Colorado offers free or low cost health coverage through its Medicaid program, officially called Health First Colorado. If you live in Colorado and are wondering whether you or your family might qualify, this guide covers everything you need to know about Colorado Medicaid eligibility in 2026, including income limits, how to apply, and what benefits are included.
Colorado expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act back in 2014, which means more residents qualify for coverage than in many other states. Whether you are an adult without children, a parent, pregnant, or applying on behalf of your kids, there is likely a pathway to coverage if your income falls within the limits.
Not sure if you qualify? Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for Medicaid and other assistance programs in just a few minutes.
What Is Health First Colorado?
Health First Colorado is the official name for Colorado's Medicaid program. It is administered by the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) and provides free or low cost health insurance to eligible residents. The program covers doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, mental health services, dental care, and much more.
In addition to standard Medicaid, Colorado also offers Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+), which covers children and pregnant women whose incomes are too high for Medicaid but who still need affordable coverage.
2026 Income Limits for Colorado Medicaid
Eligibility for Health First Colorado is based on your household size and your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). The income limits are tied to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), which is updated each year. The 2026 FPL for a single individual in the continental United States is $15,960 per year.
Adults (Ages 19 to 64)
Adults qualify for Health First Colorado with household income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. This includes a built in 5% income disregard.
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $22,025 | $1,835 |
| 2 | $29,863 | $2,489 |
| 3 | $37,702 | $3,142 |
| 4 | $45,540 | $3,795 |
| 5 | $53,378 | $4,448 |
| 6 | $61,217 | $5,101 |
For each additional household member, add approximately $7,838 per year.
Children (Ages 0 to 18)
Children qualify for Medicaid with family income up to 147% of FPL. Children in families with higher incomes (up to 265% of FPL) may qualify for CHP+ instead.
| Household Size | Medicaid Limit (147% FPL) | CHP+ Limit (265% FPL) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $31,811 | $57,346 |
| 3 | $40,160 | $72,398 |
| 4 | $48,510 | $87,450 |
| 5 | $56,859 | $102,502 |
Pregnant Women
Pregnant women qualify for Medicaid with family income up to 200% of FPL. Those with family income up to 265% of FPL may qualify for CHP+. Coverage continues for 12 months after the birth of the child.
| Household Size | Medicaid Limit (200% FPL) | CHP+ Limit (265% FPL) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $43,280 | $57,346 |
| 3 | $54,640 | $72,398 |
| 4 | $66,000 | $87,450 |
Parents and Caretaker Relatives
Parents and caretaker relatives have a lower income threshold of 68% of FPL. However, if income exceeds this threshold, they may still qualify under the adult expansion category (138% FPL).
Elderly and Disabled Individuals
Adults age 65 and older and individuals with disabilities may qualify for Medicaid through different pathways that include both income and asset tests. For 2026, the asset limit is generally $2,000 for an individual. Income limits and rules vary depending on the specific program (such as nursing home Medicaid or Home and Community Based Services waivers). Contact the Colorado PEAK helpline at 1-800-221-3943 for details on these programs.
Who Qualifies for Colorado Medicaid in 2026?
To be eligible for Health First Colorado, you must meet the following general requirements:
- Residency: You must live in Colorado
- Citizenship or immigration status: You must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or have qualifying immigration status. As of 2025, Colorado also extends coverage to income eligible children and pregnant women regardless of immigration status.
- Income: Your household income must fall within the limits described above
- Not currently incarcerated: You cannot be currently incarcerated in a federal, state, or local facility (though you may apply before release)
There is no enrollment period for Medicaid. You can apply any time of the year.
How to Apply for Colorado Medicaid: Step by Step
Applying for Health First Colorado is straightforward. Here is how to do it:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before you start, collect the following:
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer)
- Proof of Colorado residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or mail with your address)
- Identification (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
- Immigration documents if applicable
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
You have several ways to apply:
Online (recommended): Visit Colorado PEAK to create an account and submit your application. This is the fastest method and allows you to track your application status online.
By phone: Call 1-800-221-3943 (Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM Mountain Time) to apply over the phone with the help of a representative.
In person: Visit your local county Department of Human Services office to apply in person.
By mail: Download an application from the Colorado PEAK website, fill it out, and mail it to your county DHS office.
Step 3: Complete the Application
The application will ask about your household size, income, expenses, and other details. Answer all questions as accurately as possible. If applying online, the system will guide you through each section.
Step 4: Submit and Wait for a Decision
After submitting your application, you will typically receive a decision within 45 days (or 90 days for disability related applications). You can check your application status online through Colorado PEAK.
Step 5: Choose a Health Plan
If approved, you will need to select a Regional Accountable Entity (RAE) and a primary care provider. Colorado will send you information about your options. If you do not choose a plan, one will be assigned to you.
What Does Health First Colorado Cover?
Health First Colorado provides comprehensive coverage, including:
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Prescription drugs
- Mental health and substance use treatment
- Dental care (through the Delta Dental of Colorado network)
- Vision care and eyeglasses
- Lab tests and imaging
- Maternity and newborn care
- Preventive care and immunizations
- Emergency services
- Transportation to and from medical appointments (through non-emergency medical transportation)
Most services are available at no cost. Some adults may have small copays for certain services, but these are generally very low.
Important Dates and Deadlines for 2026
- Medicaid applications: Accepted year round with no enrollment period
- CHP+ applications: Also accepted year round
- ACA Marketplace (Connect for Health Colorado): Open enrollment for private insurance typically runs from November 1 through January 15. If you do not qualify for Medicaid, you may be eligible for subsidized coverage through Connect for Health Colorado.
- LEAP (energy assistance): The application period for the 2025 to 2026 season runs from November 1, 2025 through April 30, 2026
Other Benefits You May Qualify For
If you qualify for Colorado Medicaid, you may also be eligible for other assistance programs. Colorado uses the Colorado PEAK portal as a one stop shop for multiple programs, including:
- SNAP (food assistance): Helps pay for groceries. Income limit is 130% of FPL.
- LEAP (energy assistance): Helps pay heating bills during winter months. Income limit is 60% of State Median Income.
- Colorado Works (TANF): Cash assistance for families with children.
- CCCAP (childcare assistance): Helps pay for childcare so parents can work or attend school. Income limit is 85% of State Median Income.
- WIC: Nutrition assistance for pregnant women and children up to age 5. Income limit is 185% of FPL.
Check your eligibility for all programs with our free screening tool, or visit Colorado Benefits Overview for a complete guide to programs available in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for Colorado Medicaid at any time?
Yes. Unlike private health insurance through the ACA Marketplace, Medicaid has no open enrollment period. You can apply any day of the year.
How long does it take to get approved?
Most applications are processed within 45 days. Disability related applications may take up to 90 days.
What if my income is too high for Medicaid?
If your income exceeds Medicaid limits, you may qualify for subsidized health insurance through Connect for Health Colorado, the state's ACA Marketplace. You may also qualify for CHP+ if you are applying for a child or are pregnant.
Does Colorado Medicaid cover dental?
Yes. Health First Colorado includes dental benefits for both adults and children through the Delta Dental of Colorado network.
Can undocumented immigrants get Medicaid in Colorado?
As of 2025, Colorado extends Medicaid and CHP+ coverage to income eligible children and pregnant women regardless of immigration status. Other undocumented adults are generally not eligible for full Medicaid coverage but may receive emergency Medicaid services.
What is the difference between Health First Colorado and CHP+?
Health First Colorado is Colorado's Medicaid program for low income residents. CHP+ (Child Health Plan Plus) is for children and pregnant women whose incomes are too high for Medicaid but still below 265% of FPL. CHP+ has small premiums and copays, while Medicaid is generally free.
Will my Medicaid coverage affect my immigration status?
Using Medicaid generally does not affect immigration applications or count as a "public charge." However, immigration rules can be complex. Consult an immigration attorney if you have concerns.
How do I renew my Colorado Medicaid coverage?
Health First Colorado requires annual renewal. You will receive a renewal notice before your coverage period ends. You can renew online through Colorado PEAK, by phone, or through your county DHS office. Make sure to respond promptly to avoid a gap in coverage.
Get Started Today
Finding out whether you qualify for Health First Colorado takes just a few minutes. Use our free eligibility screener to check your eligibility for Medicaid and dozens of other assistance programs available in Colorado. You could save thousands of dollars on healthcare costs each year.
For more information about all available programs in Colorado, visit our Colorado Benefits Overview page.
