How Can I Apply for State Health Insurance in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts passed a health care reform law in 2006 that mandates and provides free or lower-cost health insurance for all residents. Although several income-based state health insurance policies are available, all applications are uniform and are handled by MassHealth, Massachusetts' primary health insurance program. MassHealth determines which policy best suits the individual or family based on information provided on the application form.

Where to Get Applications

• Request a Massachusetts Medical Benefits Request form and information by calling the MassHealth Enrollment Center at [phone]. For the deaf, you may use MassHealth's TTY service by calling [phone]. You may also call or visit one of four regional MassHealth Enrollment Centers in Revere, Taunton, Tewksbury or Springfield. Information in these locations can be found on massresources.org or by calling MassHealth customer service. After completing the form, mail it to the MassHealth enrollment location provided.

Who Can Apply

• Any documented resident of the state of Massachusetts may apply for state health insurance. You may authorize another individual as your "eligibility representative" if you are not able to complete the application on your own. Minor children and other members of the family do not require a separate application, as provision for adding information for additional household members is included on the form.

Documentation Needed

• Basic documentation for non-minor applicants includes: proof of identity and residency, citizenship or immigration status, birth dates and Social Security numbers (if available) of all applicants. To determine income-based eligibility for the available health plan levels, various documents providing proof of income are required. These may include; pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns and other financial documents as requested. Applicants that are blind, disabled or have been diagnosed with HIV or AIDS will need to provide documentation as to their condition.

Application Approval Time

• MassHealth will approve non-disabled status applications within 45 days unless further information or documentation is needed. In these cases, you will be notified within five days that additional information or clarification is necessary. For those with disabled status, approval time is 90 days or less if all required documentation is initially provided.

Types of Massachusetts Health Insurance

• Massachusetts has several health insurance programs based on income and circumstance, but can be pared down to two basic programs. MassHealth is primarily for no- and low-income individuals and families and provides full health benefits at little or no cost. Commonwealth Care and its variants are health care programs for those with low-to-medium incomes, have no access to employer-provided health insurance or are self-employed. All programs require monthly payments and co-pays for prescriptions and doctor visits except those that fall below the minimum income level established by the MassHealth.