How to apply for Medicaid in 3 steps

Applying for Medicaid can be confusing, since every state runs the program differently (and the program may go by another name depending on your state).

Some states use the federal Healthcare.gov website, while others use their own state Medicaid website and applications.

But Medicaid can be essential for qualifying Americans with low incomes, children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities who need affordable health coverage. Here’s how to apply for Medicaid in three basic steps.

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Step 1: Choose how you want to apply#step-1-choose-how-you-want-to-apply

There are different ways to apply for Medicaid coverage, and each state processes Medicaid applications differently.

If you’re not sure where to start, go to Healthcare.gov, type in or select your state, and it will redirect you to your state’s Medicaid information—but generally you have a few different options.

Through Healthcare.gov#through-healthcaregov

If your state uses the federal Marketplace, you can apply online at Healthcare.gov. This is often the easiest way to apply because it screens you for both Medicaid and Marketplace (discounted) coverage in one application.

Through your state Medicaid office#through-your-state-medicaid-office

Some states run their own Medicaid program websites and don’t use Healthcare.gov. You’ll apply directly on your state’s Medicaid or health department site. For example, California uses Medi-Cal’s portal, and New York has its own state health care marketplace.

By phone or in person#by-phone-or-in-person

In addition to applying online through Healthcare.gov or your state’s Medicaid website, most states also offer other ways to apply:

• By phone: Many states let you apply by calling your Medicaid office or the federal Marketplace helpline. You can fill out your Medicaid application with the help of a representative.
• In person: Local Medicaid offices, social services departments, or community health centers can help you apply for Medicaid face to face. This can be useful if you need help getting your documents together.
• By mail: Some states allow you to print the Medicaid application, fill it out, and mail it to your local Medicaid office.

Step 2: Fill out an application and upload documents#step-2-fill-out-an-application-and-upload-documents

While each state’s Medicaid application looks a little different, the process usually follows these steps:

1. Create an account on Healthcare.gov or your state’s Medicaid site or get a physical copy of the application at a local government office or print a copy from the website
2. Fill out your application with information about yourself, your household, and your income
3. Upload or mail documents to prove your eligibility (like pay stubs, ID, or medical paperwork)
4. Answer any follow-up questions if your state needs more information
5. Wait for your case manager’s review, they’ll let you know if there are any additional steps

You’ll probably need to provide the following kinds of documents:

• Proof of identity: Driver’s license, birth certificate, or passport
• Proof of income: Pay stubs, W-2s, or benefit letters (like Social Security)
• Proof of assets: Bank statements, investment accounts, property records (if applicable)
• Proof of residency: Lease, utility bill, or official mail showing your address
• Immigration or citizenship documents: Green card, naturalization papers, or work permit (if applicable)
• Medical paperwork: For people applying based on disability or medical status

Step 3: Attend your interview and wait for a decision#step-3-attend-your-interview-and-wait-for-a-decision

Once you hit “submit” on your Medicaid application, here’s what usually happens:

• You may have an interview. Some states (but not all) schedule a short phone or in-person interview. This is your chance to answer questions or provide missing information.
• Your Medicaid application will be reviewed. A case manager will review your Medicaid application and documents. They might call or send a letter if they need more information.
• You’ll get a decision notice. Most states must decide whether or not you qualify for Medicaid within 45 days. Pregnant people and children are often processed faster.
• You’ll receive your Medicaid card and enroll in a plan. If approved, you’ll get a Medicaid card or instructions for enrolling in a managed care plan and using Medicaid services.
• Some coverage may apply retroactively. Some states will cover medical bills from up to three months before you applied for Medicaid, though this rule is changing under new laws.

If you’re denied, you’ll get a letter explaining why. You usually have the right to appeal or request a fair hearing if you think the decision is wrong.