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Medicaid Eligibility Limits in Illinois

Illinois provides a range of medical benefits to qualifying low-income residents through the federal Medicaid program. Dependent on age and medical need, Medicaid offers free or low-cost doctor visits, specialized services, dental and vision coverage and prescriptions. Apply for benefits or find more information on a particular program at an Illinois Department of Human Services office. Medicaid requires proof of income, citizenship status and in some cases, medical need as part of the application process.

  1. Residency

    • Illinois Medicaid is available to United States citizens and legal immigrants. Lawful immigrants must reside within the United States for five years before becoming eligible for full benefits. Immigrants under age 19 and pregnant women may qualify for Medicaid regardless of length of residency. Illegal immigrants may qualify for temporary emergency care, but this does not qualify other family members. Illinois does not require residents to live in the state for a specific period of time before becoming eligible for benefits.

    Families and Children

    • FamilyCare and AllKids branches of the Illinois Medicaid program offer coverage to qualifying children and families with children. Members may pay a nominal co-pay fee for medical services and doctor visits based on income. As of May 2011, maximum income standards are 133 to 200 percent of the federal poverty level, depending on the program and household composition. Additionally, pregnant women with incomes not exceeding 200 percent of the poverty level may qualify for benefits.

    Elderly Applicants

    • Individuals age 65 or over may qualify for full Medicaid coverage if their household income does not exceed 100 percent of the federal poverty level. Medicare members with incomes not exceeding 120 to 135 percent of the federal poverty level qualify for some benefits, such as assistance with Medicare premium payments and co-pays. Additionally, Illinois limits available assets from $2,000 to $10,020, depending on the program and a person's marital status. Assets may include, but are not limited to cash, bank accounts and some life insurance policies valued at more than $1,500. Generally, homes, personal items, burial funds and vehicles are excluded from asset calculations.

    Disabled Individuals

    • Excluding working disabled adults, Medicaid requirements for disabled individuals mirrors elderly guidelines. As of May 2011, working disabled applicants age 16 to 64 may qualify for Medicaid coverage if their income does not exceed $3,159 for individuals or $4,250 for couples. Working disabled adults may have assets valued up to $25,000, and nominal premiums or co-pay fees may apply, depending on member income.

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