Medicaid is confusing.
We make it simple.
Don't navigate the healthcare bureaucracy alone. Get free, expert guidance to see if you qualify, apply for coverage, or renew your existing Medicaid and CHIP benefits.
- 100% Free Assistance: We never charge you a fee for our help.
- Avoid losing your coverage during the Medicaid "Unwinding" process.
- Clear guidance on complex MAGI income and asset limits.
New Applications
Applying for Medicaid or CHIP (Children's Health Insurance) can involve dozens of forms. We help you submit it correctly the first time.
Coverage Renewals
Millions are losing coverage because they missed a notice in the mail. We assist with annual renewals and address updates to keep you protected.
Eligibility Screening
Not sure if your income is too high? Or if you qualify for "Spend-Down" medically needy programs? We help you understand the exact state guidelines.
Request Free Assistance
Connect with an expert who can help navigate your state's Medicaid program. No cost, no obligation.
Protecting Vulnerable Populations
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program designed to provide comprehensive medical coverage to those who need it most. Eligibility varies by state, but generally covers these key groups:
Low-Income Families
In states that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, adults earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level generally qualify for full health coverage.
Pregnant Women & Children
Mandatory coverage exists for pregnant women and children (often via CHIP) at significantly higher income thresholds to ensure healthy starts for families.
Seniors (Dual-Eligibles)
Seniors over 65 who have Medicare may also qualify for Medicaid (Medicare Savings Programs) to help pay for Medicare premiums, deductibles, and long-term nursing care.
Adults with Disabilities
Individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are often automatically eligible for Medicaid. Waiver programs also exist for those needing in-home care.
Medicaid Eligibility Estimator
Eligibility is primarily based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). Use this tool to see if your household income falls within the general Federal Poverty Level (FPL) limits for Medicaid or CHIP.
Household Information
Include yourself, your spouse, and dependents.
Before taxes are taken out.
Expansion states cover adults up to 138% of the poverty level.
Estimated Eligibility Status
Baseline Indicator
Likely Eligible
Based on your household size of 3 and income, you fall below the 138% FPL threshold in an expansion state. You likely qualify for full Medicaid benefits.
*Educational tool only. Uses 2024 Federal Poverty Guidelines for the contiguous 48 states. Actual eligibility is determined by your state Medicaid agency and includes complex MAGI calculations, asset tests (for certain populations), and citizenship requirements. Children may qualify for CHIP at much higher income levels even if adults do not.
Understanding the Healthcare Safety Net
It is incredibly common to confuse Medicaid, Medicare, and the ACA Marketplace. Compare them below to understand exactly which program is right for you.
| Program Feature | Medicaid | Medicare | ACA Marketplace |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who is it for? | Low Income & Disabled | Seniors (Age 65+) | Those needing to buy private insurance |
| Administered By | Your State Government | Federal Government | Federal/State Exchange |
| Cost to You | Free or extremely low cost | Premiums & Deductibles apply | Monthly Premiums (Subsidies available) |
| Covers Long-Term Nursing? | Yes (Primary payer) | No (Rehab only) | No |
Navigating the Bureaucracy
The rules around Medicaid eligibility are very complicated, and the application and review process is time-consuming. Assistance is highly recommended.
Income Calculation (MAGI)
Since the Affordable Care Act, most eligibility is determined by Modified Adjusted Gross Income. This standardizes the process but requires specific tax and income documentation.
Spend-Down Programs
If your income is slightly too high, many states offer "Medically Needy" or spend-down programs. If your medical bills lower your net income below the limit, you can still qualify.
Asset Protection for Seniors
For seniors needing long-term nursing care, Medicaid has strict asset limits (often $2,000). Improperly transferring property to family can result in strict penalties and denied coverage.
Medicaid Assistance FAQs
Clear answers to help you navigate your state's health coverage.
Do I have to pay to get help applying?
No. Official enrollment assistance from state agencies, certified application counselors, and navigators is entirely free. You should never pay someone to fill out a standard Medicaid application for you. (Note: Specialized elder law attorneys do charge for complex long-term care asset planning).
Can children get coverage even if parents don't qualify?
Yes. The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides low-cost health coverage to children in families that earn too much money to qualify for Medicaid but not enough to buy private insurance. The income limits for children are significantly higher than the limits for adults.
What is the Medicaid "Unwinding"?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, states were prohibited from removing anyone from Medicaid. That protection has ended, and states are now "unwinding" that rule by checking everyone's eligibility again. Millions of people are losing coverage simply because they missed a renewal letter in the mail. If you haven't updated your address with your state agency, do it immediately.