Medicaid Eligibility Calculator
Check estimated Medicaid eligibility based on state, household size, income, and personal factors.
All Income Thresholds for Your State
| Category | Income Limit (% FPL) | Max Annual Income |
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Request a ToolHow to Use the Medicaid Eligibility Calculator
This calculator estimates whether you may qualify for Medicaid based on your state's income thresholds and your personal circumstances. Here is how to use it:
- Select your state. Medicaid eligibility rules vary significantly by state. States that expanded Medicaid under the ACA cover adults up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. Non-expansion states have much lower or no coverage for childless adults.
- Enter your household size. For Medicaid, your household generally includes you, your spouse (if filing jointly), and your tax dependents.
- Enter your annual income. Medicaid uses Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI), which is your adjusted gross income plus certain deductions added back. For most people, this is close to your total income before taxes.
- Enter your age. Children, infants, and adults have different eligibility thresholds. Children often qualify at higher income levels than adults.
- Check applicable boxes. Pregnant individuals, people with disabilities, and parents with dependent children often have higher or different eligibility thresholds.
About Medicaid Eligibility
Medicaid is a joint federal-state program that provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families. As of 2026, Medicaid covers approximately 77 million Americans. Eligibility is determined primarily by income as a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level, though other factors like age, disability status, and pregnancy also affect which category you fall into.
States that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act cover adults ages 19-64 with incomes up to 138% FPL (about $21,597 for an individual in 2026). Non-expansion states generally do not cover childless adults regardless of income, though parents may qualify at very low income levels. Children typically qualify at much higher income levels than adults in all states.
Why This Matters
Medicaid is the largest health insurance program in the United States, covering over 77 million people. In expansion states, adults earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify. Several states are implementing or considering Medicaid work requirements beginning in 2027, which may change eligibility for some enrollees. Understanding your state's current thresholds helps you plan for healthcare coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Medicaid income limit for 2026?
In the 40+ states that expanded Medicaid, the income limit for adults is 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. For 2026, that is $21,597 for an individual and $44,698 for a family of four. Non-expansion states have lower limits that vary by state and category. Children often qualify at 200-300% FPL or higher depending on the state.
What is the difference between Medicaid expansion and non-expansion states?
Medicaid expansion states cover all adults with incomes up to 138% FPL, regardless of whether they have children. Non-expansion states use older, category-based eligibility rules that generally cover children, pregnant individuals, and some parents, but often provide no coverage for childless adults regardless of how low their income is. As of 2026, about 40 states plus DC have expanded Medicaid.
What is MAGI income for Medicaid?
MAGI (Modified Adjusted Gross Income) is the income measure used for most Medicaid eligibility determinations. It includes your adjusted gross income plus tax-exempt foreign income, tax-exempt Social Security benefits, and tax-exempt interest. For most people, MAGI is similar to their total income before taxes. Medicaid MAGI rules do not count certain types of income like Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
How do I apply for Medicaid?
You can apply for Medicaid through your state's Medicaid agency, through Healthcare.gov (which will redirect you to your state's program), or in person at your local Department of Social Services office. Most states offer online applications. You can apply at any time during the year; there is no open enrollment period for Medicaid. Processing typically takes 45 days, or 90 days for disability-based applications.