Medicaid Phone Number: Complete State-by-State Guide for 2026

Navigating Medicaid can feel overwhelming, especially when you need quick answers about eligibility, coverage, or a lost card. That’s why having your state’s Medicaid phone number handy is essential. This comprehensive 2025 guide provides a full list of every state’s main helpline, including hours, TTY options, and additional contacts like CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program).

Whether you’re applying for the first time, updating information, or troubleshooting an issue, these numbers connect you directly to experts who can help. For a quick eligibility check before calling, try the Medicaid Eligibility Calculator to see if you qualify based on income and household size.

Remember, Medicaid is a joint federal-state program, so services vary by state. Most calls are toll-free, and representatives are trained to assist with everything from enrollment to appeals. If you’re wondering about costs, is Medicaid free? In most cases, yes—it’s funded by federal and state dollars with no premiums for basic coverage, though some states charge small copays.

State-by-State Medicaid Phone Numbers

This section lists the primary Medicaid customer service numbers for all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia. We’ve included general hotlines, CHIP-specific lines (where separate), and local Department of Human Services contacts for in-person or regional support. All information is current as of November 21, 2025—always verify on your state’s official website.

Medicaid General Hotline

CHIP Phone Number (If Applicable)

CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) often shares numbers with Medicaid but has dedicated lines in some states for kids’ coverage.

Local Department of Human Services Contact

For in-person help or regional offices, contact your local Department of Human Services (DHS) or equivalent. Here’s a sampling; search “your county DHS” for exact locations.

What You Can Use the Medicaid Phone Number For

The Medicaid helpline is your one-stop shop for most program needs. Trained representatives can guide you through enrollment, explain benefits, and resolve issues—all without an appointment.

Check Your Medicaid Coverage Status

Call to verify if your application is approved, confirm active coverage dates, or get your member ID number for doctor visits. Have your Social Security number ready—they can pull up your record in minutes. If you’re waiting on a decision, they can provide status updates and estimated timelines (typically 45 days for standard applications, 15 for expedited).

Update Personal Information

Life changes fast—marriage, job loss, address move, birth of a child. Call to report these within 10 days to avoid overpayments or gaps in coverage. They’ll ask for proof (e.g., marriage certificate, pay stub) and process updates on the spot, often same-day for address changes.

Find Doctors Who Accept Medicaid

Need a primary care physician or specialist? Helpline staff can search their provider database for in-network doctors near you, including pediatricians, dentists, and therapists. They’ll confirm availability, languages spoken, and telehealth options. Some states partner with apps like Zocdoc for real-time bookings.

Information You Should Have When Calling Medicaid

To make your call efficient, gather these details beforehand—most representatives need them to access your account.

• Social Security Number (SSN): Primary ID for adults and children.
• Case Number or Medicaid ID: Found on your benefits card or approval letter.
• Date of Birth (DOB): Yours and household members’.
• Recent Mail: Account number from a Medicaid letter or bill.
• Proof of Changes: Pay stubs, lease, or birth certificate if updating info.

Calls average 10–20 minutes. If language is a barrier, request an interpreter (free in all states).

How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Medicaid Card

Lost your Medicaid card? Don’t panic—replacements are free and fast.

Required Documents

You’ll need to verify identity over the phone: SSN, DOB, and address. If in person, bring photo ID (driver’s license, passport) and proof of address (utility bill).

How Long Replacement Takes

• Phone Request: Instant digital version emailed or texted; physical card mails in 5–10 business days.
• In-Person: Same-day temporary card at local DHS office.

Call your state’s helpline (from the list above) to report it stolen— they’ll deactivate the old card to protect against fraud.

Medicaid Customer Service Hours

Most state Medicaid helplines operate 8 a.m.–5 p.m. local time, Monday–Friday, with some extending to 8 p.m. or weekends for high-volume states like California and Florida. After-hours, leave a voicemail for a callback the next business day. Emergencies (e.g., urgent care authorization) route to 24/7 lines. Always check your state’s website for holidays—many close early on December 24.

When You Should Call Your State Medicaid Office

Contact your helpline for these common scenarios:

• Eligibility Questions: Renewing coverage, adding family members, or income changes.
• Benefits Inquiries: Prescription coverage, vision/dental limits, or prior authorizations.
• Claims Issues: Denied services or billing errors—appeals start here.
• Card Problems: Lost/stolen, damaged, or activation help.
• Provider Changes: Switching doctors or finding specialists.

If it’s an emergency, go to the ER—Medicaid covers it retroactively.

Medicaid Phone Number FAQs

What is my state’s Medicaid phone number?

See the full table above—it’s sorted alphabetically by state. For example, Florida is 1-877-711-3662, and Texas is 2-1-1 (option 2). If you can’t find it, call the national CMS line at 1-877-267-2323 for redirection.

How do I apply for Medicaid by phone?

Call your state’s helpline to start the application—they’ll guide you through questions on income, household size, and assets. Have documents ready (pay stubs, ID). For step-by-step details, visit How to Apply for Medicaid. Processing takes 45 days max.

How do I check my Medicaid benefits?

Dial your state’s number and provide your ID—they’ll explain your plan (e.g., HMO vs. fee-for-service), covered services (doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions), and copays (usually $0–$4). Online portals like California’s Medi-Cal site let you view summaries too.

How do I change my Medicaid doctor?

Call the helpline to request a new primary care provider (PCP)—they’ll search for in-network options based on your zip code and needs (e.g., pediatrician for kids). Approval is usually immediate; new card mails if needed. In managed care states like Texas, changes are limited to once per month.

What if I moved to another state?

Report the move within 10 days to avoid coverage gaps. Call your old state’s helpline to end benefits, then the new state’s to apply (eligibility transfers but may vary). For income guidelines, see Income for Medicaid Eligibility.

Can I call Medicaid for dental or vision questions?

Yes—helplines connect you to specialists for finding dentists/optometrists who accept Medicaid, scheduling, or coverage limits (e.g., 2 cleanings/year). Some states have separate lines for behavioral health.

What if I lost my Medicaid card while traveling?

Call your home state’s helpline—they’ll deactivate it and issue a temporary digital version via email. Physical replacement mails to your address. If urgent, show ID at a provider for temporary coverage.

Is there a Medicaid number for emergencies?

For medical emergencies, call 911—Medicaid covers ER visits. For non-emergency urgent care authorization, use your state’s 24/7 line (e.g., California’s 1-800-541-5555).

How do I appeal a denied claim?

Call the helpline within 60 days—they’ll explain the denial reason (e.g., non-covered service) and file the appeal for free. Include doctor’s notes or bills as proof. 70% of appeals succeed.

Does Medicaid have a fraud reporting line?

Yes—call your state’s helpline or the national line 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477) anonymously to report provider billing fraud or identity theft.

This guide saves you time and stress—bookmark it and call today if needed. For free eligibility screening, use the Medicaid Eligibility Calculator.