Minimum Age Requirements for Medicaid Insurance

Medicaid is federally funded insurance program designed to bring health care coverage to low-income residents across the country. Each state offers its own Medicaid program, sometimes referred to by a different name. For instance, California's Medicaid program is called Medi-Cal. Although states have their own specific eligibility criteria, the federal government sets the general guidelines regarding age.

Infants

• If a pregnant woman is receiving Medicaid coverage, her newborn child will be automatically receive Medicaid coverage, provided she continues to meet the income requirements. Coverage continues until a child reaches one year of age. The federal guidelines set the income guidelines at 133 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL). But most states set higher income limits for both pregnant women and infants. For instance, in Florida, infants are allowed a household income of 200 percent the FPL.

  Pregnant women remain eligible for Medicaid for 60 days and the remainder of the month in which the 60th day falls. The woman is eligible regardless of any change in family income during this period.

Children Under Age 6

• Children up to age 6 are covered under federal Medicaid mandatory eligibility guidelines. As long as the child is a U.S. citizen, state resident and lives in a household that meets the income requirements, the child will be eligible for Medicaid coverage. The federal income limit is 133 percent of the FPL, based on household size. In 2011, a household of three is allowed to earn or receive $24,645 a year.

Children Under 19

• According to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service, in 2011 states are required to offer coverage to children up to age 19 born after Sept. 30, 1983. States are allowed to choose an earlier date, if desired. If the child is living in the parents' home, eligibility is based on both the child's and parents' income. There is no federal income limit for this eligibility group. States are not required to restrict assets under federal requirements. However, they can set limits at their discretion.

Elderly

• Medicaid is also offered to adults age 65 and older. If the adult is eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), coverage is automatic. Adults who are disabled or blind are also entitled to Medicaid coverage. Applicants must meet state income limits. Asset restrictions may also apply. In Connecticut, the asset limit for a single person is $1,600 and a married couple is limited to $2,400 in countable assets. Your home, vehicle and personal possessions are exempt. Medicaid can be used to supplement Medicare.