Who is eligible for Medicaid?

Medicaid eligibility varies by state, as each state administers its own program in accordance with federal guidelines set by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Generally, Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income individuals and families. Key eligibility groups include low-income families, pregnant women, children, individuals with disabilities, and elderly individuals who require assistance. In many states, Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act allows coverage for adults aged 19 to 64 with incomes up to a certain percentage of the federal poverty level. Children and pregnant women typically have higher income thresholds for eligibility. Additionally, individuals who receive Supplemental Security Income are typically eligible for Medicaid, regardless of their income. To confirm eligibility, applicants should consider their household income, household size, and specific state requirements. Each state's Medicaid program may have unique rules, so it is valuable to check the relevant information on the state Medicaid agency's website. For more details, one can visit the official CMS website, which provides helpful guidelines and resources on Medicaid eligibility.