Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides free or low-cost health coverage to low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Medicaid programs vary from state to state. In this post, we are going to walk you through what Medicaid is about, eligibility requirements, including income and asset limits, and how to apply for Medicaid in your state.
This post will cover:
- What is Medicaid
- Am I eligible for Medicaid?
- What Does Medicaid Cover?
- How to Apply for Medicaid in 3 Easy Steps
What is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a federal and state health insurance program for people with a low income.
It provides free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans, including families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) offers health coverage to children in families with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid, but who can’t afford private coverage.
For the difference between Medicaid and Medicare, see our post on Medicaid vs. Medicare.
How Many People are on Medicaid?
According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, as of November 2020, here are the number of people enrolled in Medicaid and Chip in the entire United States:
- 78,521,263 individuals were enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP
- 72,204,587 individuals were enrolled in Medicaid
- 6,695,834 individuals were enrolled in CHIP
Am I eligible for Medicaid?
The following covered groups of people qualify for full Medicaid health benefits if eligible under the appropriate income limits and other qualifications according to requirements in their state of residence.
- Adults
- Children
- Former Foster Care Youth
- Medicare-eligible Individuals
- Parents and Caretaker Relatives
- People who need Long Term Care in Nursing Facilities or Community Settings
- People with Disabilities
- Pregnant Women
- Seniors Age 65 or Older
What Does Medicaid Cover?
Here is the list of standard benefits that Medicaid covers in each state:
- Dental care,
- Doctor, hospital, and emergency services,
- Family planning,
- Home health services,
- Laboratory and x-ray services,
- Maternity and newborn care,
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment,
- Nurse First Advice Line,
- Prescription drugs,
- Rehabilitative services and supplies,
- School-based services,
- Speech therapy, audiology, and hearing aids,
- Transportation to appointments, and
- Vision care.
Adult Dental Benefits
- Preventative (cleaning, fluoride), and
- Anesthesia/sedation services.
How to Apply for Medicaid in 3 Steps
Follow the three steps below to apply for Medicaid in your state:
Step 1: See if you’re eligible for Medicaid in your state
To be eligible for Medicaid, applicants must meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Medicaid requirements are based on state and federal law.
Each state sets its own requirements, including income limits, based on federal standards.
Some requirements, such as the income limits, vary for different groups of people and household sizes.
Medicaid Income Limits by State
Click on the link below to look up your income and household size to see if you may qualify for Medicaid in your state.
If you’re pregnant or have children, you may earn more and still qualify.
Additionally, if you are an adult without dependents and live in a state that has expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), you may qualify if you meet the income limit.
Click below to get the income limits for your state.
Medicaid Income Limits by State (for all 50 states and D.C)
Medicaid Asset Limits
In addition to the income limits, some individuals have their assets taken into account when they apply for Medicaid.
To get Medicaid for blindness, disability, or age, your assets (i.e. stocks, bonds, and savings) cannot exceed a certain amount.
However, certain types of assets, such as your home and personal vehicle, are exempt from determining eligibility.
The asset limits depend on a few factors:
If you are single, your assets must be below $2,000. If you are living with a dependent child or spouse, it must be under $3,000, combined.
There are no asset limits for the following groups:
- Non-disabled adults
- Pregnant women
- People with a dependent child in their care.
If you are eligible for Medicaid because of blindness, disability, or age, you can get a “resource disregard.”
If you are a single adult, up to $2,000 worth of your assets are not counted toward the limits;
Additionally, if you are an adult who lives with a dependent, up to $3,000 worth of your assets are not counted. Each additional dependent can add $50 to the limit.
Citizenship
To be eligible for Medicaid, you must be a U.S. citizen or you must be within one of the qualified categories of non-citizens.
This includes refugees and persons lawfully present in the U.S. for over five years.
However, if you are not eligible for Medicaid, you may be eligible for emergency medical assistance. You must meet the financial eligibility criteria.
If you cannot get Medicaid because of your immigration status, you may be able to buy low-cost insurance.
Check with your state’s agency that runs the Healthcare Marketplace for the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
Step 2: Gather the Information and documents you need to apply
Before applying for Medicaid, you should have the following information ready for each person who is applying:
Even when your income qualifies for Medicaid, your state will still ask you to provide certain documents when you submit your application.
Due to COVID-19 precautions, an in-person application may not be possible, so please have these documents handy when you apply online.
- Social Security number (for those who have one)
- Date of birth
- Marital status
- Proof of identification
- Address
- U.S. citizenship or immigration status
- Job information, including employer’s name, address, and phone number
Income from Employment - Other income (for example, Social Security or Unemployment Compensation)
- Names of people living in your home and how they are related.
- Information about health insurance you may have through your employer
Step 3: Submit your Medicaid application
We have provided below the Medicaid Application step for all 50 states and the District. of Columbia.
In almost all states, we have provided details on how to:
- Apply for Medicaid Online
- Apply In Person at your local Medicaid office
- By Phone
- And how to download a paper application in pdf form.
Scroll down below to find your state and follow the instructions for submitting your application.
Your state’s Medicaid office has 45 days to process your application.
However, disability applications can take up to 90 days to be processed.
Additionally, if your Medicaid application isn’t approved, you have the right to appeal the decision.
Scroll down below to find your state and pick the option that best suits you to apply for Medicaid.
How to Apply for Alabama Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Alabama.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the AlabamaCares account (as shown in the image below). If you have an account, you can log in or create your AlabamaCares Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at Medicaid Agency Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Alabama Medicaid Office Locations near you. Click here to locate a Medicaid Office.
Option 3 – Download Alabama Medicaid Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county Medicaid office or submit it in person.
Call your county Medicaid office if one of these methods will not work for you. Click here to locate an Alabama Medicaid Agency office.
How to Apply for Alaska Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Alaska.
Option 1 – Apply online
To apply for Alaska Medicaid online, visit My.Alaska.gov and Click on ARIES Self-Service Portal under Services for Individuals. If you have an account, you can log in or create your new account (as shown in the image below). Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DPA Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Alaska Division of Public Assistance (DPA) office near you. Click here to locate a DPA office.
Option 3 – Download Alaska Medicaid Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DPA office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Arizona Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Arizona.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Arizona Health-e-Arizona Plus account (as shown in the image below). If you have an account, you can log in or create your Health-e-Arizona Plus Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DES Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) office near you. Click here to locate a DES office.
Option 3 – Download Arizona Food Stamps Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DES office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Arkansas Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Arkansas.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Arkansas ACCESS account (as shown in the image below). If you have an account, you can log in or create your ACCESS Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) office near you. Click here to locate a DHS office.
Option 3 – Download Arkansas Food Stamps Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for California Medicaid (Medi-Cal)
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in California.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the CoveredCA.com website, as shown by the image below.
CoveredCA.com is a joint partnership between Covered California and the Department of Health Care Services.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your CoveredCA.com account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at CDSS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) office near you. Click here to locate a CDSS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and Covered California have partnered to create a Single Streamlined Application for affordable health care coverage.
You can use the Single Streamlined Application to apply for a range of affordable health care coverage options, including free or low cost Medi-Cal.
First, download the application, complete it, You can mail your completed and signed application to:
Covered California
P.O. Box 989725
West Sacramento, CA 95798-9725
Additionally, you can mail it to your local County Social Services Office.
How to Apply for Colorado Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Colorado.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Colorado PEAK account (as shown in the image below). If you have an account, you can log in or create your PEAK Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at CDHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Colorado Department of Human Resources (CDHS) office near you. Click here to locate a CDHS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county CDHS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Connecticut Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Connecticut.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the connect.ct.gov account (as shown in the image below). If you have an account, you can log in or create your connect.ct.gov account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DSS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Connecticut Department of Social Services (CT DSS) office near you. Click here to locate a CT DSS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county CT DSS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Delaware Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Delaware.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Delaware ASSIST account (as shown in the image below). If you have an account, you can log in or create your ASSIST Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHSS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Delaware Health and Social Services (DHSS) office near you. Click here to locate a DHSS office.
Option 3 – Download Delaware Food Stamps Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHSS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Washington DC Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Washington DC.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Washington DC Health Link. – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your DC Health Link Portal Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHS Office Near You
You can also apply in person at an Income Maintenance Administration (IMA) Service Center.
To locate a center, click here or call 202-727-5355 for help.
For your convenience, we have also provided the office locations and phone numbers of the IMA Service Centers below.
| Service Center | Address | Phone | Fax |
| Anacostia | 2100 Martin Luther King Avenue, SE | (202) 645-4614 | (202) 727-3527 |
| Congress Heights | 4049 South Capitol Street, SW | (202) 645-4525 | (202) 654-4524 |
| Fort Davis | 3851 Alabama Avenue, SE | (202) 645-4500 | (202) 645-6205 |
| H Street | 645 H Street, NE | (202) 698-4350 | (202) 724-8964 |
| Taylor Street | 1207 Taylor Street, NW | (202) 576-8000 | (202) 576-8740 |
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your IMA office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Florida Food Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Florida.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Florida ACCESS account (as shown in the image below). If you have an account, you can log in or create your MyACCESS Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DCF Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) office near you. Click here to locate a DCF office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it and mail it to your county DCF office or submit it in person.
Click here for the Florida Medicaid Contact Number.
How to Apply for Georgia Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Georgia.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Georgia Gateway account (as shown in the image below). If you have an account, you can log in or create your Gateway Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DFCS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) office near you. Click here to locate a DFCS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it and mail it to your county DFCS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Hawaii Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Hawaii.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the My Medical Benefits website, as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at Med-QUEST Office Near You
You can apply in person at a Med-QUEST Division Eligibility Office office near you. Click here to locate an office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to a Med-QUEST Division Eligibility Office office near you or submit it in person.
Click here to locate an office.
How to Apply for Idaho Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Idaho.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Idalink Idaho portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Idalink Idaho Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Be prepared to provide this information with the application:
- Verification of identity (ex. driver’s license)
- Household income
- Current monthly expenses
- If applicable, immigration status
Option 2 – Apply at DHW Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare (DHW) office near you. Click here to locate a DHW office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHW office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Illinois Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Illinois.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the ABE Illinois account (as shown in the image below). If you have an account, you can log in or create your ABE Illinois Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Illinois Department of Human Services office near you. Click here to locate a DHS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHS office or submit it in person.
Call your county DHS office if one of these methods will not work for you. Click here to locate a DHS office.
How to Apply for Indiana Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Indiana.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Indiana FSSA Benefits Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Indiana FSSA Benefits Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
The video below, from the Indiana FSSA does a great job of walking you through how you can apply for benefits online, including Medicaid.
We encourage you to watch it if you are applying online.
Option 2 – Apply at DFR Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Indiana Division Of Family Resources office near you. Click here to locate an FSSA office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DFR office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Iowa Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Iowa.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Iowa DHS benefits portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Iowa DHS benefits Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHS Office Near You
There may be counselors in your area who can help. Visit the DHS website or call 1-855-889-7985 for more information.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHS office or submit it in person. Click here for a DHS office near you.
How to Apply for Kansas Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Kansas.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Medical Self-Service Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Self-Service Portal Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply by Phone
You can call 800-792-4884 and have an application form mailed to you.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DCF office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Kentucky Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Kentucky.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the kynect Website – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your kynect Website Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DCBS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office near you. Click here to locate a DCBS office.
You can also apply for Medicaid only by calling the Kentucky Healthcare Customer Service line toll-free at (855) 459-6328.
Option 3 – Download Kentucky Food Stamps Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DCBS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Louisiana Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for food stamps in Medicaid.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Louisiana Medicaid Self Service Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Medicaid Self Service Portal Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at Medicaid Application Center Near You
You can apply in person at a Medicaid Application Center near you. Click here to locate an office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county Medicaid Application Center or submit it in person.
For assistance with your Medicaid application, or to ask questions about programs or services, please call toll free 1.888.342.6207.
How to Apply for Maine Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Maine.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the My Maine Connection Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your My Maine Connection Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) office near you. Click here to locate a DHHS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and submit it in-person to your county DHHS office or mail it to:
Office for Family Independence
114 Corn Shop Lane
Farmington, ME 04938
Additionally, you can email an application to Farmington.DHHS@Maine.gov.
How to Apply for Maryland Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Maryland.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Maryland Health Connection Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Maryland Health Connection Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at the Department of Social Services Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Maryland Department of Social Services office near you. Click here to locate an office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county Social Services office near you or submit it in person.
Click here to locate an office.
How to Apply for Massachusetts Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Massachusetts.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Massachusetts Health Connector Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Massachusetts Health Connector Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at MassHealth Enrollment Center Near You
You can apply in person at the MassHealth Enrollment Center near you. Click here to locate an office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to:
Mail your filled-out, signed application to:
Health Insurance Processing Center
PO Box 4405
Taunton, MA 02780.
Additionally, you can fax your filled-out, signed application to (857) 323-8300.
How to Apply for Michigan Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Michigan.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the MI Bridges Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your MI Bridges Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
The video below, by the Michigan HHS does a great job of explaining how to apply online for benefits with MI Bridges.
We highly recommend you watch it if you are applying online for Michigan Medicaid.
Option 2 – Apply at MDHHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) office near you. Click here to locate an MDHHS office.
Option 3 – Apply by Phone
Call the Michigan Health Care Helpline at 1-855-789-5610 and have an application mailed to you.
How to Apply for Minnesota Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Minnesota.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the MNsure Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your MNsure Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) office near you. Click here to locate a DHS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHS office or submit it in person.
If you cannot print out the application, you can get one from your county or tribal DHS office or call 651-431-2670 or 800-657-3739 and ask to have one mailed to you.
How to Apply for Mississippi Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Mississippi.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Mississippi’s Common Web Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Mississippi’s Common Web Portal Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at Mississippi Division of Medicaid Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Mississippi Division of Medicaid Office near you. Click here to locate an office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and:
- Fax the Office of Eligibility at the Division of Medicaid: 601-576-4164
- Mail to: 550 High Street, Suite 1000, Jackson, MS 39201 or the regional office that serves your county of residence.
How to Apply for Missouri Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Missouri.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Mydss.mo.gov Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Mydss.mo.gov account. Click here to be taken to the website.
The video below from the Missouri DSS does a great job of explaining how to use the myDSS portal to apply for Medicaid online.
We highly recommend that you watch it if you plan to apply for benefits online.
Option 2 – Apply at DSS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) office near you. Click here to locate a DSS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and:
Mail it to:
Greene County FSD
101 Park Central Square
Springfield MO 65806
Fax: (417) 895-6080
How to Apply for Montana Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Montana.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the ePass Montana Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your ePass Montana account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at a Offices of Public Assistance Near You
Find in-person help by visiting covermt.org or your local DPHHS Office of Public Assistance. To locate an Office of Public Assistance near you, click here.
Option 3 – Download Application
Call DPHHS at 1-888-706-1535 to have an application mailed to you. Complete it and mail it to your county DPHHS office or submit it in person.
To locate a DPHHS Office of Public Assistance near you, click here.
How to Apply for Nebraska Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Nebraska.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the ACCESSNebraska Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your ACCESSNebraska Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) office near you. Click here to locate a DHHS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHHS office or submit it in person.
Additionally, you can call one of the numbers below to apply over the phone or to request a paper Medicaid application.
The phone lines are open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
1-(855) 632-7633
In Lincoln: (402) 473-7000
In Omaha: (402) 595-1178
How to Apply for Nevada Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Nevada.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Access Nevada Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Access Nevada Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DWSS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) office near you. Click here to locate a DWSS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DWSS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for New Hampshire Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in New Hampshire.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the DHHS NH EASY Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your DHHS NH EASY Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) office near you. Click here to locate a DHHS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHHS office or submit it in person.
Additionally, you may call us at 1-800-852-3345, extension 9700 to apply for Medicaid over the phone.
Also, you may also fax in your application for Medicaid to (603) 271-8604.
How to Apply for New Jersey Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in New Jersey.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the NJFamilyCare Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your NJFamilyCare account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at County Board of Social Services Near You
You can apply in person at the County Board of Social Services office near you. Click here to locate an office.
Option 3 – Download New Jersey Food Stamps Application
You can download an application for NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid from www.njfamilycare.org or call 1-800-701-0710 to request that an application be mailed to you.
Complete it and mail it to a County Board of Social Services office near you.
How to Apply for New Mexico Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in New Mexico.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the YesNM Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your YesNM Portal account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at HSD Office Near You
You can apply in person at the New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD) office near you. Click here to locate an HSD office.
Option 3 – Download New Mexico Food Stamps Application
Call HSD at 1-800-283-4465 to have an application mailed to you. Complete it and mail it to your county HSD office or submit it in person.
Or mail your signed application. Send to:
Central ASPEN Scanning Area (CASA)
PO Box 830
Bernalillo, NM 87004
Or fax your signed application. Fax to:
1-855-804-8960
Additionally, you can apply for Medicaid over the phone. Call: 1-855-637-6574.
New York State has separate Medicaid Applications: one for certain categories of New York City residents and the other for the rest of the state. See below and select appropriately based on your situation.
How to Apply for New York City Medicaid
You can apply for Medicaid through New York City HRA if you:
- Are over 65
- Need Medicaid because of a disability or blindness
- Get Medicare and are not a parent or caretaker of minor children
- Are a former foster young adult under 26
If any of these categories describe your case, call the HRA Helpline at 1-888-692-6116 or visit any one of the Medical Assistance Program Offices.
Click here to Find a Medicaid Office near you.
Additionally, Low-income pregnant women, children, and adults under 65 must apply for coverage through NY State of Health (see below).
It is operated by New York State and is the Official Health Plan Marketplace. Contact the Marketplace at 1-855-355-5777.
How to Apply for New York Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in New York State.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the NY State of Health Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your NY State of Health Portal account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DSS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the New York Departments of Social Services (DSS) office near you. Click here to locate a DSS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
Call the Medicaid Helpline Medicaid Helpline (800) 541-2831 to have an application mailed to you.
Complete it and mail it to your county DSS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for North Carolina Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in North Carolina.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the North Carolina ePASS Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your North Carolina ePASS Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
The video below, from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) does a great job of walking you through how to apply for Medicaid online.
We highly encourage you to watch it if you are planning to apply for NC Medicaid online.
Option 2 – Apply at DSS Office Near You
You can apply in person at your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office near you. Click here to locate a DSS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DSS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for North Dakota Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in North Dakota.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the North Dakota DHS Benefits Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your North Dakota DHS Benefits Portal account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the North Dakota Department of Human Services (DHS) office near you. Click here to locate a DHS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can also download and complete and submit the appropriate county social service office.
How to Apply for Ohio Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Ohio.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Benefits.ohio.gov Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Benefits.ohio.gov account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at JFS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services (JFS) office near you. Click here to locate a JFS office.
Option 3 – Download Ohio Food Stamps Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county JFS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Oklahoma Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Oklahoma.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply for Medicaid in Oklahoma online.
However, depending on the Medicaid category that applies to you, your online application may be different.
Click here for details on how to apply online.
Option 2 – Apply at DHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) office near you. Click here to locate a DHS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
If you need help completing the form, call the SoonerCare Helpline at -1800-987-7767.
How to Apply for Oregon Medicaid
There are 2 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Oregon.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the one.oregon.gov Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your one.oregon.gov account. Click here to be taken to the website.
The video below, from the Oregon Health Authority, does a great job of walking you through how to apply for Medicaid online.
We highly encourage you to watch it if you are planning to apply for OR Medicaid online.
Option 2 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHS office or submit it in person.
Additionally, you can request a paper application by calling OHP Customer Service at 1-800-699-9075 or 711 (TTY).
How to Apply for Pennsylvania Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Pennsylvania.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the MyCOMPASS PA Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your MyCOMPASS PA account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at a County Assistance Office Near You
You can apply in person at the County Assistance Office (CAO) office near you. Click here to locate a CAO office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your County Assistance Office (CAO) office or submit it in person.
Additionally, you can Call the Consumer Service Center for Health Care Coverage at 1-866-550-4355.
How to Apply for Rhode Island Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Rhode Island.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the HealthSource RI Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your HealthSource RI account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS) office near you. Click here to locate a DHS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for South Carolina Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in South Carolina.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Healthy Connections Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Healthy Connections account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at Healthy Connections County Office Near You
You can apply in person at the South Carolina Healthy Connections County office near you. Click here to locate an office.
Option 3 – Download Application
Call the main customer service line at (888) 549-0820 and have an application mailed to you.
You can return your application and supporting documents electronically to 8888201204@fax.scdhhs.gov.
You can also mail it to:
SCDHHS-Central Mail
P.O. Box 100101
Columbia, SC 29202-3101
or at your local county office.
In addition, you may apply in person at federally qualified rural health centers and at most hospitals. TTY: 888-842-3620
How to Apply for South Dakota Medicaid
There are 2 ways you can apply for Medicaid in South Dakota.
Option 1 – Apply at DSS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) office near you. Click here to locate a DSS office.
Option 2 – Download South Dakota Food Stamps Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DSS office or submit it in person.
If you need assistance completing an application contact a Department of Social Services office nearest you or call 800.305.3064.
How to Apply for Tennessee Medicaid
There are 2 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Tennessee.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the TennCare Connect Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your TennCare Connect Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
The video below, from TennCare Connect, does a great job of walking you through how to apply for Medicaid online.
We highly encourage you to watch it if you are planning to apply for TN Medicaid online.
Option 2 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHS office or submit it in person.
There are two ways to send in your paper application. You only need to choose one:
Mail it to:
TennCare Connect
P.O. Box 305240
Nashville, TN 37202-5240
Or Fax it to: 1-855-315-0669. Be sure to keep the page that says your fax went through.
Additionally, you call 855-259-0701 to apply over the phone.
How to Apply for Texas Medicaid
There are 2 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Texas.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Your Texas Benefits Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Your Texas Benefits Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at HHS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHS) office near you. Click here to locate an HHS office.
How to Apply for Utah Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Utah.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the MyCase Utah Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your MyCase Utah Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DWS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS) office near you. Click here to locate a DWS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DWS office or submit it in person.
You can also mail the application or fax it using the information below:
Mail completed application to:
Department of Workforce Services
PO Box 143245
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-3245
Fax completed application to:
Department of Workforce Services
Fax: 801-526-9505
Toll-free Fax: 1-888-522-9505
How to Apply for Vermont Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Vermont.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the VermontHealthConnect.gov Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your VermontHealthConnect.gov account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at Certified Assister Office Near You
You can apply in person at a Certified Assister Office office near you. Click here to locate an office.
Option 3 – Download Application
Call 1-855-899-9600 to have an application mailed to you. Complete it and mail to:
Vermont Health Connect
Application and Document Processing Center
280 State Drive
Waterbury, VT. 05671-8100
How to Apply for Virginia Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Virginia.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the Virginia CommonHelp Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your Virginia CommonHelp Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DSS Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Virginia Department of Social Services (DSS) office near you. Click here to locate a DSS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DSS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Washington Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Washington.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the wahealthplanfinder.org Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your wahealthplanfinder.org account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at a local HCS office Near You
You can apply in person at the Washington Home and Community Services (HCS) office near you. Click here to locate an office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your an HCS office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for West Virginia Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in West Virginia.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the WV PATH Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your WV PATH Portal Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply at DHHR Office Near You
You can apply in person at the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) office near you. Click here to locate a DHHR office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DHHR office or submit it in person.
Additionally, you can the Customer Service Center at 1-877-716-1212 to apply over the phone.
How to Apply for Wisconsin Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Wisconsin.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the ACCESS Wisconsin Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your ACCESS Wisconsin Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – Apply Income Maintenance or Tribal Agency Office Near You
You can apply in person at the Wisconsin Income Maintenance or Tribal Agency office near you. Click here to locate a DHS office.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county Income Maintenance or Tribal Agency office or submit it in person.
How to Apply for Wyoming Medicaid
There are 3 ways you can apply for Medicaid in Wyoming.
Option 1 – Apply online
You can apply online through the WY Medicaid/CHIP Web Portal Portal – as shown in the image below.
If you have an account, you can log in or create your WY Medicaid/CHIP Web Portal Account. Click here to be taken to the website.
Option 2 – By Phone
The easiest way to apply for Medicaid in Wyoming is by phone.
Call 1-855-294-2127 to apply over the phone and for help.
Option 3 – Download Application
You can download an application, complete it, and mail it to your county DFS office or submit it in person.
Returning a paper application:
You may return a completed paper application by visiting in-person or mailing it to:
Wyoming Department of Health
Customer Service Center
3001 E. Pershing Blvd.
Suite 125
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Fax applications to:
1-855-329-5205
Email applications to:
wesapplications@wyo.gov
Please note that it can take up to 45 days to process applications.
How to Apply for Medicaid Summary
We hope this post on how to Apply for Medicaid was helpful to you.
If you have any questions about Medicaid in your state or Medicaid in general, you can ask us in the comments section below.
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Be sure to check out our other articles about Medicaid.
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