Medicaid

How to apply for Medicaid

Apply for Medicaid any time, in one of two ways: directly with your state Medicaid agency, or with a HealthCare.gov Marketplace application, which sends your information to the state if anyone in your household may qualify.

Source: USA.gov: How to apply for Medicaid and CHIP, checked October 23, 2026.

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Two ways to apply

Your state Medicaid agency. You must live in the state where you apply. Find your state below.
A HealthCare.gov Marketplace application. If anyone in the household may qualify for Medicaid or CHIP, HealthCare.gov sends the information to the state agency, and the state contacts you about enrollment. HealthCare.gov

What your state may ask for

Your name and date of birth
Your Social Security number
Your monthly payment amounts for rent, mortgage, or utilities
Proof of citizenship or immigration status
Proof of income, like paystubs or W-2s
A verification of what other government benefits you receive
Information about an insurance plan your employer has offered you or an insurance plan you currently have

List from USA.gov. Requirements depend on the state.

State Medicaid agencies

Questions

How do I apply for Medicaid?

Can I apply for Medicaid any time?

Yes. USA.gov and HealthCare.gov say you can apply for Medicaid and CHIP at any time of year.

What documents do I need to apply for Medicaid?

It depends on the state. USA.gov lists what a state may ask for: your name and date of birth; your social security number; your monthly payment amounts for rent, mortgage, or utilities; proof of citizenship or immigration status; proof of income, like paystubs or w-2s, and more.

Should I apply if I think my income is too high?

HealthCare.gov says to apply anyway: you might qualify, especially if you have children, are pregnant, or have a disability.