Healthcare can be expensive in the U.S., but the Medicaid program helps reduce this burden for millions of low-income Americans. Whether you’re a child, pregnant woman, elderly person, or living with a disability, Medicaid in 2024 offers important health benefits that make medical care affordable or even free.
This guide will explain who can apply, how much coverage you can get, and how to claim Medicaid benefits easily.
What is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a government health insurance program that helps people with low income get access to medical care. It is managed jointly by the U.S. federal and state governments. Unlike Medicare, which mainly supports people above 65 years, Medicaid helps people of all age groups—including children, pregnant women, disabled people, and seniors with limited income.
Who is Eligible for Medicaid in 2024?
To qualify for Medicaid, your eligibility is checked based on your income, family size, age, and health condition. It also depends on whether your state has accepted the Medicaid Expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
Income Limits
In states with expanded Medicaid, you can qualify if your income is up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
As of 2024:
- For an individual: Up to $20,120 per year
- For a family of four: Up to $41,400 per year
Special Groups That May Qualify
- Children under 18: Most states offer Medicaid for kids in low-income families.
- Pregnant women: Eligible with incomes up to 138%-200% of the FPL, depending on the state.
- Seniors (65+): Medicaid helps with nursing care, home care, and Medicare costs.
- Disabled individuals: Those with physical or mental disabilities can qualify even with higher income through special programs.
- Immigrants: Legal residents can apply after five years; some exceptions apply for pregnant women and children.
What Does Medicaid Cover?
Medicaid offers full health coverage, including doctor visits, hospital stays, medicines, and more. Some benefits are required in all states, while others depend on where you live.
Mandatory Benefits
- Hospital care (inpatient and outpatient)
- Doctor visits and specialist services
- Maternity and newborn care
- Mental health and therapy services
- Prescription medicines
- Emergency care
- X-rays and lab tests
- Long-term care (like nursing homes)
Optional Benefits (may vary by state)
- Dental care
- Vision checkups and glasses
- Non-emergency transport
- Home care and personal support
How to Apply for Medicaid in 2024
You can apply for Medicaid easily using any of these four ways:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Visit your state Medicaid website or use HealthCare.gov to see if you qualify.
Step 2: Gather Documents
You’ll need:
- Income proof (salary slips or tax returns)
- Social Security Number
- Citizenship or immigration documents
- Birth certificates for family members
- Medical proof if applying due to disability
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Online: Visit your state’s Medicaid website or HealthCare.gov
- In-person: Go to your nearest Medicaid office
- By phone: Many states offer call-in services
- By mail: Fill and send a paper form if available
Step 4: Wait for Approval
You’ll usually get a response in 30 to 45 days. If documents are missing, the office may contact you.
Step 5: Start Using Medicaid
Once approved, you’ll get a Medicaid card. If you’re assigned to a Managed Care Plan, you’ll choose a primary care doctor from a given list.
Medicaid: Managed Care vs Fee-for-Service
Some states use Managed Care, where private insurance companies manage your treatment. You choose doctors from their list and get coordinated services.
Other states use Fee-for-Service (FFS), where you can go to any doctor that accepts Medicaid. You may have more choice, but paperwork might be more.
Medicaid + Medicare: Dual Eligibility
Some people qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare, known as dual eligibles. In this case, Medicaid helps you cover the parts that Medicare doesn’t—like copayments, deductibles, and even some medicines.
CHIP – Insurance for Kids
Families that earn too much for Medicaid can apply for CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program). It covers doctor visits, emergency care, vaccinations, and more for children up to 19 years.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Not submitting all documents
- Not updating income changes
- Assuming you’re not eligible without checking
- Missing renewal deadlines
Medicaid Expansion in 2024
As of 2024, 38 states have expanded Medicaid, giving more adults access to health coverage. Expansion has helped reduce hospital costs and improved health across states. Non-expansion states, however, have more rules and cover fewer people.
Medicaid is one of the best health coverage programs for low-income individuals and families in the U.S. Whether you’re applying for yourself or your family, knowing the eligibility, benefits, and application process is the first step. In 2024, with updated income limits and expanded coverage in most states, more people than ever can get the care they need without worrying about high costs.
