Medicaid

Last updated: December 9, 2025 Recently updated

Medicaid Guide

Joint federal and state program providing health coverage for eligible low-income individuals

Not sure what coverage you need? Take our free 2-minute quiz to get personalized insurance recommendations.

What is Medicaid?

Medicaid provides essential protection for you and your family. Understanding how it works helps you make better coverage decisions.

Key Features

Coverage details and benefits
What’s typically included
Common exclusions to be aware of
Cost factors that affect premiums

Who Needs Medicaid?

Learn whether this type of coverage is right for your situation and how to determine the appropriate coverage amount.

How to Choose a Policy

Tips for comparing policies, understanding terms, and finding the best value for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about medicaid answered.

Having a Baby Checklist - Medicaid coverage for children

Medicare - Federal coverage at 65+ (dual eligibility possible)
Individual Health Insurance - Marketplace alternative if income increases

Insurance for New Immigrants - Medicaid eligibility for immigrants
Insurance for Single Parents - Coverage options for families
Find Your State Guide - State-specific Medicaid information

Official Resources

Medicaid.gov (opens in new tab) - Official federal Medicaid information
Healthcare.gov Medicaid/CHIP (opens in new tab) - Check eligibility and apply
Find Your State Medicaid Agency (opens in new tab) - State-specific programs and applications
Benefits.gov (opens in new tab) - Check eligibility for Medicaid and other programs
Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (opens in new tab) - Federal agency overseeing both programs

Data Sources

Medicaid data in this guide come from CMS Medicaid.gov (opens in new tab) , Kaiser Family Foundation (opens in new tab) , and state program data. Learn more about our data collection methods on our Methodology page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies for Medicaid?

Medicaid eligibility varies by state but generally covers low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly, and people with disabilities. In states that expanded Medicaid under the ACA, adults earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level typically qualify. Income and household size determine eligibility.

How do I apply for Medicaid?

Apply through your state’s Medicaid agency, Healthcare.gov, or local assistance offices. You can apply any time of year (no open enrollment periods). You’ll need to provide proof of income, residency, citizenship/immigration status, and household information. Many states offer online applications.

Can I have Medicaid and other health insurance at the same time?

Yes, Medicaid can be secondary coverage if you have other insurance (like employer coverage or Medicare). Medicaid typically pays after other insurance, covering remaining costs. Some people have both Medicare and Medicaid (called ‘dual eligible’), which can reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly.