New Jersey offers some of the most accessible Medicaid coverage in the country through its NJ FamilyCare program. As an expansion state under the Affordable Care Act, New Jersey covers adults, children, pregnant individuals, and seniors at income levels that are often higher than the federal minimum. If you live in New Jersey and are wondering whether you or your family might qualify for free or low-cost health coverage in 2026, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
Not sure if you qualify? Check your eligibility in minutes with our free screener.
What Is NJ FamilyCare?
NJ FamilyCare is New Jersey's umbrella program for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). It provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible residents, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health services, dental care for children, and more.
The program is administered by the New Jersey Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS) under the Department of Human Services. Unlike some states that have not expanded Medicaid, New Jersey expanded coverage under the ACA, which means more adults qualify based on income alone without needing to meet additional categorical requirements like disability or pregnancy.
One standout feature: all children under 19 in New Jersey are eligible for NJ FamilyCare regardless of immigration status, a policy that took effect in January 2023.
NJ FamilyCare Income Limits for 2026
Eligibility is primarily based on your household size and Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). The income thresholds are tied to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), which is updated each year. The table below reflects current 2026 guidelines.
Adults Ages 19 to 64 (138% FPL)
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,772 | $21,264 |
| 2 | $2,397 | $28,764 |
| 3 | $3,021 | $36,252 |
| 4 | $3,667 | $44,004 |
| 5 | $4,290 | $51,480 |
| 6 | $4,914 | $58,968 |
Based on 138% of the 2025 Federal Poverty Level guidelines. The 2026 FPL update is typically published in January and may adjust these figures slightly. Verify current amounts at njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us.
Children Under 19
Children have higher income thresholds than adults:
| Coverage Level | FPL Percentage | Monthly Limit (Family of 4) |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid | 147% FPL | $3,918 |
| CHIP (NJ FamilyCare) | 355% FPL | $9,459 |
This means a family of four earning up to approximately $113,500 per year could still qualify their children for CHIP coverage. CHIP premiums are currently suspended in New Jersey, though small co-pays of $5 to $35 may apply depending on the service.
Pregnant Individuals (200% FPL)
Pregnant women in New Jersey qualify for NJ FamilyCare at incomes up to 200% of the FPL. For a household of two, that comes out to roughly $3,474 per month or about $41,680 per year. Coverage includes prenatal care, delivery, and postpartum services.
Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) Medicaid
Seniors 65 and older and individuals with disabilities have separate eligibility rules:
- Income limit: 100% FPL (approximately $1,304 per month for an individual)
- Resource limit: $4,000 for an individual
- Methodology: Uses traditional income counting rather than MAGI
This category also includes pathways to coverage for individuals who need long-term care services, including nursing home care and home and community-based services.
Who Qualifies for NJ FamilyCare?
To be eligible, you must meet these basic requirements:
- Residency: You must be a resident of New Jersey
- Citizenship or immigration status: U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain qualified immigrants are eligible. Children under 19 are covered regardless of immigration status.
- Income: Your household income must fall within the limits for your category (see tables above)
- Other insurance: You generally cannot have access to affordable employer-sponsored coverage (for adult Medicaid). Children may qualify even if a parent has other coverage.
- Social Security Number: Required for most applicants, though not for children under 19 who qualify regardless of immigration status
There is no asset or resource test for most NJ FamilyCare categories. The ABD program is the main exception, with a $4,000 resource limit for individuals.
How to Apply for NJ FamilyCare in 2026
Applying for NJ FamilyCare is straightforward. You have several options:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before starting your application, collect:
- Social Security numbers for all household members (if applicable)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, self-employment records)
- Proof of New Jersey residency (utility bill, lease, mail)
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status
- Information about any current health insurance
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Online (recommended): Visit njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us/apply.aspx to submit your application electronically. The online portal walks you through each section and lets you upload documents.
By phone: Call NJ FamilyCare at 1-800-701-0710 (TTY: 711). Phone lines are open Monday and Thursday 8 AM to 8 PM, and Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 8 AM to 5 PM.
In person: Visit your local County Board of Social Services office. Find your county office at nj.gov/humanservices.
By mail: Download a paper application from the NJ FamilyCare website and mail it to the address listed on the form.
Step 3: Complete the Application
Answer all questions about your household, income, and current insurance status. Be thorough and accurate since incomplete applications can cause delays.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Upload or mail copies of your supporting documents. Do not send originals.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Processing times vary, but presumptive eligibility may be available, meaning you could receive temporary coverage while your full application is being reviewed. You will receive a notice by mail with the decision.
Step 6: Select a Managed Care Plan
If approved, you will need to choose a managed care organization (MCO) to coordinate your care. NJ FamilyCare operates through managed care plans that provide your benefits through a network of doctors and hospitals.
What Does NJ FamilyCare Cover?
NJ FamilyCare provides comprehensive health coverage, including:
- Doctor visits (primary care and specialists)
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Emergency room care
- Prescription drugs
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Preventive care and screenings
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Dental care (comprehensive for children; limited for adults)
- Vision care
- Home health services
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Family planning services
- Durable medical equipment
For children, coverage is especially broad and includes regular checkups, immunizations, dental care, and developmental screenings through the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit.
NJ FamilyCare vs. Get Covered New Jersey
If your income is too high for Medicaid but you still need affordable coverage, New Jersey's state-based health insurance marketplace, Get Covered New Jersey, offers subsidized plans. Here is a quick comparison:
| Feature | NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid) | Get Covered NJ (Marketplace) |
|---|---|---|
| Income range | Up to 138% FPL (adults) | Above 138% FPL |
| Cost | Free or very low cost | Monthly premiums (subsidies available) |
| Enrollment | Year-round | Open enrollment Nov 1 to Jan 31; special enrollment for qualifying events |
| Application | njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us | enroll.getcovered.nj.gov |
If you are unsure which program fits your situation, use our free eligibility screener to find out.
Renewing Your NJ FamilyCare Coverage
Medicaid coverage is not permanent. You must renew your coverage periodically (typically every 12 months). New Jersey will send you a renewal notice before your coverage period ends. You can renew:
- Online through the NJ FamilyCare portal
- By phone at 1-800-701-0710
- By returning the renewal form by mail
Respond promptly to renewal notices. If you miss the deadline, your coverage could be terminated, and you would need to reapply.
Other Benefits You Might Qualify For
If you qualify for NJ FamilyCare, you may also be eligible for other assistance programs in New Jersey:
- SNAP (food assistance): Income limit of 185% FPL gross for most households. Apply at mynjhelps.gov.
- LIHEAP (energy assistance): Helps pay heating and cooling bills. Income limit of 60% of State Median Income. Apply at nj.gov/dca/dcaid.
- WIC: Nutrition assistance for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children at up to 185% FPL.
- Childcare Assistance (CCAP): Initial eligibility at 250% FPL. Learn more at childcarenj.gov.
- Free School Meals: New Jersey expanded free school meals to families earning up to 224% FPL.
Explore all available programs on our New Jersey Benefits Overview page, or check your eligibility for multiple programs at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for NJ FamilyCare?
Processing times vary by county, but many applicants receive a decision within 30 to 45 days. Presumptive eligibility may provide temporary coverage while your application is processed.
Can undocumented immigrants get NJ FamilyCare?
Children under 19 are eligible regardless of immigration status. Adults who are undocumented generally do not qualify for full Medicaid, though emergency Medicaid covers emergency medical conditions for all residents regardless of status.
Is there a resource or asset limit for NJ FamilyCare?
For most categories (adults, children, pregnant individuals), there is no asset test. The Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) category has a $4,000 resource limit for individuals.
What if my income changes after I am approved?
You are required to report changes in income, household size, or other circumstances within 10 days. If your income increases above the limit, you may be transitioned to a marketplace plan through Get Covered New Jersey rather than losing coverage immediately.
Can I apply for NJ FamilyCare if I have a job?
Yes. Having a job does not disqualify you. Eligibility is based on income, not employment status. Many working families qualify for NJ FamilyCare, especially for children's coverage through CHIP (up to 355% FPL).
Does NJ FamilyCare cover dental and vision?
Children receive comprehensive dental and vision coverage. Adult dental coverage is more limited but includes emergency dental services and some preventive care. Vision coverage for adults includes eye exams.
What happens if I am denied?
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. The denial notice will include instructions for requesting a fair hearing. You can also contact NJ FamilyCare at 1-800-701-0710 for help understanding the decision.
Take the Next Step
Figuring out whether you qualify for Medicaid in New Jersey does not have to be complicated. The income limits are relatively generous compared to many other states, and the application process offers multiple convenient options.
Use our free eligibility screener to check your potential eligibility for NJ FamilyCare and other benefit programs in just a few minutes. You can also explore our full New Jersey Benefits Overview for details on all available assistance programs in the state.
For direct assistance, contact NJ FamilyCare at 1-800-701-0710 or visit njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us to start your application today.
