Medicaid Eligibility Calculator | Check If You Qualify

Use the Medicaid Eligibility Calculator above to get an instant estimate, then use this page to see the exact 2026 income limits behind that result. Medicaid income limits 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, see Medicaid income eligibility by state.

Key Takeaways

• A free Medicaid calculator — like the one above or our dedicated Medicaid eligibility calculator — uses your state, household size, and income to estimate eligibility in seconds, no signup required.
• Most adults in expansion states qualify with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, about $21,597/year for one person.
• Children, pregnant women, and seniors usually have separate — and often higher — income limits than other adults.
• Seniors and people with disabilities may also face an asset limit, typically $2,000 for a single applicant, in addition to the income limit.
• If your income is too high, options like the Medically Needy pathway or a Miller Trust may still help you qualify.

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 Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) — $967/month single, $1,450/month couple, in 2026 — or a percentage of it as a baseline. For a detailed comparison of how Medicare and Medicaid differ for seniors, see our dedicated breakdown. 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 with the Medicaid Eligibility Calculator above or the state-by-state income limits page.

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 your state name for the full state-specific breakdown.

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 complete state-by-state income limits 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 your state Medicaid agency’s phone number) 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 Medicare eligibility rules. 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.