Applying for Medicaid in Nebraska does not have to be complicated. Whether you are a parent, a single adult, pregnant, or caring for someone with a disability, Nebraska Medicaid offers health coverage to residents who meet certain income and eligibility requirements. This guide walks you through every step of the process so you can get covered as quickly as possible. You can also use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for Medicaid and other assistance programs in just a few minutes.
For a broader look at all available programs in the state, visit our Nebraska Benefits Overview.
Who Is Eligible for Medicaid in Nebraska?
Nebraska expanded Medicaid in October 2020, which means more adults now qualify for coverage than ever before. You may be eligible if you fall into one of these categories:
- Adults ages 19 to 64 with income at or below 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL). This program is called Heritage Health Adult.
- Children age 18 and younger in families meeting income guidelines
- Pregnant women meeting income requirements
- Individuals age 65 and older who meet income and resource limits
- People with disabilities or visual impairments as defined by Social Security guidelines
- Parents or caretaker relatives of dependent children
- Former foster care youth
People who have Medicare may qualify for Medicaid in certain ways, but not through the Heritage Health Adult expansion program.
Nebraska Medicaid Income Limits
Income limits for Nebraska Medicaid vary by the type of coverage. The table below shows approximate annual income limits at 138% of the federal poverty level for the Heritage Health Adult expansion program. These figures are based on federal poverty guidelines and may be updated each year.
| Household Size | Approximate Annual Income Limit (138% FPL) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $20,783 |
| 2 | $28,208 |
| 3 | $35,632 |
| 4 | $43,056 |
| 5 | $50,481 |
| 6 | $57,905 |
| 7 | $65,330 |
| 8 | $72,754 |
Note: These figures are approximate and based on 2025 federal poverty guidelines. Actual thresholds may differ slightly. Check with Nebraska DHHS or use our screener for a personalized estimate.
Children and pregnant women may qualify at higher income levels through separate Medicaid and CHIP categories. The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) covers children who do not have other health insurance and do not qualify for standard Medicaid.
Resource Limits
Some Medicaid categories in Nebraska require applicants to meet resource (asset) limits in addition to income limits. According to Nebraska DHHS, resources that are not counted include your home, one motor vehicle, and property used to operate a trade or business. Beyond those excluded items, the resource limits are:
- One person: $4,000
- Two people: $6,000
- Each additional person: add $25
Children age 18 and younger and eligible pregnant women are not subject to a resource test.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Nebraska: Step by Step
Nebraska offers several ways to submit a Medicaid application. You do not need to wait for a special enrollment period because Medicaid applications are accepted year round.
Step 1: Gather Your Information
Before you begin, collect the following documents and details for everyone in your household who needs coverage:
- Social Security numbers
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer)
- Proof of Nebraska residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or ID with your address)
- Date of birth and citizenship or immigration status documentation
- Information about any current health insurance
- Bank account and asset information (for categories that have resource limits)
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
You can apply using any of these methods:
Online (fastest option) Visit iServe Nebraska to create an account and submit your application electronically. The online portal is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
By Phone Call one of the following numbers, available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.:
- Statewide toll-free: (855) 632-7633
- Lincoln area: (402) 473-7000
- Omaha area: (402) 595-1178
A representative can help you apply over the phone or request a paper application.
In Person Visit your local Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) office. A caseworker can help you complete and submit your application on the spot.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Complete all required fields on the application. Double check that the information you provide is accurate because errors can delay processing. If you are applying online through iServe, you can save your progress and return later.
Step 4: Complete Any Requested Verification
After you submit your application, Nebraska DHHS may contact you to verify certain information. Respond promptly to any requests for additional documents. Common verification items include proof of income, proof of identity, and proof of residency.
Step 5: Receive Your Determination
Nebraska DHHS will review your application and send you a notice of their decision. For most categories, you can expect a determination within 45 days. For applications based on disability, the process may take up to 90 days.
If you are approved, you will receive information about your Heritage Health managed care plan and how to access services.
What Does Nebraska Medicaid Cover?
Nebraska Medicaid covers a wide range of health services, including:
- Doctor's office visits and specialist care
- Hospital inpatient and outpatient services
- Prescription medications
- Dental care
- Vision care
- Over-the-counter medications (for Heritage Health Adult members)
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Preventive care and screenings
- Lab work and diagnostic imaging
- Maternity and newborn care
- Emergency services
The Heritage Health Adult expansion program provides the same comprehensive benefits, including dental, vision, and over-the-counter medication coverage.
Important Information for Families with Children
Nebraska Medicaid offers 12 months of continuous eligibility for children. This means that once a child is found eligible, coverage continues for a full year regardless of changes in family income during that period. This policy helps prevent gaps in coverage for kids.
The 599 CHIP program also provides coverage for unborn children of pregnant women who are otherwise not eligible for Medicaid or CHIP.
What to Do If You Are Denied
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Your denial notice will include instructions on how to request a hearing. Key steps include:
- Read your notice carefully to understand the reason for denial
- File your appeal within 90 days of receiving the denial notice
- Gather supporting documents that address the reason for denial
- Attend your hearing and present your case
You may also want to contact a local legal aid organization for assistance with your appeal.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply as soon as possible. There is no enrollment period for Medicaid, so do not wait.
- Be honest and thorough. Providing accurate information speeds up the process.
- Keep copies of everything. Save copies of your application and all documents you submit.
- Respond quickly to requests. If DHHS asks for additional information, provide it right away to avoid delays.
- Check your eligibility for other programs. Many people who qualify for Medicaid also qualify for SNAP, LIHEAP, and other assistance. Use our free screener to check all programs at once.
Enable Savings Accounts
Nebraska residents who are blind or have a disability that began before age 26 may be eligible for an Enable savings account. These accounts allow you to save up to $100,000 without it affecting your Medicaid eligibility. Learn more at the Enable Savings website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid in Nebraska?
Most applications are processed within 45 days. If your application involves a disability determination, it may take up to 90 days.
Can I apply for Nebraska Medicaid at any time?
Yes. Unlike marketplace health insurance, Medicaid does not have an open enrollment period. You can apply any day of the year.
What is Heritage Health Adult?
Heritage Health Adult is the name of Nebraska's Medicaid expansion program for adults ages 19 to 64 with income at or below 138% of the federal poverty level. It includes dental, vision, and over-the-counter medication benefits.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to qualify?
U.S. citizens and certain qualified immigrants may be eligible. Undocumented immigrants generally do not qualify, though emergency Medicaid may be available in certain situations. Nebraska also offers the 599 CHIP program for unborn children regardless of the mother's immigration status.
What if my income changes after I am approved?
You are required to report changes in income, household size, and other circumstances to DHHS. Your eligibility will be reviewed at your annual renewal. For children, 12 months of continuous eligibility apply regardless of income changes.
Can I have other insurance and still qualify for Medicaid?
In some cases, yes. Medicaid can work alongside other insurance as a secondary payer. However, CHIP is specifically for children who do not have other health insurance.
Where can I check if I qualify before applying?
Use our free eligibility screener to get a quick estimate of the programs you may qualify for in Nebraska. It only takes a few minutes and covers Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP, and more.
Next Steps
Ready to find out if you qualify? Check your eligibility now using our free screening tool. It covers Medicaid and 10 other assistance programs available in Nebraska, and it takes just a few minutes to complete.
If you prefer to apply directly, visit iServe Nebraska or call (855) 632-7633 to get started today.
