Where can I apply for Medicaid?

Medicaid is run by each state, so the process looks a little different depending on where you live. That said, the basics are the same no matter where you are. The easiest place to start is Healthcare.gov, the federal Marketplace.

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What is the easiest way to get Medicaid?#what-is-the-easiest-way-to-get-medicaid

After you go to Healthcare.gov, select your state under “Get Coverage” to see if you should apply on your state’s own website or stay on Healthcare.gov.

If your state uses the federal Marketplace, applying through Healthcare.gov is often the simplest route. A single application screens you for both Medicaid and discounted Marketplace coverage at the same time.

If your state runs its own Medicaid program—like California's Medi-Cal or New York's state marketplace NY State of Health—you'll apply directly on their site instead.

You can also apply in one of these ways:

• By phone: by calling your state Medicaid office or the federal Marketplace helpline
• In person: at a local health or social services office
• By mail: with a printed and completed paper application

Once you pick how to apply, here's what the process looks like:

1. Fill out your application. You'll share basic information about yourself, your household, and your income. You'll also need a few documents handy, like a form of ID, proof of income and residency, and medical paperwork.
2. Submit and wait for a review. A case manager will go through your application and documents. They'll reach out if they need anything else.
3. Get your decision. Most states decide within 45 days. Pregnant people and children are often processed faster. If you're approved, you'll get a Medicaid card or instructions for enrolling in a plan.

If you're denied, you'll get a letter explaining why. You have the right to appeal if you think the decision was wrong.

Where can I get help with Medicaid?#where-can-i-get-help-with-medicaid

You don’t have to go through the Medicaid application process alone. Community health centers, social workers, and local social services offices can help you put together your documents and walk you through the application. If you prefer doing it over the phone, many states let you apply by calling your Medicaid office and completing the application with a representative.

How do I check my Medicaid status?#how-do-i-check-my-medicaid-status

After you apply, you can check your status through the same place you applied. You can also call your state Medicaid office directly to ask about your application.

Keep an eye on your mail and phone. A case manager may reach out with follow-up questions or to let you know their decision. Making sure your contact information is up to date is one of the best ways to avoid delays.

Who gets denied for Medicaid?#who-gets-denied-for-medicaid

Medicaid is designed for people with low incomes, children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities. If you're denied, it's usually because of one of these reasons:

• Your income is above your state's limit
• You don't meet your state's residency requirements
• Your application was missing documents or information
• You didn't respond to a follow-up request in time

Learn more about who is eligible for Medicaid.

Where do I renew Medicaid?#where-do-i-renew-medicaid

When it’s time to renew your Medicaid coverage, your state will mail you a letter, so keeping your contact information current is key.

You'll renew your Medicaid coverage through the same place you applied. If you applied through the federal Marketplace, you can update and renew your coverage there. If you no longer qualify for Medicaid, you'll find out if you qualify for cost savings on a Marketplace plan. You can often find plans that cost less than $10 a month that cover doctor appointments, prescriptions, urgent care, hospital visits, and more.