Medicaid Eligibility Calculator | Check If You Qualify

Medicaid income limits for 2026 vary by state, marital status, program type (Nursing Home, Home and Community Based Services, or Regular Medicaid), and eligibility category — such as seniors, disabled individuals, adults, children, or pregnant women. Limits are tied to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) or Federal Benefit Rate (FBR). For a full state-by-state breakdown with program-specific details, visit our Medicaid income eligibility guide.

Income Limits for Seniors and Disabled

Income limits for seniors (65+) and disabled individuals depend on the Medicaid program and marital status. Most states use the FBR ($967/month single, $1,450/month couple in 2025) or a percentage of it as a baseline. For a detailed comparison of how Medicare and Medicaid differ for seniors, see our dedicated guide. Seniors on Social Security may also qualify for SNAP food assistance alongside Medicaid.

• Institutional / Nursing Home Medicaid: Typically $2,901/month for singles and $5,802/month for couples (both applying) in most states. California, Hawaii, and Missouri have no hard income limit, but income above the Personal Needs Allowance ($30–$200/month) goes toward care costs.
• Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waivers: Often $2,901/month for singles and $5,802/month for couples, but some states have lower limits (e.g., Illinois: $1,304/month). Beneficiaries keep income for living expenses.
• Regular Medicaid (Aged, Blind, Disabled): Varies widely — from $235/month (Kentucky, single) to $1,801/month (California, single). Check your state’s specific limit using the calculator above or the income limits guide.

Income Limits for Other Groups

Other eligibility categories use Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI), based on FPL percentages. Use our FPL Calculator to find your exact percentage before applying.

• Medicaid Expansion (Adults, 19–64): In 40 states and D.C., adults qualify up to 138% FPL ($21,597/year for one person). Non-expansion states (e.g., Alabama, Florida, Texas) have stricter limits — often covering only parents or people with disabilities. See the full Medicaid income limits by state.
• Children / CHIP: Limits often reach 200–300% FPL or higher, varying by state. See our WIC income guidelines as well — children eligible for Medicaid may also qualify for WIC.
• Pregnant Women: Typically 185–200% FPL, with some states offering higher thresholds. Pregnant women should also check WIC eligibility — both programs can be received simultaneously.

State-Specific Income Limits (All Eligibility Categories)

The following table lists 2026 Medicaid income limits (monthly) for all eligibility categories across all U.S. states and Washington, D.C. Click on your state name to view the detailed state-specific guide.

Note: Income limits are estimates based on 2026 FPL guidelines and typical state policies. Non-expansion states have no ACA Adult expansion coverage. Children and Pregnant Women limits may vary (e.g., CHIP up to 300%+ FPL in some states). Confirm with your state’s Medicaid office or visit our full Medicaid income limits guide for precise figures. You can also find your state’s Medicaid contact number in our Medicaid phone number directory.

Options if Over the Income Limit

If your income exceeds the limit, you may still qualify through the following pathways. Contact your state’s Medicaid office (find the number in our Medicaid phone numbers guide) or consult a benefits specialist.

• Medically Needy Pathway: Available in some states, allowing you to “spend down” excess income on medical expenses to meet eligibility.
• Miller Trusts / Qualified Income Trusts: Redirect excess income to meet limits, commonly used for Nursing Home or HCBS Waiver programs.
• ACA Marketplace Plans: If you’re ineligible for Medicaid, you may qualify for subsidized health insurance through Special Enrollment Periods on the ACA Marketplace.
• Medicare: If you are 65 or older or have qualifying disabilities, check our Medicare eligibility guide. Also review the difference between Medicare and Medicaid.
• Certified Medicaid Planners: Professionals who can help navigate complex financial strategies to achieve eligibility.

2026 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) Reference Table

The income limits above are based on the following annual FPL thresholds. Use our FPL Calculator for a full table including all household sizes and FPL percentages.

Ready to apply? Visit our how to apply for Medicaid guide for step-by-step instructions by state, or find out where you can apply for Medicaid near you.