How do I Qualify for MinnesotaCare Medical?

Approximately 480,000 Minnesota residents didn't have health insurance in 2009, according to the results of a survey by the University of Minnesota School of Public Health and the Minnesota Department of Health. If you are among the uninsured Minnesotans, you may qualify for MinnesotaCare medical coverage. In this public program, enrollees pay a monthly premium on a sliding scale. Federal and state taxes help fund the cost beyond the premiums. Coverage is available to pregnant women, children, families, childless adults and senior citizens who qualify.

Instructions

• 1

  Pregnant women are eligible for MinnesotaCare.

  Obtain an application for MinnesotaCare from your county human services office, by contacting the Minnesota Health Programs office or by downloading it from the Minnesota Department of Human Services website. Read the information in the application documents carefully, as they contain details regarding income, assets and other eligibility rules for MinnesotaCare.

• 2

  Complete the application. Fill out each section in its entirety. The application form requires details about you, other members of your household and your financial resources.

• 3

  Gather documentation necessary to support your application. This varies, but includes proof of identity and may require proof of citizenship or immigration status. You may need your birth certificate or U.S. passport. Recent pay stubs and bank statements are also required. If you are pregnant, you need to provide a statement from your physician.

• 4

  Mail or take your completed application to your county human services office or to the state MinnesotaCare office. The application forms include office addresses and phone numbers. The office will review the application and notify you by mail if you're eligible. It may also ask for additional information by mail before it makes a decision.

• 5

  Sign up for a health care plan once you receive notice that you qualify for MinnesotaCare. You must pick coverage from plans offered by participating insurers in your county and make arrangements to pay your premiums each month.