Applying for Medicaid in Maryland is straightforward, and the state offers multiple ways to get covered. Maryland expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act in 2014, which means more residents qualify for free or low-cost health coverage than in many other states. Whether you are an adult without children, a parent, pregnant, or caring for kids, this guide walks you through the eligibility requirements, income limits, and the full application process. Not sure if you qualify? Check your eligibility in minutes with our free screener.
For a broader look at all available programs, visit the Maryland Benefits Overview.
Who Qualifies for Medicaid in Maryland?
Maryland Medicaid, officially called Maryland Medical Assistance, covers several groups of residents:
- Adults ages 19 to 64 with income at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
- Children under 19 with family income at or below 322% FPL
- Pregnant women with household income at or below 322% FPL
- Seniors age 65 and older who meet income and asset requirements
- Individuals with disabilities who meet medical and financial criteria
- Former foster youth under age 26
To qualify, you must also be a Maryland resident and either a U.S. citizen or a qualified immigrant.
Maryland Medicaid Income Limits
Income limits are based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) for most applicants. The table below shows approximate monthly income limits for 2025. These figures are updated each year when new Federal Poverty Level guidelines are released in January.
| Household Size | Adults (138% FPL) | Children (322% FPL) | Pregnant Women (322% FPL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,801/month | $4,202/month | N/A |
| 2 | $2,433/month | $5,677/month | $4,654/month |
| 3 | $3,065/month | $7,152/month | $5,863/month |
| 4 | $3,698/month | $8,630/month | $7,075/month |
| 5 | $4,330/month | $10,104/month | $8,284/month |
Important notes about income:
- MAGI includes wages, salary, self-employment income, Social Security benefits, and other taxable income
- Medicaid does not count assets like savings, vehicles, or your home for most applicants under MAGI rules
- If your income is slightly above these limits, you may still qualify for subsidized health insurance through the Maryland Health Connection marketplace
Special Medicaid Programs
Maryland offers several specialized Medicaid programs with different eligibility rules:
- Employed Individuals with Disabilities (EID): Working Marylanders with a disability may qualify regardless of income, with an asset limit of $10,000
- Medicare Savings Programs: Help eligible seniors and people with disabilities pay for Medicare premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance
- Aged, Blind, or Disabled Medicaid: For those who qualify based on disability or age 65 and older, with a monthly income limit of approximately $350 for an individual
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Medicaid in Maryland
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before starting your application, collect the following:
- Proof of identity: Driver's license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate
- Social Security numbers for everyone applying
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, tax returns, W-2 forms, or a letter from your employer
- Proof of Maryland residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, or mail with your address
- Immigration documents (if applicable): Green card, work permit, or other immigration paperwork
- Proof of pregnancy (if applicable): A note or form from your doctor
Having these documents ready will speed up the process. You can still submit your application without all documents and provide them later, but having everything upfront helps avoid delays.
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Maryland offers three ways to apply:
Option A: Apply Online (Recommended)
The fastest and most convenient way is through the Maryland Health Connection website:
- Go to marylandhealthconnection.gov
- Click "Apply Now" or "Get Started"
- Create an account with your email address and a password
- Complete the application by answering questions about your household, income, and current coverage
- Upload or submit your supporting documents
- Review and submit your application
The online application typically takes 20 to 30 minutes to complete.
Option B: Apply by Phone
Call the Maryland Health Connection at 1-855-642-8572. Customer service representatives are available to help you apply over the phone. Translation services are available for non-English speakers.
Hours of operation:
- Monday through Friday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Option C: Apply In Person
Visit your Local Department of Social Services (LDSS). You can find your nearest office by visiting dhs.maryland.gov or calling 211. A caseworker will help you complete and submit your application.
Step 3: Complete the Application
Whether you apply online, by phone, or in person, you will need to provide:
- Personal details for everyone in your household (name, date of birth, Social Security number)
- Your household size and relationships between household members
- Income information for all household members
- Current health insurance status
- Employment details
- Any disability or medical conditions relevant to eligibility
Answer all questions as accurately as possible. The system uses your information to determine whether you qualify for Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), or subsidized marketplace coverage.
Step 4: Submit and Wait for a Decision
After submitting your application:
- Processing time: Maryland aims to process Medicaid applications within 45 days (90 days for disability-based applications)
- You may be contacted for additional information or documentation
- Check your status online through your Maryland Health Connection account or by calling 1-855-642-8572
Step 5: Receive Your Decision
You will receive a written notice of your eligibility determination. If approved:
- Your coverage can start as early as the date you applied, or even up to three months before your application date (retroactive coverage)
- You will receive information about choosing a managed care organization (MCO) to coordinate your care
- Your Medicaid card or information will be mailed to you
What Does Maryland Medicaid Cover?
Maryland Medicaid provides comprehensive health coverage, including:
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Emergency room visits
- Prescription medications
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Preventive care and screenings
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Maternity and newborn care
- Dental care (limited for adults, comprehensive for children)
- Vision care
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Home health services
Most Medicaid recipients in Maryland pay no premiums and have very low or no copays for services.
What If You Are Denied?
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Your denial notice will explain the reason and include instructions for filing an appeal. Key things to know:
- You typically have 90 days from the date of the notice to request a hearing
- You can submit additional documentation that supports your eligibility
- Free legal help may be available through organizations like Maryland Legal Aid (call 410-539-5340 or visit mdlab.org)
Common reasons for denial include income above the limit, missing documentation, or failure to respond to requests for information. If your income is just above the Medicaid cutoff, you may qualify for affordable marketplace coverage with premium subsidies through Maryland Health Connection.
Renewing Your Maryland Medicaid Coverage
Medicaid coverage is not permanent. You must renew your coverage each year (the renewal period is typically 12 months). Maryland will send you a renewal form before your coverage expires.
- Respond promptly to renewal requests to avoid a gap in coverage
- Update your information if your income, household size, or address changes during the year
- You can manage your renewal online through Maryland Health Connection
Other Benefits You May Qualify For
If you qualify for Medicaid in Maryland, you may also be eligible for other assistance programs:
- SNAP (Food Supplement Program): Help buying groceries, with income limits up to 200% FPL in Maryland
- LIHEAP/OHEP: Help paying heating and electric bills
- WIC: Nutrition assistance for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children
- Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA): Monthly cash benefits for families with children
You can check your eligibility for multiple programs at once using our free benefits screener.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid in Maryland?
Most applications are processed within 45 days. If your eligibility is based on a disability, it may take up to 90 days. Applying online through Maryland Health Connection is generally the fastest method.
Can I apply for Medicaid at any time?
Yes. Unlike marketplace health insurance, Medicaid has no open enrollment period. You can apply any day of the year. If you qualify, your coverage can begin immediately.
What if my income changes after I am approved?
You are required to report changes in income, household size, or address to Maryland Health Connection. If your income goes above the Medicaid limit, you may be transitioned to a subsidized marketplace plan so you do not lose coverage.
Does Maryland Medicaid cover dental care?
Maryland Medicaid covers comprehensive dental services for children. For adults, coverage includes some dental services, though the scope is more limited. The Healthy Smiles Dental Program provides additional dental benefits for children enrolled in Medicaid.
Can undocumented immigrants get Medicaid in Maryland?
Undocumented immigrants are generally not eligible for full Medicaid coverage. However, emergency Medicaid covers emergency medical conditions regardless of immigration status. Pregnant women in Maryland may qualify for coverage during pregnancy regardless of immigration status. Children may also have options through state-funded programs.
What is the difference between Medicaid and Maryland Health Connection?
Maryland Health Connection is the state's health insurance marketplace where you can apply for both Medicaid and private marketplace plans. When you submit an application, the system automatically determines whether you qualify for Medicaid (free coverage) or for subsidized marketplace insurance based on your income.
Can I have both Medicaid and Medicare?
Yes. People who qualify for both programs are called "dual eligible." Medicaid can help cover costs that Medicare does not, such as Medicare premiums, copays, and services like long-term care and dental. Contact Maryland Health Connection or your Local Department of Social Services for more information.
Get Started Today
Applying for Medicaid in Maryland does not cost anything, and finding out if you qualify takes just a few minutes. Start by checking your eligibility with our free screener, then apply through Maryland Health Connection online, by phone at 1-855-642-8572, or in person at your local Department of Social Services.
