What Is Medicaid and Who Qualifies in 2026?
Medicaid provides free or low-cost health insurance to over 80 million Americans. For most adults, you qualify at up to 138% of the federal poverty level in expansion states (~$20,120/year for a single person). Children, pregnant women, elderly, and disabled individuals may qualify at higher income levels.
Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health, dental, vision, and long-term care. In expansion states, almost all adults below 138% FPL qualify. Non-expansion states (TX, FL, GA, and others) have narrower eligibility.
Free Medicaid Tools
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Benefits Match Quiz
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See what you qualify for
Answer a few questions to see if you qualify for Medicaid and every other program your household may be eligible for.
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Medicaid Eligibility by State
138% FPL
Expansion state limit
See Medicaid income limits for your specific state, including non-expansion state rules.
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Medicaid Renewal Guide
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Renewals now required
Step-by-step guide to renewing Medicaid coverage and avoiding accidental termination.
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2026 Medicaid Income Limits (138% FPL — Expansion States)
2026 Medicaid Income Limits (138% FPL — Expansion States)
Expansion states cover adults to 138% FPL — non-expansion states vary
| Household Size | Monthly Limit (138% FPL) | Annual Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,677 | $20,120 |
| 2 people | $2,269 | $27,214 |
| 3 people | $2,861 | $34,307 |
| 4 people | $3,452 | $41,400 |
| 5 people | $4,044 | $48,528 |
| 6 people | $4,636 | $55,621 |
| 7 people | $5,228 | $62,714 |
| 8 people | $5,820 | $69,807 |
Non-expansion states (TX, FL, GA, and others) have much lower limits for adults. Children and pregnant women qualify at higher levels in all states.
How to Apply for Medicaid in 2026
1
Check Your State's Eligibility
Medicaid rules vary by state. Use our Benefits Match Quiz or visit your state Medicaid website.
Find My Coverage Options →
2
Apply Online
Apply at your state Medicaid website or healthcare.gov. Free, takes about 20 minutes.
Full Application Guide →
3
Gather Documents
You'll need proof of identity, residency, income, and citizenship or immigration status.
4
Receive Your Medicaid Card
If approved, your card arrives within 1–2 weeks. Coverage often begins the day you apply.
5
Renew Annually
Respond to renewal notices promptly — failure to renew will end your coverage.
Renewal Guide →
Not Sure What You Qualify For?
Take the free Benefits Match Quiz — see Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP, and different programs your household may qualify for.
All Medicaid Articles
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By State
Medicaid Eligibility by State 2026 — Income Limits and How to Apply
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Apply
How to Apply for Medicaid 2026 — Online Application Guide
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Compare
Medicaid vs Medicare — What's the Difference?
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Pregnancy
Medicaid for Pregnant Women — Coverage and How to Apply
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Renewal
Medicaid Renewal Guide 2026 — Don't Lose Your Coverage
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Covers
What Does Medicaid Cover? Complete 2026 Guide
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