Medicaid
Free or low-cost health coverage for low-income adults, children, pregnant people, and people with disabilities.
What Medicaid covers
Doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, mental health services, dental (in most states), vision, long-term care, and preventive care. There is no premium for most enrollees. Copayments are minimal.
Who qualifies
In the 40 states + DC that expanded Medicaid under the ACA, adults 19–64 with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level ($20,783/year for a single person in 2026) qualify regardless of family status. In non-expansion states, adults generally need to be a parent, pregnant, disabled, or elderly to qualify.
Key 2026/27 changes
- Work requirements (80 hours/month) begin December 31, 2026 for expansion adults in states implementing them
- Renewals move to every 6 months for expansion adults from December 31, 2026
Apply at HealthCare.gov year-round Medicaid application guide