Medicaid Eligibility: Do You Qualify for Free Health Insurance?
Medicaid provides free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans. With expanded eligibility in many states, more people qualify than ever before. Here is how to find out if you are eligible.
Who Qualifies for Medicaid?
Medicaid eligibility varies by state, but you may qualify if you are:
- A low-income adult (in expansion states, up to 138% of poverty level)
- Pregnant
- A parent or caretaker of dependent children
- Elderly (65+) with limited income
- Disabled
- A child in a low-income family
What Medicaid Covers
Medicaid provides comprehensive coverage including:
- Doctor visits and hospital care
- Prescription medications
- Mental health services
- Dental care (varies by state)
- Vision care
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Transportation to medical appointments
How to Apply
Apply online at Healthcare.gov, through your state Medicaid office, or by calling 1-800-318-2596. You can apply any time of year – there is no enrollment period for Medicaid. Gather proof of income, identification, and Social Security numbers before starting your application.
Even if you think you make too much money, apply anyway. Many people are surprised to learn they qualify, especially for their children through CHIP.
