Start with your state Medicaid program
Medicaid is jointly funded by federal and state governments but administered by states under federal requirements. Only the responsible state agency can make the final eligibility decision.
Who Medicaid may cover
Medicaid provides health coverage to eligible people, including children, pregnant people, parents, adults with limited income, older adults, and people with disabilities. The groups covered and financial rules differ by state.
How to apply
- Find the Medicaid agency for the state or territory where you live.
- Apply through the state agency or, where available, through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
- Provide household, income, citizenship or eligible immigration status, and other information requested for the people seeking coverage.
- Respond to requests for verification and read the eligibility notice.
- If approved, follow enrollment and health-plan instructions from the state.
You can apply year-round
Medicaid and CHIP applications are not limited to the Marketplace annual open-enrollment period. Apply when coverage is needed rather than waiting for open enrollment.
Official starting points
- Medicaid.gov — find your state agency
- HealthCare.gov — Medicaid and CHIP coverage
- USAGov — apply for Medicaid and CHIP