Income Charts for Medicaid

Having the right health insurance is an important part of managing your health for you and your family. Medicaid is an insurance program that covers a range of different health care needs. It is usually offered to families and individuals who have incomes that fall below certain levels. If you're interested in Medicaid, then you'll need to know how income affects eligibility and what you need to do to apply.

Income levels for Medicaid eligibility differ by state. Generally speaking, it's aimed at those who earn less than 200 percent of the federal poverty level. However, some states offer more generous Medicaid eligibility thresholds. The best way to find out what you qualify for is to check with the Medicaid office in your state.

Income limits are based on the size of your family. A single person is considered a ‘unit’ when looking at income levels. As family size increases, the income eligibility requirements may become more generous.

For instance, in some states a family of four can make up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level to qualify. Other states may offer income levels up to 500 percent of the federal poverty level depending on the size of the family.

In addition to income levels, you’ll need to meet certain other requirements to qualify for Medicaid. These can vary state-by-state and you can learn more about the specifics by checking with your state’s Medicaid office.

To apply for Medicaid you should fill out an application. This can be done online or in person. Some states may require an interview to assess eligibility while other states are more lenient. You will need to provide proof of your income and other information to prove that you meet the criteria.

Once you’ve been approved, you’ll be responsible for understanding the specifics of your coverage so that you can make use of it correctly. Medicaid coverage can differ from one state to another, so take the time to learn what your coverage includes.

Income charts provide an outline of the criteria for qualifying for Medicaid. When combined with the other requirements, they are a useful tool to determine eligibility. Make sure to check with your state’s Medicaid office for more information on how to apply for coverage.