If you live in Maine and need affordable health coverage, MaineCare (Maine's Medicaid program) provides free or low-cost health insurance to eligible residents. Maine expanded Medicaid in 2019, which means more adults now qualify for coverage than ever before. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about eligibility, income limits, and how to submit your application.
Not sure if you qualify? Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for MaineCare and other assistance programs in just a few minutes.
What Is MaineCare?
MaineCare is Maine's version of the federal Medicaid program. It is administered by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), specifically through the Office for Family Independence (OFI). MaineCare covers a wide range of medical services including:
- Doctor visits and preventive care
- Emergency room visits
- Prescription medications
- Substance use disorder treatment
- Mental health services
- Hospital stays
- Lab work and diagnostic tests
- Dental care (for children and some adults)
- Vision care
Because Maine has expanded Medicaid, adults aged 21 to 64 with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) can qualify for coverage, even if they do not have children.
MaineCare Income Limits for 2026
Your eligibility for MaineCare depends on your household size, your monthly gross income (before taxes), and which category you fall into. Below are the current monthly income limits as published by the Maine DHHS:
Monthly Gross Income Limits by Category
| Household Size | Children (0-18) | Young Adults (19-20) | Adults (21-64) | Pregnant Individuals* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4,057 | $4,057 | $1,836 | $2,847 |
| 2 | $5,501 | $5,501 | $2,490 | $3,830 |
| 3 | $6,944 | $6,944 | $3,142 | $4,873 |
| 4 | $8,388 | $8,388 | $3,796 | $5,886 |
| Each additional member | +$1,444 | +$1,444 | +$654 | +$1,013 |
*For pregnant individuals, add 1 to your household size for each baby expected.
These income limits are based on the 2026 Federal Poverty Level guidelines. Children and young adults qualify at significantly higher income thresholds than other adults. Even if your income is slightly above these limits, you may still qualify under certain MaineCare categories, so it is worth applying.
If your income is too high for MaineCare, you may be eligible for subsidized health insurance through CoverME.gov, Maine's health insurance marketplace.
Who Is Eligible for MaineCare?
To qualify for MaineCare, you must:
- Be a resident of Maine
- Be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen
- Meet the income requirements for your household size and category
- Provide a Social Security number (or apply for one)
Certain groups have additional eligibility pathways:
- People with disabilities may qualify regardless of age through disability-related MaineCare categories
- Former foster youth up to age 26 who were in foster care at age 18 can receive MaineCare coverage
- Seniors aged 65 and older may qualify for MaineCare or dual Medicare/MaineCare coverage
- Individuals needing long-term care have separate eligibility rules that account for medical needs
How to Apply for MaineCare: Step by Step
You can apply for MaineCare in three ways: online, by phone, or in person. Here is how each method works.
Option 1: Apply Online (Recommended)
The fastest way to apply is through Maine's online benefits portal:
- Go to MyMaineConnection.gov
- Create an account with your name, email address, and a password
- Start a new application for health care coverage
- Enter your household information including everyone in your household, their ages, income, and citizenship status
- Provide income details such as pay stubs, tax returns, or self-employment records
- Review and submit your application
- Save your confirmation number for your records
The online system is available 24/7, and you can save your application and return to finish it later.
Option 2: Apply by Phone
Call the DHHS Office for Family Independence at 1-855-797-4357 (TTY: Maine Relay 711). A representative can help you complete your application over the phone during business hours.
Option 3: Apply in Person
Visit your local DHHS district office to apply with the help of staff. You can find your nearest office by calling the number above or visiting the Maine DHHS website.
You can also download a paper application from the DHHS website, fill it out, and mail it to:
Office for Family Independence 114 Corn Shop Lane Farmington, ME 04938
Documents You Will Need
Having these documents ready before you apply will speed up the process:
- Proof of identity such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport
- Social Security numbers for all household members applying
- Proof of income including recent pay stubs (at least 4 weeks), tax returns, or a letter from your employer
- Proof of Maine residency such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your Maine address
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status such as a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or immigration documents
- Proof of pregnancy (if applicable) from a doctor or clinic
- Information about current health insurance if you have any
You do not need to have every document at the time you apply. Maine DHHS will contact you if additional documentation is needed after you submit your application.
What Happens After You Apply
Once you submit your MaineCare application:
- Processing time: Applications are typically processed within 45 days (or 90 days for disability-related applications)
- You may be contacted by DHHS if they need additional documents or information
- You will receive a written notice in the mail telling you whether you have been approved or denied
- If approved, your coverage may be retroactive up to 3 months before the date you applied, as long as you were eligible during that time
- You will receive a MaineCare card that you can use at participating providers across the state
If you are denied, the notice will explain the reason and how to appeal the decision. You have 60 days from the date of the notice to request a fair hearing.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply as soon as possible. Do not wait until you have every document gathered. You can submit the application and provide additional documents later.
- Report all household income accurately. Underreporting income can cause issues with your eligibility later.
- Check your mail regularly. DHHS may send you requests for information with deadlines.
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
- Use the online portal to check the status of your application at MyMaineConnection.gov.
MaineCare Premiums
Most MaineCare members do not pay premiums. However, some categories of MaineCare coverage do require monthly premium payments. If your coverage category includes premiums, Maine offers an online payment portal for convenient electronic payments. There is a $2 fee for each online payment, but you can also pay by mail at no additional cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for MaineCare?
Most applications are processed within 45 days. If you are applying based on a disability, the process may take up to 90 days. You will receive a written notice once a decision is made.
Can I apply for MaineCare if I am already on Medicare?
Yes. Some individuals qualify for both Medicare and MaineCare (called "dual eligibility"). MaineCare can help cover costs that Medicare does not, such as premiums, deductibles, and copays.
Is MaineCare the same as Medicaid?
Yes. MaineCare is simply the name Maine uses for its Medicaid program. It follows federal Medicaid guidelines but also includes some state-specific rules and benefits.
What if I am denied MaineCare coverage?
If you are denied, your denial notice will explain the reason. You have the right to appeal by requesting a fair hearing within 60 days. You may also want to check if you qualify for subsidized coverage through CoverME.gov.
Can undocumented immigrants get MaineCare?
Generally, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for full MaineCare coverage. However, emergency MaineCare may cover emergency medical conditions regardless of immigration status. Pregnant individuals may also have additional options.
Do I need to renew my MaineCare coverage?
Yes. MaineCare coverage must be renewed annually. DHHS will send you a renewal packet before your coverage is set to expire. Make sure to respond promptly to avoid a gap in coverage.
Can I apply for MaineCare and other benefits at the same time?
Yes. When you apply through MyMaineConnection.gov, you can also apply for other programs like SNAP (food assistance) and TANF (cash assistance) on the same application.
Other Benefits You May Qualify For
If you are eligible for MaineCare, there is a good chance you also qualify for other assistance programs. Check your eligibility for:
- SNAP (food assistance) to help cover grocery costs
- LIHEAP (heating assistance) to help pay energy bills during Maine's cold winters
- WIC for pregnant women and families with young children
- Child care subsidies for working families
Use our free benefits screener to check all the programs you may qualify for in one place.
For a complete overview of all available assistance programs in your state, visit our Maine Benefits Overview page.
Get Started Today
Applying for MaineCare is free, and there is no penalty for applying even if you are unsure whether you qualify. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can access the health care coverage you need. Start your application today at MyMaineConnection.gov or call 1-855-797-4357 for assistance.
Want to see all the benefits you might be eligible for? Try our free screener now and get personalized results in minutes.
