child moves to a new state, the new state’s Medicaid agency may not provide coverage. Check with your state Medicaid agency to learn more. What if I’ve been turned down for Medicaid or CHIP coverage? You may be able to buy a private health plan through the Marketplace instead. You may qualify for savings based on your income through a premium tax credit and savings on out-of-pocket costs. Many people can find plans for $75 or less per month. If your state Medicaid or CHIP agency said you’re not eligible
What is Medicaid USA?Medicaid provides health coverage to millions of Americans, including eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults and people with disabilities. Medicaid is administered by states, according to federal requirements. The program is funded jointly by states and the federal government.
What is defined as Medicare?Medicare is the federal government program that provides health care coverage (health insurance) if you are 65+, under 65 and receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for a certain amount of time, or under 65 and with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).
|