Medicaid Rules for Monthly Income

Medicaid, like most government programs, has requirements based on complicated federal laws. Income requirements are different in every state, and they are based on the U.S. Federal Poverty Level, which changes every year.

Online Calculators

• Online Medicaid calculators

  Many states have online calculators, with which you can answer a few simple questions to find out if you are eligible for Medicaid. If you can't find a calculator specific to your state, go to Benefits.gov to use a federal online calculator.

Apply In Person

• Go to your nearest state office to apply.

  You will have to go to a local office to apply for Medicaid. Call the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), or go to their website at DHHS.gov to find out where you apply in your state. In some states, Medicaid even has a different name, such as Medi-Cal in California.

Prove You Are a Resident

• Proof of the right to live in the United States

  When you go to apply for Medicaid, you must show proof that you are either a legal citizen of the United States or that you have legal permission to live in the United States.

Required Documents

• Bring required documents.

  In applying, you are required to show:

  Proof of citizenship or legal right to live in the United States

  Proof of income

  Driver's license or state I.D

  Rent and utility bills

  A paystub, if employed

  It's a good idea to call your local office to make sure they don't require any additional documents.