Medicaid Eligibility Calculators logoMedicaid Eligibility Calculators

Free Medicaid Income Calculator

Medicaid Eligibility Calculator

Use our free Medicaid calculator to check if you qualify for Medicaid or CHIP in your state, and see the exact income limit for your household.

Check your eligibility

Takes about a minute. Free and private.

This is an unofficial estimate, not an application. We are not affiliated with any government agency.

Medicaid eligibility tools and guides

Medicaid help for low income families

Rules differ by state and by person, which makes Medicaid hard to figure out. Our free Medicaid calculator can help you:

  • Estimate your eligibility in about a minute
  • See the income limit used for your household
  • Compare age 19–64, child and pregnancy limits
  • Find your state agency's phone and website
Check my eligibility
Medicaid for low income families: father pushing his baby in a stroller

How the estimate works

Medicaid rules depend on who you are and where you live, so the calculator applies a different test to each group.

  • Calculate Medicaid eligibility online: father holding his newborn

    People under 65

    138% of the poverty level in expansion states. In the 10 states without expansion, most people aged 19–64 without children aren't covered regardless of income, and parents face state-set limits.

  • Medicaid calculators for pregnancy: expecting mother at home

    Pregnant people and children

    Every state must cover at least 138% of poverty. Many go higher, so a "possibly" result above that line is worth following up.

  • Medicaid eligibility calculator for seniors: older woman in an armchair

    Age 65+ and disabilities

    We compare income to the SSI benchmark ($1,014 a month for one person, $1,511 for a couple) and assets to common limits. States vary widely.

Medicaid at a glance, 2026

  • 40 states and DCJurisdictions with expansion
  • 10States without expansion
  • 138% FPLLimit for ages 19–64 in expansion states
  • $15,960Poverty level, one person
  • $33,000Poverty level, family of four
  • Up to 45 days, 90 for disabilityDecision time
  • Year-roundEnrollment period
  • $994 a month for one personSSI federal rate
  • By January 1, 2027Work requirement start

What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a public health coverage program for people with limited income, created in 1965 under Title XIX of the Social Security Act. The federal government and states pay for it together. Federal law sets minimum rules, and each state runs its own program, so your limits, benefits and application process depend on where you live.

Most enrollees pay no monthly premium and little or nothing at the doctor. Unlike Marketplace plans, Medicaid has no open enrollment period, so you can apply on any day of the year.

Medicaid goes by different names

You may see your state's program under another name, such as Medi-Cal in California, MassHealth in Massachusetts, AHCCCS in Arizona, TennCare in Tennessee, SoonerCare in Oklahoma, HUSKY Health in Connecticut, MaineCare in Maine or BadgerCare Plus in Wisconsin. They are all part of Medicaid.

Medicaid vs. Medicare

MedicaidMedicare
Based onIncome and groupAge 65+, or certain disabilities
Run byStates, with federal rulesFederal government
Typical costLittle or nonePremiums and cost-sharing
Long-term nursing home careCovered if eligibleLimited short-term stays
Can you have both?Yes, this is called dual eligibility

People who receive SSDI generally become eligible for Medicare after 24 months of benefits. Medicaid may help during that wait.

Medicaid vs. CHIP

CHIP covers children in families whose income is too high for Medicaid. The same application usually checks you for both, so you don't have to know which one fits. Some states charge small CHIP premiums.

Medicaid eligibility calculator for seniors: older woman in an armchair

2026 income limits snapshot for a family of four

GroupTypical rangeYearly income
People aged 19–64 in expansion states138% FPL$45,540
Parents in non-expansion states17%–100% FPL, varies$5,610–$33,000
Pregnancy138%–324% FPL$45,540–$106,920
Children, Medicaid and CHIPUp to about 405% FPLUp to about $133,650

Includes the 5% disregard. Based on Medicaid.gov's published levels and the 2026 poverty guidelines for the contiguous states.

What is the Medicaid eligibility calculator?

This free Medicaid eligibility calculator gives you a quick answer to one question: do I qualify for Medicaid? It uses your state, household size, income and situation to estimate your eligibility, then shows the exact income limit it used and how far above or below it you are.

Many Medicaid calculators give only a yes or no. Ours also shows the number behind the result, so you can see if you're close to the line. It works as a Medicaid income calculator, a Medicaid eligibility checker and a starting point for your application. If you prefer state-specific details, choose your state's Medicaid calculator for its limits, agency website and phone number.

How to use this Medicaid calculator

  1. Choose your state. Medicaid rules are set state by state within federal rules.
  2. Say who needs coverage. People, parents, pregnant people, children, seniors and people with disabilities each have different tests.
  3. Enter your household size. Usually this is your tax household. Count each expected baby if you're pregnant.
  4. Enter your income. Use your income before taxes, monthly or yearly.
  5. Add assets if asked. Seniors and people with disabilities can enter them for a closer estimate.
  6. Check your estimate. You'll see "likely", "possibly" or "unlikely", plus your next step.
Medicaid income calculator: pregnant woman in a clinic waiting room
Not sure if you qualify?Get a free estimate in about a minute. No sign-up needed.
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Medicaid eligibility requirements

To qualify for Medicaid, you generally need to meet both non-financial and financial requirements.

  • Residency: you must live in the state where you apply.
  • Citizenship or immigration status: US citizens and certain qualified immigrants can qualify. See below for more.
  • Income: your household income must be within the limit for your group.
  • Group: you must fit a covered group, such as children, pregnant people, parents, expansion enrollees, seniors or people with disabilities.
  • Assets: these usually matter only for seniors, people with disabilities and long-term care.
Medicaid eligibility checker: older woman receiving paperwork at a pharmacy

Who qualifies for Medicaid in 2026?

Low-income people aged 19–64

In the 41 expansion jurisdictions, including DC, people aged 19 to 64 can generally qualify with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level. In most other states, people without children can't qualify on income alone.

Parents and caretakers

Every state covers some parents, but limits vary a lot. In non-expansion states, they can be far below the poverty line. Texas's published level, for example, is 12% of poverty before the disregard, while Connecticut's is 155%.

Pregnant people

Pregnancy limits run from about 133% to 319% of poverty before the disregard, depending on the state. Coverage covers prenatal care and delivery, and nearly all states now continue it for 12 months after birth. See baby items with Medicaid.

Children and teens

Between Medicaid and CHIP, published limits commonly reach 200% to 300% of poverty and can reach about 400%. Children get a strong benefit called EPSDT, which covers medically necessary care, including eyeglasses.

Seniors 65 and older

Many states tie eligibility to the SSI benefit, which is $994 a month for one person and $1,491 for a couple in 2026, plus a $20 general income disregard. Others use higher limits. Read our guide to Medicaid for seniors.

People with disabilities

In most states, people who receive SSI automatically or easily qualify for Medicaid. Some states run their own tests, and many offer buy-in programs that let working people with disabilities pay for coverage.

Medicaid calculator for families: mother and young child at a playground

Medicaid income limits 2026 and how they're calculated

Medicaid income limits are a percentage of the federal poverty level (FPL), which HHS updates each year. Here's how a percentage becomes a dollar figure. Take one person in the contiguous states: $15,960 × 138% = $22,025 a year, or $1,835 a month. This table shows the common levels for 2026.

Household100% FPL133% FPL138% FPL150% FPL200% FPL250% FPL
1$15,960$21,227$22,025$23,940$31,920$39,900
2$21,640$28,781$29,863$32,460$43,280$54,100
3$27,320$36,336$37,702$40,980$54,640$68,300
4$33,000$43,890$45,540$49,500$66,000$82,500
5$38,680$51,444$53,378$58,020$77,360$96,700
6$44,360$58,999$61,217$66,540$88,720$110,900
7$50,040$66,553$69,055$75,060$100,080$125,100
8$55,720$74,108$76,894$83,580$111,440$139,300

Yearly dollars from the 2026 HHS poverty guidelines for the 48 contiguous states and DC. Divide by 12 for a monthly figure.

Need more detail? See Medicaid income limits by state for ages 19–64, parents, children and pregnancy.

What income counts for Medicaid?

Most people are measured with Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). It's based on your federal tax return, with a few additions.

Income typeUnder MAGI
Wages, salaries and tipsCounted
Self-employment profitCounted after expenses
UnemploymentCounted
Social Security, including the untaxed partCounted
Pensions and retirement withdrawalsGenerally counted
SSINot counted
SNAP and housing assistanceNot counted
Child support receivedNot counted
Gifts and most scholarships for tuitionNot counted

Seniors and people with disabilities are usually measured under different, SSI-based rules.

Medicaid asset limits

Most people aged 19–64, children and pregnant people don't face an asset test. If you qualify through age or disability, there's often a limit on countable assets, commonly $2,000 for one person or $3,000 for a couple. A few states have higher limits or none for some programs.

  • Usually counted: cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds and second properties.
  • Usually exempt: your home, one vehicle, household goods and some burial funds.

Medicaid expansion states and non-expansion states

Whether your state adopted the Affordable Care Act's expansion matters most for people under 65.

Not expanded (10 states): Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin and Wyoming. Expanded: the other 40 states and DC.

In non-expansion states, some people aged 19–64 fall into the coverage gap: too much income for Medicaid but too little for Marketplace tax credits. If that's you, look at community health centers, which charge on a sliding scale, and recheck whenever your income, family or health changes.

Not sure if you qualify?Get a free estimate in about a minute. No sign-up needed.
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What does Medicaid cover?

Federal law requires every state to cover certain benefits, and states can add others.

Mandatory benefitsOptional benefits (vary by state)
Hospital care, inpatient and outpatientPrescription medications (all states currently cover them)
Doctor servicesDental care for people 21 and older
Lab tests and X-raysEyeglasses for people 21 and older
Nursing facility servicesPhysical, occupational and speech therapy
Home health servicesPersonal care
EPSDT services for childrenCase management
Family planningHospice
Transportation to medical careHome and community-based services
Medicaid eligibility checkers for families: mother and toddler on a couch

How to apply for Medicaid

You can apply at any time of year. There's no enrollment period, and our step-by-step application guide covers it in more detail.

  1. Find your agency on your state page.
  2. Gather proof of identity, address, income and household.
  3. Apply online, by phone, by mail, in person or through HealthCare.gov.
  4. Answer any requests for more information before the deadline.
  5. Watch for your decision, usually within 45 days, or 90 days if it depends on disability.

Medicaid work requirements

Under federal law, most expansion enrollees aged 19 to 64 must complete 80 hours a month of work, community service, education or other qualifying activities starting no later than January 1, 2027. Some states may begin earlier. Exemptions include people who are pregnant, medically frail, caring for young children or meeting certain other conditions. Georgia's Pathways program already has its own rules.

Medicaid calculators for pregnancy: expecting mother at home

Renewing your Medicaid

You need to renew to keep coverage, usually every 12 months. Most expansion enrollees move to six-month checks for renewals after December 31, 2026. Update your address, and answer every letter. If you lost coverage over paperwork, ask your state how to fix it quickly.

Medicaid and Medicare: dual eligibility

If you have Medicare and limited income, Medicaid may pay your premiums and cost-sharing through a Medicare Savings Program. Limits differ from regular Medicaid, so it's worth asking even if the calculator shows you're over.

Long-term care and Medicaid planning

Medicaid is a major payer of nursing home care and also pays for home care through waivers. Long-term care programs have their own rules. Many states use an income limit of three times the SSI rate, which is $2,982 a month in 2026, and some allow special trusts for those above it. States also review asset transfers made in the past 60 months. Get advice from an elder law attorney before moving assets.

Medicaid for immigrants

Lawful permanent residents often have to wait five years. States can cover lawfully residing children and pregnant people sooner. Federal law narrowed eligible immigrant categories from October 2026, and some states use their own funds for wider coverage. Emergency Medicaid can pay for emergency treatment for those who'd otherwise qualify, regardless of status. Check with your state or a local legal aid group.

If your Medicaid application is denied

A denial notice has to explain why and how to appeal. Common reasons include missing paperwork and income above the limit. You usually have up to 90 days to request a fair hearing, and you can also reapply if things change. If you're over the limit, compare Marketplace plans, which may have savings.

Other help for Medicaid members

Medicaid enrollment can open doors to other programs. Read our guides to free phones, free internet, free tablets, free laptops, free food, free meals, free diapers, free car seats and rideshare rides.

Check Medicaid eligibility for your situation

Medicaid income calculator

Enter your monthly or yearly income to compare it with the 2026 limit for your household. See Medicaid income limits by state.

Medicaid eligibility checker for ages 19–64

Single people and parents can check the 138% limit in expansion states, or their state's rules in the others. Read who qualifies.

Medicaid calculator for pregnancy

Pregnancy limits are higher than other limits for ages 19–64 in most states. See our pregnancy and children guide.

Medicaid and CHIP calculator for children

Children can qualify at higher incomes than parents. Learn about CHIP eligibility.

Medicaid calculator for seniors

Check common income and asset benchmarks for people 65 and older. See Medicaid for seniors and asset limits.

Medicaid for people with disabilities

SSI and other disability routes have their own rules. Choose "Person with a disability" in the calculator for an estimate.

4 ways to apply for Medicaid

Online

Usually the quickest route. Use your state's portal or HealthCare.gov, upload documents and check your status.

By phone

Call your agency using the state contact table. It's a good choice if you have questions or need language help.

By mail

Ask for a paper application, or download one. Keep copies, and send it in a way you can track.

In person

Visit your local Medicaid or social services office. Hospitals, community health centers and local navigators may also help you for free.

Not sure if you qualify?Get a free estimate in about a minute. No sign-up needed.
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What happens after you apply: a timeline

StageWhat to expect
Day you applyNote your application date, as it can affect when coverage starts.
First few weeksThe state checks records and may ask for documents or an interview.
Within 45 daysMost decisions arrive, or within 90 days for disability cases.
After approvalYou get a card, and in many states you choose a health plan.
Up to 90 days after a denialYou can usually request a fair hearing.
Every 6 to 12 monthsYou renew, so reply to any notices you receive.

Medicaid documents checklist

  • Identity and address: driver's license or state ID, passport, plus a lease or utility bill.
  • Income: recent pay stubs, your latest tax return, self-employment records, and unemployment or Social Security letters.
  • Household: Social Security numbers if available, birth dates, and guardianship or foster papers if relevant.
  • Immigration status: the documents you hold, if you are not a citizen.
  • Disability: an SSA award letter or doctor's records.
  • Assets, for seniors and disability routes: bank statements, deeds, vehicle titles and retirement accounts.
  • Other insurance: any current coverage, including employer or Medicare cards.

Missing something? It's usually better to apply and then send documents when asked, because your application date can affect how early coverage starts. Just don't miss the deadline in the notice.

Calculate Medicaid eligibility online: father holding his newborn

Key Medicaid changes in 2026 and 2027

  • New poverty guidelines: the 2026 figure is $15,960 for one person and $33,000 for four in the contiguous states.
  • Work requirements: states must start them for most expansion enrollees by January 1, 2027, and may start earlier.
  • More frequent renewals: most expansion enrollees move to six-month eligibility checks for renewals after December 31, 2026.
  • Shorter retroactive coverage: from 2027, it shrinks from up to three months to one month for expansion enrollees and two months for most others.
  • Immigrant eligibility: federal law narrowed eligible categories from October 2026.
  • Back to normal renewals: pandemic-era continuous coverage ended in 2023. If you lost coverage, you can reapply at any time.
Medicaid for low income families: father pushing his baby in a stroller

Tips for a successful Medicaid application

  1. Apply as early as you can. There's no deadline, but waiting can leave bills uncovered.
  2. Check how your household counts. A student or other relative may count if they're on your tax return.
  3. Report changes. A job loss, new baby, move or new diagnosis can change your result, for better or worse.
  4. Ask about fast-track options. Many states and hospitals offer presumptive eligibility, which gives temporary coverage, especially during pregnancy.
  5. Keep copies. Save your application, notices and confirmation numbers.
  6. Open your mail. Most lost coverage starts with a missed letter. Keep your address up to date.
  7. Appeal when it makes sense. Free help is available through LawHelp.org.
  8. Check your children separately. Kids often qualify even when parents don't.

What to do if you don't qualify

  • Compare plans at HealthCare.gov. Losing Medicaid or other major life changes can open a special enrollment period.
  • Use a community health center, which charges based on what you can pay.
  • Ask a hospital about financial assistance. Nonprofit hospitals must have a policy.
  • Check prescription savings programs, and whether your children qualify.
  • Look into a Medicare Savings Program if you have Medicare.
  • Recheck whenever your income or household changes.

Medicaid eligibility calculator by state

Choose your state for its Medicaid income limits, eligibility rules, agency phone number and how to apply.

Not sure if you qualify?Get a free estimate in about a minute. No sign-up needed.
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State Medicaid agency contacts

Phone numbers and websites from Medicaid.gov's state help list. Each agency can confirm current details.

StatePhoneWebsite
Alabama334-242-5000Official site
Alaska800-478-7778Official site
Arizona800-654-8713Official site
Arkansas800-482-8988Official site
California800-541-5555Official site
Colorado800-221-3943Official site
Connecticut855-805-4325Official site
Delaware866-843-7212Official site
District of Columbia855-532-5465Official site
Florida888-419-3456Official site
Georgia877-423-4746Official site
Hawaii800-316-8005Official site
Idaho877-456-1233Official site
Illinois800-843-6154Official site
Indiana800-403-0864Official site
Iowa800-338-8366Official site
Kansas800-792-4884Official site
Kentucky855-306-8959Official site
Louisiana888-342-6207Official site
Maine855-797-4357Official site
Maryland855-642-8572Official site
Massachusetts800-841-2900Official site
Michigan833-599-6444Official site
Minnesota800-657-3672Official site
Mississippi800-421-2408Official site
Missouri573-751-3425Official site
Montana800-362-8312Official site
Nebraska855-632-7633Official site
Nevada877-638-3472Official site
New Hampshire844-275-3447Official site
New Jersey800-701-0710Official site
New Mexico800-283-4465Official site
New York855-355-5777Official site
North Carolina888-245-0179Official site
North Dakota800-755-2604Official site
Ohio800-324-8680Official site
Oklahoma800-987-7767Official site
Oregon800-699-9075Official site
Pennsylvania800-692-7462Official site
Rhode Island855-840-4774Official site
South Carolina888-549-0820Official site
South Dakota800-597-1603Official site
Tennessee855-259-0701Official site
Texas800-335-8957Official site
Utah866-435-7414Official site
Vermont855-899-9600Official site
Virginia833-522-5582Official site
Washington800-562-3022Official site
West Virginia877-716-1212Official site
Wisconsin800-362-3002Official site
Wyoming855-294-2127Official site

Free benefits with Medicaid and EBT

What Medicaid, EBT and related programs really offer, from free phones to free rides. See all guides.

Medicaid eligibility calculator FAQs

How do I know if I qualify for Medicaid?

Medicaid eligibility depends mainly on your state, income, household size and which group you belong to, such as person, child, pregnant person, senior or person with a disability. Our Medicaid eligibility calculator compares those details with published limits and gives you an estimate. Your state agency makes the final decision.

What is a Medicaid eligibility calculator?

It is a free online tool that estimates whether you may qualify for Medicaid. You enter your state, household size, income and situation, and it compares them with the limit for your group. It is also called a Medicaid calculator, Medicaid income calculator or Medicaid eligibility checker.

Is this Medicaid calculator free?

Yes. There is no cost, no sign-up and no need to share your name or contact details. Your answers stay in your browser.

Is the calculator result official?

No. It is an estimate from an independent website. Only your state Medicaid agency can approve or deny coverage.

What is the Medicaid income limit for one person in 2026?

In most expansion states, it is about $22,025 a year, or $1,835 a month. That's 138% of the 2026 federal poverty level of $15,960. Alaska and Hawaii are higher, and non-expansion states follow different rules.

What is the Medicaid income limit for a family of four in 2026?

In most expansion states, people aged 19–64 in a household of four can qualify up to about $45,540 a year, or $3,795 a month. Children and pregnant people often qualify at higher incomes.

What is the income limit for a family of three?

In the contiguous states, 138% of the poverty level for three people is about $37,702 a year, or $3,142 a month.

What is the federal poverty level for 2026?

For the 48 contiguous states and DC, it is $15,960 for one person, plus $5,680 for each additional person. A family of four is $33,000. Alaska starts at $19,950 and Hawaii at $18,360.

Why is the limit 138% and not 133%?

The law sets expansion eligibility at 133% of the poverty level, and a standard 5% income disregard effectively raises it to 138%. That is why you may see both numbers.

Is Medicaid income based on gross or net pay?

Most groups use Modified Adjusted Gross Income, which starts from your taxable income, not your take-home pay. Certain pre-tax deductions can lower it. Rules for seniors and people with disabilities are different.

Does Social Security count as income for Medicaid?

Yes, for most groups. Under the MAGI rules, Social Security benefits count, including the untaxed part. SSI does not count under MAGI.

Does unemployment count as income?

Yes. Unemployment compensation generally counts as income for Medicaid.

Does child support count as income?

Under MAGI rules, child support you receive generally does not count. Different rules can apply to seniors and people with disabilities.

Who counts in my Medicaid household size?

For most groups, it follows your tax household: you, your spouse if you live together and anyone you claim as a dependent. Pregnant people count themselves plus each expected baby.

Can I get Medicaid if I have a job?

Yes. Many people on Medicaid work. What matters is your income, not whether you are employed.

Can I get Medicaid if I have other insurance?

Often, yes. Medicaid can work alongside other coverage, and it typically pays after your other insurance has paid.

Can I have Medicaid and Medicare at the same time?

Yes. People with both are called dual eligible. Medicaid can help with Medicare premiums and costs and may add benefits such as long-term care.

Can a single person with no children get Medicaid?

Yes, in the 41 expansion jurisdictions, including DC, if income is within the limit. In most non-expansion states, people without children generally cannot qualify unless they are pregnant, disabled or 65 and older.

What is the Medicaid coverage gap?

In some non-expansion states, certain people aged 19–64 earn too much for Medicaid but too little for Marketplace premium tax credits, which generally start at 100% of the poverty level.

Which states did not expand Medicaid?

Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin and Wyoming. Wisconsin still covers people up to 100% of poverty, and Georgia has the limited Pathways program.

Is there a Medicaid asset limit?

Most people aged 19–64, children and pregnant people have no asset test. People qualifying through age or disability often do, commonly $2,000 for one person and $3,000 for a couple, though some states differ.

Will Medicaid count my house or car?

A primary home and one vehicle are usually exempt when an asset test applies, but home equity rules and estate recovery can matter for long-term care.

Can I get Medicaid while pregnant?

Yes. All states cover pregnancy, and limits are usually higher than for other people. Coverage continues after birth, and nearly all states now offer 12 months postpartum.

What about my newborn?

A baby born to a mother on Medicaid is generally deemed eligible for the first year. Report the birth to your state quickly.

What is CHIP?

The Children's Health Insurance Program covers children in families that earn too much for Medicaid but cannot afford private coverage. Some states run it as part of Medicaid, and others separately.

What is the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?

Medicaid is based largely on income and run jointly by states and the federal government. Medicare is a federal program mainly for people 65 and over and certain people with disabilities.

How long does Medicaid approval take?

States generally must decide within 45 days, or 90 days when eligibility depends on a disability.

Can Medicaid pay old medical bills?

Often. Coverage can reach back up to three months before you applied if you would have qualified. From 2027, federal law shortens this to one month for expansion enrollees and two months for most others.

How do I apply for Medicaid?

Apply through your state Medicaid agency or at HealthCare.gov, online, by phone, by mail or in person. Our state pages list the agency website and phone number.

Do I need documents to apply?

Usually you need details on identity, citizenship or immigration status, address, household and income. The state may verify some electronically and ask for the rest.

Do immigrants qualify for Medicaid?

It depends on status and state. Many lawfully present immigrants face a five-year wait, and federal law narrowed eligible categories from October 2026. Emergency Medicaid is available to those who otherwise qualify, regardless of status.

Is there a Medicaid work requirement in 2026?

Federal law requires most expansion enrollees aged 19 to 64 to complete 80 hours a month of work or qualifying activities starting no later than January 1, 2027. Exemptions include pregnant people, certain parents and people who are medically frail.

How often must I renew Medicaid?

Generally every 12 months. Federal law moves most expansion enrollees to six-month checks for renewals after December 31, 2026. Keep your address up to date so you get notices.

What should I do if I am denied?

Read the notice, which must give a reason and your appeal rights. You can ask for a fair hearing, usually within 90 days. Free legal aid may be able to help.

Does Medicaid cover dental and vision?

Children get dental and vision care through EPSDT. Dental care for people 21 and older and eyeglasses are optional benefits, so coverage depends on your state.

Does Medicaid cover mental health care?

Yes, all states cover some mental health and recovery services, though details vary. Expansion enrollees have added parity protections.

Does Medicaid cost anything?

Usually very little. Most people pay no premium, and states may charge small copays. Children and pregnant people are generally protected from many charges.

Does Medicaid pay for nursing homes?

Yes. Nursing facility services are a mandatory benefit for those who qualify. Financial and medical rules apply, including a 60-month look-back on asset transfers.

What is the Medicaid look-back period?

For long-term care, states review asset transfers made in the previous 60 months. Giving away assets for less than their value can cause a period of ineligibility.

Can Medicaid take my house after I die?

States must seek recovery from the estates of certain enrollees aged 55 and over, and rules protect surviving spouses and some relatives. An elder law attorney can explain your state rules.

Can I get a free phone with Medicaid?

Medicaid qualifies you for Lifeline, which discounts phone or internet service. Some participating companies offer a free or low-cost phone. See our free phone guide.

Does Medicaid provide free rides?

Yes. Transportation to medical care is a mandatory benefit if you have no other way to get there. Call the number on your card to book.

Where can I check my Medicaid status?

Use your state portal or call your state agency. If you already have coverage, the member number on your card can also help.

Can I apply if the calculator says I am unlikely to qualify?

Yes. Anyone can apply, and applying is free. States consider details that a calculator cannot.

Is my information safe?

The calculator runs in your browser and does not send your answers to us. We never ask for your Social Security number.

Am I eligible for Medicaid?

You may be if your income is within your state's limit for your group and you meet residency and citizenship or immigration rules. Use the calculator above for an estimate.

How much money can you make and still get Medicaid?

In most expansion states, a single person can earn up to about $1,835 a month in 2026, and a family of four about $3,795. Limits are different for other groups and in non-expansion states.

How do I use a Medicaid income limit calculator?

Enter your state, household size and income before taxes. The calculator compares your income with the limit for your group and shows the difference.

Is a Medicaid eligibility checker the same as applying?

No. A checker only gives an estimate. To get coverage, you need to apply through your state agency or HealthCare.gov.

Can I keep my doctor on Medicaid?

If your doctor accepts Medicaid and your plan, yes. Ask the office, and check your plan directory before enrolling.

What happens if my income changes after approval?

Report the change as your state requires. You may lose or keep coverage depending on your new income, and may qualify for Marketplace savings if you lose it.

Is there a waiting period for Medicaid?

There is no general waiting period for citizens. Many lawfully present immigrants have a five-year wait, and decisions can take up to 45 or 90 days.

Can I apply for my child separately?

Yes. You can apply for your child even if you do not qualify or are not applying yourself.

Can I apply with private insurance?

Yes. Having insurance does not stop you from applying, and Medicaid can cover some costs your plan does not.

Can college students get Medicaid?

Often yes, depending on income and tax household. A student claimed by parents is usually counted in the parents' household.

Can I get Medicaid if I am self-employed?

Yes. Your income is generally your profit after allowable business expenses. Keep good records.

Can I get Medicaid if I am homeless?

Yes. You do not need a fixed address to qualify. You can usually use a shelter or other mailing address.

Do I have to pay Medicaid back?

Generally not, except that states must seek recovery from certain estates, mainly for long-term care for people 55 and over.

Can I use Medicaid in another state?

Coverage generally is for your state, apart from emergencies and approved care. If you move, apply in your new state.

What is presumptive eligibility?

It allows qualified hospitals and some other providers to give temporary coverage to people who appear eligible while they apply.

What is a Medicaid waiver?

It is a state program with special federal approval, often used for home care for seniors and people with disabilities. Some have waiting lists.

What is the income limit for Medicaid for seniors?

Many states use an SSI-based limit of about $1,014 a month for one person in 2026, while others go higher. Long-term care often uses a higher cap of $2,982 a month.

What should I do if I lost Medicaid during renewal?

Contact your agency right away. If you lost it over paperwork, you may have a period to fix it, and you can reapply at any time.

Does Medicaid cover prescriptions?

All states currently cover prescription medications, although it is an optional benefit. Each state or plan has a list of covered medications, and some need prior approval.

Does Medicaid cover emergency room visits?

Yes. Emergency care is covered, and you do not need approval first. A small copay may apply if the visit was not a true emergency, depending on your state.

Does Medicaid cover therapy and counseling?

All states cover some mental health care, but the details vary. Ask your plan which counselors accept it and whether a referral is needed.

Does Medicaid cover home health care?

Yes. Home health services are a mandatory benefit for those who qualify. Personal care and other help at home may come through optional programs or waivers.

Does Medicaid cover hearing aids?

Children can get them when medically necessary through EPSDT. Coverage for people 21 and older varies by state, so check with your plan.

Can I get Medicaid if I am married and my spouse works?

Usually both incomes count if you live together and file together. Special rules can protect a spouse who stays at home when the other needs long-term care.

What if my employer offers insurance?

You can still apply for Medicaid. If you qualify, it can work alongside employer coverage, and some states help pay premiums for job-based plans.

How do I get a replacement Medicaid card?

Call your state agency or the member number for your health plan. Many states and plans also let you view or request a card online.

How do I change my Medicaid plan?

Most states with managed care let you choose a plan when you enroll and change at set times. Ask your agency or enrollment broker about your options.

How do I find free help applying?

Call 211, contact your state agency or use LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov to find a trained helper at no charge.

More Medicaid guides