What Are the Requirements to Qualify for Medicaid?

If you cannot afford the high costs of health care coverage, Medicaid can help. Medicaid is federally funded health insurance offered to low-income individuals and families. Each state has its own Medicaid program with specific income and eligibility requirements. While the specifics vary, the general criteria are the same regardless of the state.

Citizenship and Residency

• To be eligible for Medicaid, you must a U.S. citizen or legal immigrant. Proper documentation is required. You will need to submit a birth certificate, Social Security card, government-issued identification or naturalization documents for all household members applying for coverage. Illegal aliens or immigrants without adequate paperwork can still apply for emergency Medicaid with limited services. You will also need to reside in the state where you are applying for coverage. Even though Medicaid is a federal program, it does not transfer from state to state. If you relocate, you must complete a new application.

Eligibility Groups

• Medicaid is open to certain eligibility groups. Infants, children, parents or legal guardians of children, pregnant women, elderly and disabled or blind can apply for Medicaid. The program also provides nursing home care and hospice, when necessary. SSI recipients are also eligible for Medicaid. If you receive Medicare and fall within the income guidelines for Medicaid, you may be able to use Medicaid to supplement your coverage.

Income

• Income restrictions are based on the federal poverty level and number of household members. Each eligibility group is allowed to earn a certain percentage of the poverty level. Earned and unearned income is included. Unearned income can include Social Security benefits, child support or rental property income. Earned income is typically wages you are paid through employment. Pregnant women and and parents with infants typically are able to earn more than other eligibility groups, since coverage is for a limited period of time.

Assets

• The amount of countable assets a person or family is allowed to maintain is limited. Fortunately, some assets are exempt. Your home, vehicle, personal possessions and pre-paid funeral expenses are allowed. Liquid assets including cash, bank accounts and non-homestead-exempt properties, are countable assets. Generally, the asset limit is $2,000 per person or $3,000 per family.