Applying for Medicaid in New Jersey is simpler than most people expect. The state runs its Medicaid program under the name NJ FamilyCare, and it covers a wide range of residents, including adults, children, pregnant women, and seniors. If you or someone in your household needs affordable health coverage, this guide walks you through every step of the process, from checking eligibility to submitting your application and getting approved.
Not sure if you qualify? Try our free benefits screener to check your eligibility in just a few minutes. You can also visit the New Jersey Benefits Overview page for a full look at all available programs in the state.
What Is NJ FamilyCare?
NJ FamilyCare is the name for New Jersey's Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). It provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible residents. The program is run by the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS).
NJ FamilyCare covers two main groups:
- NJ FamilyCare (general): Children under 19, adults ages 19 to 64, and pregnant women
- NJ FamilyCare Aged, Blind, Disabled (ABD): People age 65 and older, and people determined blind or disabled by the Social Security Administration or the State of New Jersey
New Jersey has expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, which means adults between 19 and 64 can qualify even if they do not have children. This makes NJ FamilyCare accessible to a much broader group than Medicaid programs in states that have not expanded.
Who Is Eligible for NJ FamilyCare?
To qualify for NJ FamilyCare, you must meet certain requirements:
- Residency: You must live in New Jersey.
- Citizenship or immigration status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified immigrant. However, all children under 19 are eligible regardless of immigration status (a policy that took effect in January 2023).
- Income: Your household income must fall below certain limits based on your household size and the category you fall into.
Immigrant adults generally must have had Legal Permanent Resident status for at least five years. However, some lawfully present immigrants, such as refugees and asylees, can qualify regardless of when they entered the country. Lawfully present immigrants ages 19 and 20 with very low incomes (approximately $509 per month for a single person as of 2025 guidelines) may also qualify.
2026 Income Limits for NJ FamilyCare
NJ FamilyCare uses the Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) methodology to determine eligibility for most applicants. Income limits are based on a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The 2025 FPL for a single individual in the contiguous United States is $15,650 per year, though updated 2026 figures may apply. The percentages below reflect the general thresholds used by the program.
Adults Ages 19 to 64
Adults qualify at or below 138% of the FPL (which includes the standard 5% income disregard).
| Household Size | Approximate Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,800 |
| 2 | $2,437 |
| 3 | $3,070 |
| 4 | $3,698 |
| 5 | $4,334 |
| 6 | $4,968 |
Income figures are based on 2025 federal poverty guidelines and may be updated for 2026. Check with NJ FamilyCare for the most current numbers.
Children (Under Age 19)
Children have higher income thresholds than adults:
- Medicaid: Up to approximately 147% FPL
- CHIP (NJ FamilyCare): Up to approximately 355% FPL
For a family of four, a household earning up to roughly $8,900 per month could potentially qualify children for CHIP coverage.
Pregnant Women
Pregnant women qualify with household income at or below 200% FPL. For a single person, that is approximately $2,607 per month based on 2025 guidelines.
Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD)
The ABD program uses different rules. Generally, individuals must have income at or below 100% FPL and resources (assets) no greater than $4,000 for an individual. The ABD program does not use the MAGI methodology and instead uses traditional income counting methods.
How to Apply for Medicaid in New Jersey: Step by Step
There are several ways to apply for NJ FamilyCare. Choose the method that works best for your situation.
Option 1: Apply Online (Recommended)
Applying online is the fastest and easiest way to get started.
- Go to the NJ FamilyCare application portal at njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us.
- Create an account. This lets you save your progress, check application status, upload documents, and renew coverage in future years.
- Gather your documents before you begin (see the checklist below).
- Fill out the application. You will need to provide information about everyone in your household, including income, employment, and other health coverage.
- Submit the application. You will receive a confirmation once it is submitted.
- Upload any requested documents through your online account if NJ FamilyCare asks for verification.
Option 2: Apply by Phone
Call the NJ FamilyCare hotline at 1-800-701-0710 (TTY: 711). Representatives can walk you through the application process over the phone.
Phone hours:
- Monday and Thursday: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Live translators are available for most languages.
Option 3: Apply in Person
Visit your local County Board of Social Services office. You can find the nearest office by visiting nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/home/cbss.shtml. Staff at the office can help you complete and submit your application on the spot.
Option 4: Mail a Paper Application
You can download a printable application from the NJ FamilyCare website in English or Spanish. Fill it out and mail it to the address provided on the form.
Documents You Will Need
Having the right documents ready before you apply can speed up the process significantly. Here is what NJ FamilyCare typically requires:
- Proof of identity: Driver's license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate
- Social Security numbers for all household members applying (or immigration documents for non-citizens)
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs (at least 4 weeks), tax returns, W-2 forms, or a letter from an employer
- Proof of New Jersey residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, or mail with your New Jersey address
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status: Birth certificate, U.S. passport, or immigration documents
- Other health insurance information: If anyone in the household currently has coverage, have the policy details available
- Pregnancy verification: If applying as a pregnant woman, a letter or form from your healthcare provider
You do not need to have every document ready to start the application. NJ FamilyCare will let you know if additional documentation is needed after you submit.
What Happens After You Apply
Once your application is submitted, here is what to expect:
- Application review: NJ FamilyCare will review your information and may request additional documents.
- Eligibility determination: You will receive a notice by mail letting you know if you are approved or denied. Processing times vary, but the state is required to make a determination within 45 days (or 90 days for disability-related applications).
- Choose a managed care plan: If approved, you will be asked to select a managed care organization (MCO) for your coverage. If you do not choose one, one will be assigned to you.
- Receive your NJ FamilyCare ID card: Your card will arrive by mail. You can use it to access covered services.
Presumptive Eligibility
If you need medical care before your application is fully processed, you may qualify for Presumptive Eligibility (PE). Many hospitals, clinics, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), and family planning centers can help you apply for PE on the spot. This provides temporary coverage while your full NJ FamilyCare application is being reviewed.
What NJ FamilyCare Covers
NJ FamilyCare provides comprehensive health coverage. Covered services generally include:
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Prescription medications
- Mental health and substance use disorder treatment
- Preventive care and screenings
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Maternity and newborn care
- Vision and dental care (for children; limited for adults)
- Home health services
- Transportation to medical appointments
CHIP enrollees may have small co-pays ranging from $5 to $35 depending on the service. Premiums for CHIP are currently suspended.
What to Do If You Are Denied
If your application is denied, do not give up. Here are your options:
- Read the denial notice carefully. It will explain why you were denied and what steps you can take.
- Request a Fair Hearing. You have the right to appeal the decision. The notice will include instructions and deadlines for filing an appeal.
- Check if you qualify for other programs. You may be eligible for coverage through Get Covered New Jersey, the state's ACA marketplace, which offers subsidized health insurance plans. Our benefits screener can help you explore other options.
- Contact legal aid. Organizations like Legal Services of New Jersey (LSNJ) can help with appeals and provide free legal guidance. Call the LSNJ hotline at 1-888-576-5529.
Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes
- Report all household members. Even if not everyone is applying for coverage, the application asks about everyone in the household for income calculation purposes.
- Use accurate income figures. Report current monthly income, not last year's income, unless the application specifically asks for tax return data.
- Respond promptly to requests for documents. Missing deadlines for providing verification documents is one of the most common reasons applications are delayed or denied.
- Keep copies of everything. Save copies of your application and any documents you submit.
- Update your information. If your income, household size, or address changes after you are approved, report the change to NJ FamilyCare promptly to avoid issues with your coverage.
Renewing Your NJ FamilyCare Coverage
NJ FamilyCare coverage must be renewed annually. You will receive a renewal notice by mail before your coverage period ends. You can renew online through your NJ FamilyCare account, by phone, or by mailing the renewal form back. Failing to renew on time can result in a gap in coverage, so mark the renewal date on your calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for NJ FamilyCare?
Processing times vary, but the state is required to make a determination within 45 days of receiving a complete application. Disability-related applications may take up to 90 days. If you need care right away, ask about Presumptive Eligibility at a local hospital or health center.
Can I apply for NJ FamilyCare if I am undocumented?
Undocumented adults generally do not qualify for full NJ FamilyCare coverage. However, all children under 19 living in New Jersey are eligible regardless of immigration status. Undocumented adults may qualify for the Medical Emergency Payment Program, which covers emergency services including labor and delivery.
Is NJ FamilyCare the same as Medicaid?
Yes. NJ FamilyCare is simply the name New Jersey uses for its Medicaid and CHIP programs. When people refer to "Medicaid in New Jersey," they are talking about NJ FamilyCare.
Do I have to pay anything with NJ FamilyCare?
Most NJ FamilyCare enrollees pay nothing for their coverage. There are no premiums for Medicaid enrollees. CHIP enrollees (children in higher-income families) may have small co-pays of $5 to $35 depending on the service. CHIP premiums are currently suspended.
Can I apply for NJ FamilyCare if I already have insurance?
Yes, you can apply even if you currently have other health insurance. If you are found eligible, NJ FamilyCare may become your primary coverage or help cover costs that your current insurance does not.
What if my income changes after I am approved?
You are required to report changes in income, household size, address, or other circumstances to NJ FamilyCare. Changes may affect your eligibility or the program you are enrolled in. Report changes through your online account, by calling 1-800-701-0710, or at your local County Board of Social Services office.
Additional Resources
- NJ FamilyCare Application Portal: njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us
- NJHelps Screening Tool: njhelps.gov (check if you may qualify before applying)
- NJ FamilyCare Phone Line: 1-800-701-0710 (TTY: 711)
- Get Covered New Jersey (ACA Marketplace): getcovered.nj.gov
- Legal Services of New Jersey: 1-888-576-5529
- Check all your benefits: Use our free benefits screener to see every program you may qualify for
Understanding how to apply for Medicaid in New Jersey does not have to be stressful. NJ FamilyCare offers multiple ways to apply, generous income limits thanks to Medicaid expansion, and comprehensive coverage once you are enrolled. Whether you apply online, by phone, or in person, the most important step is simply getting started. If you are unsure about your eligibility, check your benefits now and find out in minutes.
