Missouri's Medicaid program is called MO HealthNet, and it provides free or low-cost healthcare coverage to eligible residents. Whether you are a parent, a low-income adult, pregnant, elderly, or have a disability, Missouri offers several MO HealthNet categories that may cover you. This guide walks you through every step of the application process, the income limits you need to meet, and what documents to have ready.
Not sure if you qualify? Check your eligibility in minutes with our free screener.
Who Qualifies for MO HealthNet (Missouri Medicaid)?
Missouri expanded Medicaid in 2021, which means most adults aged 19 to 64 with household incomes at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) can now qualify. Beyond the expansion group, Missouri has separate MO HealthNet categories for families, children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities.
Here is a summary of the main eligibility groups:
- Expansion Adults (ages 19 to 64): Income at or below 133% FPL (effectively 138% with the 5% income disregard)
- MO HealthNet for Families: Very low income thresholds for parents and caretaker relatives
- MO HealthNet for Kids (under age 1): Income up to 196% FPL
- MO HealthNet for Kids (ages 1 to 18): Income up to 148% FPL
- CHIP (State Children's Health Insurance Program): Income up to 300% FPL
- Pregnant Women: Income up to 196% FPL
- Show Me Healthy Babies (unborn child coverage): Income up to 300% FPL
- Aged and Disabled: Income at or below 85% FPL
- Blind: Income at or below 100% FPL
Missouri Medicaid Income Limits (2025 to 2026)
The table below shows the maximum annual income allowed for each MO HealthNet category, based on household size. These figures are from the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) income chart effective October 1, 2025.
MO HealthNet for Expansion Adults (133% FPL)
| Household Size | Max Annual Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $20,814 |
| 2 | $28,129 |
| 3 | $35,444 |
| 4 | $42,759 |
| 5 | $50,074 |
| 6 | $57,389 |
MO HealthNet for Children and Pregnant Women
| Category | 1 Person | 2 People | 3 People | 4 People |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kids under 1 (196% FPL) | $30,674 | $41,454 | $52,234 | $63,014 |
| Kids ages 1 to 18 (148% FPL) | $23,162 | $31,302 | $39,442 | $47,582 |
| CHIP (300% FPL) | $23,475 | $31,725 | $39,975 | $48,225 |
| Pregnant Women (196% FPL) | $30,674 | $41,454 | $52,234 | $63,014 |
MO HealthNet for Aged, Blind, and Disabled
| Category | 1 Person | 2 People | 3 People | 4 People |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aged and Disabled (85% FPL) | $13,303 | $17,978 | $22,653 | $27,328 |
| Blind (100% FPL) | $15,650 | $21,150 | $26,650 | $32,150 |
Income limits update periodically. Always verify with the Missouri DSS income limits page for the latest figures.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Missouri: Step by Step
You can apply for MO HealthNet using one of four methods. All applications go to the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) for processing.
Step 1: Choose Your Application Method
Online (Recommended) Apply through the Missouri DSS self-service portal at mydss.mo.gov. You can create an account, submit your application, upload documents, and check your case status all in one place. This is the fastest option.
By Phone Call the MO HealthNet helpline at 1-855-373-4636. A representative can help you complete your application over the phone. Hours are Monday through Friday.
In Person Visit your local Family Support Division (FSD) office. You can find your nearest office on the Missouri DSS website. Bring your documents with you to speed up the process.
By Mail Download and print the application from the DSS website, fill it out, and mail it to your local FSD office.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Before you start, collect the following documents for every person in your household who is applying:
- Proof of identity: Driver's license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate
- Proof of Missouri residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, or mail with your Missouri address
- Proof of income: Pay stubs (last 30 days), tax returns, Social Security award letters, or self-employment records
- Social Security numbers for all household members applying
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status: Birth certificate, U.S. passport, or immigration documents
- Proof of any resources or assets (for aged, blind, and disabled categories): Bank statements, property records
Step 3: Complete the Application
When applying online at mydss.mo.gov:
- Create an account or log in to an existing one
- Select "Apply for Benefits"
- Choose healthcare coverage (MO HealthNet)
- Enter information about everyone in your household, including income, expenses, and current insurance status
- Review your answers carefully before submitting
- Upload supporting documents directly through the portal
You can also apply for other programs like SNAP (food assistance) and TANF (cash assistance) on the same application.
Step 4: Complete Your Interview (If Required)
For most MO HealthNet applications, no interview is needed. However, if you are applying for certain categories like MO HealthNet for the Aged and Disabled, a caseworker may contact you for additional information or to schedule an interview.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Missouri DSS is required to process your application within 45 days (or 90 days for disability-related applications). You will receive a notice by mail letting you know if you are approved or denied.
If you are approved, your coverage may be retroactive up to three months before your application date, as long as you would have been eligible during that time.
Step 6: Receive Your MO HealthNet Card
Once approved, you will receive a MO HealthNet card in the mail. This card is what you present to healthcare providers. You can also access your benefits information through the mydss.mo.gov portal.
What MO HealthNet Covers
MO HealthNet provides comprehensive healthcare coverage, including:
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Prescription medications
- Mental health and substance use treatment
- Preventive care and screenings
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Dental care (limited for adults, more comprehensive for children)
- Vision care
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Nursing home care and personal care services (for eligible individuals)
Most MO HealthNet recipients pay no premiums and little to no copays. Some categories may have small copays for certain services.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply even if you are unsure: Missouri DSS will review your application and determine which category you fit into. You do not need to pick a specific program.
- Report all income accurately: Include wages, self-employment income, Social Security, child support, and any other income sources.
- Respond to requests quickly: If DSS asks for additional documents, submit them as soon as possible to avoid delays.
- Keep copies of everything: Save copies of your application and all documents you submit.
- Check your mail: Important notices about your application status will come by mail.
- Renew on time: MO HealthNet coverage must be renewed annually. You will receive a renewal notice before your coverage is set to end.
What to Do If Your Application Is Denied
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Here is what to do:
- Read the denial notice carefully. It will explain the reason for the denial and your appeal rights.
- Request a hearing within 90 days of the denial date. You can request a hearing by calling DSS or submitting a written request.
- Gather supporting documents that address the reason for the denial.
- Attend your hearing. You can bring someone to help you, including a legal aid representative.
If you need free legal help with a Medicaid denial, contact Legal Services of Missouri or call Missouri's legal aid hotline.
Other Programs You May Qualify For
If you are applying for MO HealthNet, you may also be eligible for other assistance programs in Missouri:
- SNAP (Food Stamps): Helps pay for groceries. Income limits are 130% FPL gross income.
- LIHEAP: Helps pay heating and cooling bills.
- WIC: Nutrition assistance for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.
- Child Care Subsidy: Helps eligible families pay for child care.
- TANF (Temporary Assistance): Cash assistance for very low-income families with children.
Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for all available programs in just a few minutes. You can also visit our Missouri Benefits Overview page for a complete look at programs in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid in Missouri?
Missouri DSS must process your application within 45 days for most categories, or 90 days for disability-related applications. Many online applications are processed faster, sometimes within a few weeks.
Can I apply for Missouri Medicaid if I am undocumented?
Most MO HealthNet programs require U.S. citizenship or qualifying immigration status. However, the Show Me Healthy Babies program provides prenatal care coverage regardless of immigration status for pregnant individuals with income up to 300% FPL.
Is there an asset or resource limit for Missouri Medicaid?
For expansion adults, families, children, and pregnant women, there is no asset test. For the Aged, Blind, and Disabled categories, resource limits may apply.
Can I have other insurance and still qualify for MO HealthNet?
Yes, in some cases. MO HealthNet can serve as secondary insurance. If you have Medicare, MO HealthNet can help cover costs that Medicare does not, such as copays, deductibles, and services like dental or long-term care.
What is the difference between MO HealthNet and the Health Insurance Marketplace?
MO HealthNet (Medicaid) is free or very low-cost health coverage for people with limited income. The Health Insurance Marketplace (ACA) offers subsidized private insurance plans for people whose income is too high for Medicaid. If you apply through the Marketplace and your income qualifies you for Medicaid, your application will be transferred to DSS automatically.
How do I renew my MO HealthNet coverage?
You must renew your coverage each year. DSS will send you a renewal form before your coverage expires. You can renew online at mydss.mo.gov, by phone, by mail, or in person. Make sure to respond promptly to keep your coverage active.
Can I get Medicaid coverage backdated in Missouri?
Yes. If you were eligible in the three months before your application date, Missouri can provide retroactive coverage for that period. This can help pay for medical bills you incurred before applying.
Applying for Medicaid in Missouri does not have to be complicated. Start by checking your eligibility with our free screener, then apply online at mydss.mo.gov for the fastest results. If you need help at any point, call the MO HealthNet helpline at 1-855-373-4636.
