If you live in Missouri and need affordable health coverage, understanding Medicaid eligibility can help you access critical benefits for yourself and your family. Missouri expanded Medicaid in 2021, which means more adults now qualify for coverage than ever before. Medicaid in Missouri is called MO HealthNet, and it covers over 1.2 million residents across the state. This guide explains exactly who qualifies, what the income limits are for 2026, and how to apply.
Not sure if you qualify? Use our free eligibility screener to check in minutes, or visit our Missouri Benefits Overview for a full look at all available programs.
Who Qualifies for MO HealthNet (Missouri Medicaid) in 2026?
Since Missouri expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act in October 2021, eligibility is broader than in non-expansion states. The following groups may qualify for MO HealthNet coverage:
- Expansion adults (ages 19 to 64) with household income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
- Parents and caretaker relatives with dependent children
- Children under age 1 in families with income up to 196% FPL
- Children ages 1 to 18 in families with income up to 148% FPL
- Pregnant women with household income up to 196% FPL
- Seniors age 65 and older who are aged or disabled and meet income and asset requirements
- People who are blind with income up to 100% FPL
- People with disabilities who meet medical and financial criteria
Missouri also operates the State Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), known as MO HealthNet for Kids, which covers children in families with income up to 300% FPL who do not qualify for standard Medicaid.
2026 MO HealthNet Income Limits by Category
Missouri Medicaid income limits are based on a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The figures below come from the official Missouri Department of Social Services benefit program income limits chart, effective as of October 1, 2025. These limits are expressed as maximum annual income unless otherwise noted.
MO HealthNet for Expansion Adults (138% FPL)
This category covers adults ages 19 to 64 who do not qualify under other Medicaid categories.
| Household Size | Maximum Annual Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $20,814 |
| 2 | $28,129 |
| 3 | $35,444 |
| 4 | $42,759 |
| 5 | $50,074 |
| 6 | $57,389 |
| 7 | $64,704 |
| 8 | $72,019 |
Note: The official Missouri DSS chart lists these limits at 133% FPL. However, a built-in 5% income disregard effectively raises the threshold to approximately 138% FPL, consistent with the Affordable Care Act standard.
MO HealthNet for Children and Pregnant Women
| Category | FPL Threshold | Annual Income (Family of 3) |
|---|---|---|
| Infants under age 1 | 196% FPL | $52,234 |
| Children ages 1 to 18 | 148% FPL | $39,442 |
| Pregnant women | 196% FPL | $52,234 |
| CHIP (children) | 300% FPL | $79,950 |
| Show Me Healthy Babies (unborn child coverage) | 300% FPL | $79,950 |
Pregnant women count the unborn child as part of their household size. For example, a pregnant woman with one fetus and no other children counts as a household of two for eligibility purposes.
MO HealthNet for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled
These categories use different income standards and may also require meeting asset limits.
| Category | FPL Threshold | Annual Income (Individual) |
|---|---|---|
| Aged and Disabled | 85% FPL | $13,303 |
| Blind | 100% FPL | $15,650 |
| Ticket to Work Health Assurance | 300% FPL | $46,950 |
For long-term care Medicaid (nursing home coverage), the asset limit for a single applicant is $6,068.80 in 2026. Married couples where one spouse is applying have a community spouse resource allowance of up to $162,660.
Medicare Savings Programs
Missouri offers programs to help Medicare beneficiaries with premiums and cost-sharing:
| Program | FPL Threshold | Annual Income (Individual) |
|---|---|---|
| Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) | 100% FPL | $15,650 |
| Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) | 135% FPL | $21,127 |
How to Apply for Missouri Medicaid (MO HealthNet)
Applying for MO HealthNet is free, and you can start the process in several ways. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before you begin, 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 Missouri residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or mail with your address)
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status
- Information about current health coverage, if any
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
You can apply through any of these channels:
- Online: Visit myDSS.mo.gov to create an account and submit your application electronically
- By phone: Call 1-855-373-4636 (MO HealthNet hotline)
- In person: Visit your local Family Support Division (FSD) office
- Through HealthCare.gov: You can also apply via the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov, which will route eligible applicants to MO HealthNet
Step 3: Complete and Submit Your Application
Fill out all required sections accurately. If you apply online through myDSS, you can upload documents directly. If you apply by mail or in person, bring copies of your supporting documents.
Step 4: Attend Your Interview (If Required)
Some applicants may be contacted for a phone or in-person interview. Not all categories require an interview, but respond promptly to any requests from the Family Support Division.
Step 5: Receive Your Determination
Missouri is required to process applications within 45 days (90 days for disability-based applications). You will receive a notice by mail with your eligibility determination. If approved, your MO HealthNet coverage may be effective retroactively up to three months before your application date, as long as you would have been eligible during that time.
Step 6: If Denied, Know Your Rights
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. The denial notice will include instructions on how to request a hearing. You generally have 90 days to file an appeal.
What Does MO HealthNet Cover?
Missouri Medicaid covers a wide range of services, including:
- Doctor visits and preventive care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Prescription medications
- Mental health and substance use disorder treatment
- Lab tests and imaging
- Maternity and newborn care
- Dental and vision care for children
- Home and community-based services for eligible seniors and people with disabilities
- Transportation to medical appointments
Adults covered through Medicaid expansion receive the full Essential Health Benefits package required under the Affordable Care Act.
Missouri Medicaid Expansion: What You Need to Know
Missouri voters approved Medicaid expansion through a ballot measure in August 2020, and coverage under the expansion took effect on October 1, 2021. This extended MO HealthNet to adults ages 19 to 64 with household income at or below 138% FPL who previously had no pathway to Medicaid coverage.
As of mid-2025, approximately 350,000 Missourians were enrolled through the Medicaid expansion. The federal government pays 90% of the cost of covering expansion enrollees, with Missouri covering the remaining 10%.
It is worth noting that federal Medicaid funding is currently a subject of national policy discussions. Changes at the federal level could affect funding structures in the coming years. However, as of early 2026, Missouri's Medicaid expansion remains fully in effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for Missouri Medicaid in 2026?
For expansion adults (ages 19 to 64), the income limit is approximately 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. For a single individual, that is $20,814 per year. For a family of four, the limit is $42,759 per year. Other categories have different limits. See the income tables above for details.
Is Missouri a Medicaid expansion state?
Yes. Missouri expanded Medicaid in October 2021 after voters approved a ballot measure in 2020. Adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to 138% FPL now qualify for coverage.
What is the difference between MO HealthNet and Medicaid?
MO HealthNet is simply the name Missouri uses for its Medicaid program. They are the same program. MO HealthNet is administered by the Missouri Department of Social Services.
Can I apply for Missouri Medicaid online?
Yes. You can apply online at myDSS.mo.gov or through HealthCare.gov. You can also apply by phone at 1-855-373-4636 or in person at a local Family Support Division office.
How long does it take to get approved for MO HealthNet?
Missouri must process applications within 45 days for most categories, or 90 days for disability-related applications. However, processing times can vary. If your application is taking longer than expected, contact the Family Support Division at 1-855-373-4636 for a status update.
Does Missouri Medicaid cover dental and vision?
MO HealthNet provides dental and vision coverage for children. For adults, dental benefits are limited and primarily cover emergency extractions. Vision benefits for adults are also limited. Check with MO HealthNet directly for the most current details on adult dental and vision coverage.
What happens if I earn slightly more than the income limit?
If your income is just above the Medicaid limit, you may still have options. Children in families earning up to 300% FPL may qualify for CHIP. Adults may be eligible for subsidized health insurance through the ACA Marketplace at HealthCare.gov. Use our free eligibility screener to see all the programs you may qualify for.
Can I get Medicaid if I am pregnant in Missouri?
Yes. Pregnant women in Missouri qualify for MO HealthNet with household income up to 196% FPL. For a household of two, that is $41,454 per year. Coverage extends for 12 months after the baby is born, thanks to legislation passed in 2023.
Additional Resources
- Missouri Department of Social Services (myDSS) for applications and account management
- Missouri Benefit Program Income Limits for the latest official income charts
- MO HealthNet hotline: 1-855-373-4636
- HealthCare.gov for marketplace coverage options
Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for MO HealthNet and other programs like SNAP, LIHEAP, and WIC in just a few minutes.
