If you live in Indiana and need affordable health coverage, Medicaid may be the answer. Indiana provides Medicaid coverage through several programs, including the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) for adults and Hoosier Healthwise for children. Whether you are applying for yourself, your child, or another family member, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about how to apply for Medicaid in Indiana in 2026.
Not sure if you qualify? Use our free eligibility screener to check your eligibility for Medicaid and other benefit programs in just a few minutes. You can also visit our Indiana Benefits Overview page for a broader look at all available programs in the state.
Who Is Eligible for Indiana Medicaid?
Indiana expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act through its Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) 2.0, which launched in 2015. This means most low-income adults, children, pregnant individuals, and seniors or people with disabilities can qualify for coverage. Eligibility is based primarily on household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), along with factors like age, disability status, and family size.
Here are the main eligibility groups:
- Adults (ages 19 to 64): Covered through the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) if income is at or below 138% of the FPL.
- Children (under 19): Covered through Hoosier Healthwise if income is at or below 158% of the FPL. Children up to age 1 qualify at up to 208% FPL.
- Pregnant individuals: Eligible with income up to 208% of the FPL.
- Aged, blind, and disabled individuals: Must meet income and asset limits and have a qualifying disability or be age 65 or older.
To be eligible, you must also be a resident of Indiana and a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen.
Indiana Medicaid Income Limits for 2026
The income limits listed below reflect gross monthly income (before taxes) and are effective as of March 1, 2026. These limits are updated annually.
Adults (Healthy Indiana Plan / HIP)
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,835.50 |
| 2 | $2,489.20 |
| 3 | $3,141.85 |
| 4 | $3,795.50 |
| 5 | $4,449.20 |
Children (Hoosier Healthwise)
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $3,391.50 |
| 2 | $4,599.20 |
| 3 | $5,805.85 |
| 4 | $7,012.50 |
| 5 | $8,220.20 |
Pregnant Individuals
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 2 | $3,841.20 |
| 3 | $4,849.85 |
| 4 | $5,857.50 |
| 5 | $6,866.20 |
Note: For pregnant individuals, family size includes the unborn child or children.
Aged, Blind, and Disabled
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,330.00 |
| 2 | $1,762.50 |
Aged, blind, and disabled applicants also face an asset limit of $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a married couple. Assets include bank accounts and investments, but typically exclude a primary home and one vehicle.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Indiana: Step by Step
Indiana processes Medicaid applications through the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), Division of Family Resources (DFR). There are four ways to apply:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before starting your application, collect the following:
- Social Security numbers for everyone applying
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer)
- Proof of Indiana residency (utility bill, lease, or ID with your address)
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status (birth certificate, passport, or immigration documents)
- Information about any current health insurance coverage
- Bank account and asset information (for aged, blind, and disabled applicants)
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Apply Online (Recommended) Visit the FSSA Benefits Portal at fssabenefits.in.gov. Create an account, complete the Indiana Application for Health Coverage, and submit it electronically. This is the fastest option and allows you to track your application status.
Apply by Phone Call 1-800-403-0864 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET) to complete your application over the phone with a representative.
Apply In Person Visit your local Division of Family Resources (DFR) office. You can find the nearest office by visiting in.gov/fssa/dfr or calling the number above.
Apply by Mail Download and print the Indiana Application for Health Coverage from the FSSA website, fill it out, and mail it to your local DFR office.
Apply Through HealthCare.gov You can also submit a Medicaid application through HealthCare.gov. If you appear to qualify for Medicaid based on your information, your application will be forwarded to Indiana for processing.
Step 3: Complete an Interview (If Required)
For some applicants, the DFR may schedule a phone or in-person interview to verify the information on your application. Be sure to answer calls from unknown numbers during this time and respond to any requests for additional documentation promptly.
Step 4: Receive Your Determination
Indiana aims to process most Medicaid applications within 45 days (90 days for disability-related applications). You will receive a notice by mail telling you whether you have been approved or denied. If approved, you will also receive information about choosing a managed care plan.
Step 5: Choose a Managed Care Plan
If you are approved, you will need to select a managed care plan. Indiana Medicaid is delivered through managed care organizations. The plans available depend on your eligibility category:
- Hoosier Healthwise (children and some families): Anthem, CareSource, Managed Health Services (MHS), MDwise
- Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP): Anthem, CareSource, Managed Health Services (MHS), MDwise
- Hoosier Care Connect (aged, blind, disabled): Anthem, CareSource, Managed Health Services (MHS), MDwise
If you do not choose a plan within the allotted time, one will be assigned to you.
Understanding the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP)
The Healthy Indiana Plan is Indiana's unique approach to Medicaid expansion for adults ages 19 to 64. There are two benefit levels:
HIP Plus provides comprehensive benefits including vision and dental coverage. To receive HIP Plus, you are required to make monthly contributions to a Personal Wellness and Responsibility (POWER) account. The contribution is 2% of your household income, with a minimum of $1 per month.
HIP Basic is available if you do not make your POWER account contributions. HIP Basic offers more limited benefits and may include copays for services.
If your income is below 100% of the FPL, you will not lose coverage for failing to make contributions, but you may be moved to HIP Basic. If your income is between 100% and 138% of the FPL, failing to make contributions could result in a loss of coverage for six months.
What Documents Do You Need?
Here is a quick checklist of documents to prepare:
- Identity: Driver's license, state ID, or passport
- Income: Recent pay stubs (last 30 days), tax return, Social Security benefit letter, or unemployment documentation
- Residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, or mail with your Indiana address
- Citizenship: Birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Certificate of Naturalization
- Immigration status (if applicable): Green card, work permit, or other USCIS documentation
- Disability documentation (if applicable): Social Security disability determination letter or medical records
Special Situations
Pregnant Women
Pregnant women in Indiana can receive immediate temporary coverage through Presumptive Eligibility while their full Medicaid application is being processed. Contact your local health care provider or DFR office to apply for Presumptive Eligibility. Once approved for full Medicaid, coverage continues for 12 months after the birth of the baby.
Children and CHIP
Children who do not qualify for Medicaid due to slightly higher family income may still be eligible for coverage through the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which in Indiana is part of Hoosier Healthwise. CHIP covers children up to age 19 in families with incomes up to 250% of the FPL. Some families may need to pay a small monthly premium.
Aged, Blind, and Disabled
If you are 65 or older, blind, or have a disability that meets the Social Security Administration's definition, you may qualify for Traditional Medicaid, Hoosier Care Connect, or Indiana PathWays for Aging. These programs have stricter income and asset limits. The application process may take up to 90 days due to disability determination requirements.
What Happens If You Are Denied?
If your Medicaid application is denied, the notice you receive will explain the reason. You have the right to request a fair hearing (appeal) within 30 days of receiving the denial notice. Common reasons for denial include:
- Income exceeding the limit for your category
- Missing or incomplete documentation
- Failure to complete an interview
If you were denied because your income is too high for Medicaid, you may still qualify for subsidized health insurance through the ACA Marketplace at HealthCare.gov. Use our free screener to check what programs you may be eligible for.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply as soon as possible. Medicaid coverage in Indiana can begin as early as the date your application is received, and in some cases can be backdated up to three months.
- Respond to requests quickly. If the DFR asks for additional documents, provide them within the deadline to avoid delays or denial.
- Keep copies of everything. Save copies of your application and all documents you submit.
- Report changes promptly. Once enrolled, report any changes in income, household size, or address within 10 days.
- Renew on time. Indiana Medicaid must be renewed annually. You will receive a renewal packet by mail before your coverage period ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid in Indiana?
Most applications are processed within 45 days. Applications involving a disability determination may take up to 90 days. Applying online through the FSSA Benefits Portal is typically the fastest method.
Can I apply for Indiana Medicaid online?
Yes. You can apply online through the FSSA Benefits Portal at fssabenefits.in.gov or through HealthCare.gov.
What is the income limit for Medicaid in Indiana for a single person?
For adults under 65 applying through the Healthy Indiana Plan, the income limit is $1,835.50 per month (138% FPL) as of March 2026. For aged, blind, and disabled individuals, the limit is $1,330.00 per month.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get Medicaid in Indiana?
You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen (such as a lawful permanent resident). Some qualified non-citizens may face a five-year waiting period before becoming eligible. Emergency Medicaid is available regardless of immigration status for qualifying medical emergencies.
What is the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP)?
HIP is Indiana's Medicaid expansion program for adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to 138% of the FPL. It includes a personal health savings-style account called the POWER account, to which members contribute 2% of their income monthly.
Can I get Medicaid if I am pregnant in Indiana?
Yes. Pregnant individuals in Indiana can qualify for Medicaid with income up to 208% of the FPL. You may also be eligible for Presumptive Eligibility, which provides temporary immediate coverage while your application is being processed.
Where can I get help with my Indiana Medicaid application?
You can call 1-800-403-0864 for assistance, visit a local DFR office, or contact a community organization such as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) for free application help. You can also use our free eligibility screener to see what programs you may qualify for before applying.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Eligibility is determined by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. Income limits and program details are subject to change. Use our free screener to check your potential eligibility.
