How to Get Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to low-income Americans. It is the largest source of health coverage in the United States, covering over 70 million people.
Medicaid eligibility varies from state to state, but there are some general requirements that you must meet in order to qualify. These requirements include:
- Income: You must have a low income. The income limit varies from state to state, but it is generally around 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL).
- Assets: You must have limited assets. The asset limit varies from state to state, but it is generally around $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.
- Residency: You must be a resident of the state in which you are applying for Medicaid.
- Citizenship or immigration status: You must be a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident, or a qualified non-citizen.
If you meet these general requirements, you can apply for Medicaid through your state’s Medicaid agency. The application process can be complex, so it is important to get help from a qualified professional.
How to Apply for Medicaid
The Medicaid application process varies from state to state, but there are some general steps that you will need to follow. These steps include:
- Contact your state’s Medicaid agency. You can find the contact information for your state’s Medicaid agency on the Medicaid website.
- Complete an application form. The application form will ask for information about your income, assets, residency, and citizenship or immigration status.
- Submit your application. You can submit your application online, by mail, or in person.
- Wait for a decision. The Medicaid agency will review your application and make a decision on whether or not you are eligible for Medicaid.
What Happens if I Get Medicaid?
If you are approved for Medicaid, you will receive a Medicaid card. This card will allow you to get free or low-cost health care services from Medicaid providers. The types of services that you can get through Medicaid vary from state to state, but they typically include:
- Doctor visits
- Hospital stays
- Prescription drugs
- Dental care
- Vision care
- Mental health care
How to Keep Your Medicaid Coverage
Once you have Medicaid coverage, it is important to keep your coverage active. You can do this by:
- Reporting changes to your income, assets, or residency. If your income, assets, or residency change, you need to report these changes to your state’s Medicaid agency.
- Renewing your coverage. Medicaid coverage typically lasts for one year. You need to renew your coverage each year by submitting a renewal form to your state’s Medicaid agency.
FAQ
- What is the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
Medicaid is a health insurance program for low-income Americans. Medicare is a health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, or who have certain disabilities.
- How do I know if I am eligible for Medicaid?
You can use the Medicaid Eligibility Checker to see if you are eligible for Medicaid. The Medicaid Eligibility Checker is a free online tool that will ask you questions about your income, assets, residency, and citizenship or immigration status.
- How do I apply for Medicaid?
You can apply for Medicaid through your state’s Medicaid agency. The application process can be complex, so it is important to get help from a qualified professional.
- What happens if I get Medicaid?
If you are approved for Medicaid, you will receive a Medicaid card. This card will allow you to get free or low-cost health care services from Medicaid providers.
- How do I keep my Medicaid coverage?
You can keep your Medicaid coverage active by reporting changes to your income, assets, or residency, and by renewing your coverage each year.
