Applying for Medicaid in North Dakota does not have to be complicated. Whether you are a low-income adult, a parent, pregnant, or caring for children, North Dakota offers several Medicaid programs that could help cover your health care costs at little or no charge. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from eligibility requirements and income limits to the actual application process, so you can get the coverage you need as quickly as possible.
Not sure if you qualify? Use our free benefits screening tool to check your eligibility for Medicaid and other assistance programs in just a few minutes.
Who Qualifies for Medicaid in North Dakota?
North Dakota is a Medicaid expansion state, which means the program covers more people than in states that have not expanded. Since 2014, North Dakota has extended Medicaid coverage to adults ages 19 through 64 with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). This expansion has opened the door for thousands of North Dakotans who previously fell into a coverage gap.
Medicaid in North Dakota covers several groups of people:
- Adults ages 19 to 64 with household incomes at or below 138% FPL (Medicaid Expansion)
- Children from birth through age 5 with household incomes at or below 152% FPL
- Children ages 6 through 18 with household incomes at or below 138% FPL
- Children through CHIP with household incomes above Medicaid limits but at or below 205% FPL
- Pregnant women with household incomes at or below 175% FPL (the unborn child counts as a household member)
- Older adults age 65 and over and people with disabilities who meet income and asset requirements
- Parents and caretaker relatives of dependent children
Pregnant women who qualify receive coverage through their pregnancy and for 12 months after delivery, giving new mothers an extended period of health care access during a critical time.
North Dakota Medicaid Income Limits for 2025 to 2026
Income limits are based on the Federal Poverty Level and are updated each year. The table below shows approximate monthly income limits for the most common Medicaid eligibility groups in North Dakota. These figures are effective as of April 1, 2025, and may be adjusted when new FPL guidelines are released.
Adults (Ages 19 to 64, Medicaid Expansion, 138% FPL)
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,800 |
| 2 | $2,433 |
| 3 | $3,065 |
| 4 | $3,698 |
| 5 | $4,331 |
| 6 | $4,964 |
Each additional household member adds approximately $633 per month.
Children (CHIP, up to 205% FPL)
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 2 | $3,614 |
| 3 | $4,553 |
| 4 | $5,493 |
| 5 | $6,432 |
| 6 | $7,372 |
Each additional household member adds approximately $940 per month.
Pregnant Women (175% FPL)
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 2 | $3,085 |
| 3 | $3,887 |
| 4 | $4,689 |
| 5 | $5,491 |
The unborn child counts as a household member, so a pregnant woman with no other dependents counts as a household of 2.
Important: These income limits use Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) for most applicants. There is no asset test for children, families with children, or pregnant women. Older adults and people with disabilities may be subject to additional asset limits.
For a personalized estimate of your eligibility, try our free screening tool.
How to Apply for Medicaid in North Dakota: Step by Step
North Dakota offers multiple ways to apply for Medicaid. Choose the method that works best for you.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before you start your application, collect the following information for everyone in your household who needs coverage:
- Proof of identity (driver's license, state ID, birth certificate, or passport)
- Social Security numbers for all household members applying
- Proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, W-2 forms, or a letter from your employer)
- Proof of North Dakota residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or mail with your current address)
- Immigration status documents (if applicable)
- Proof of pregnancy (if applying as a pregnant woman)
- Information about current health insurance (if any)
Having these documents ready before you begin will speed up the process significantly.
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Option A: Apply Online (Recommended)
The fastest way to apply is through the North Dakota online benefits portal:
- Visit https://www.hhs.nd.gov/applyforhelp
- Click to access the online application portal
- Create an account or log in if you already have one
- Complete the application, entering information about your household, income, and expenses
- Upload or submit any required documents
- Review your application and submit it
The online portal at https://dhsbenefits.dhs.nd.gov allows you to apply for multiple programs at once, including Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, and other assistance.
Option B: Apply by Phone
Call the toll-free application line at 1-866-614-6005 (TTY: 711). A representative can help you complete your application over the phone and answer questions about the process.
Option C: Apply by Mail or In Person
- Download a paper application from the North Dakota HHS website or request one by phone
- Fill out the application completely
- Mail it to your local county social services office or drop it off in person
You can find paper applications at https://apps.nd.gov/itd/recmgmt/rm/stFrm/eforms/Doc/sfn01909.pdf.
Step 3: Wait for a Decision
After you submit your application, North Dakota HHS will review it and may contact you for additional information or documentation. The typical processing time is up to 45 days for most Medicaid applications, though it may be shorter. Applications for pregnant women and children are sometimes processed more quickly.
You can check your application status by logging into the online portal or by calling 1-866-614-6005.
Step 4: Receive Your Determination
Once your application is reviewed, you will receive a letter in the mail telling you whether you have been approved or denied. If approved, the letter will include details about your coverage, including your start date and how to access services.
Medicaid Expansion in North Dakota: What You Need to Know
North Dakota expanded Medicaid in 2014, extending coverage to adults ages 19 through 64 who earn up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. Before expansion, many low-income adults without children had no pathway to Medicaid coverage.
Medicaid Expansion in North Dakota is administered through Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota. If you are enrolled in the expansion program, you can contact member services at:
- Phone: (833) 777-5779
- TTY: 711 or (800) 366-6888
- Website: https://medicaid.bcbsnd.com/
Note: Starting in 2026, some people's Medicaid eligibility may change due to ongoing redetermination processes. Visit the Stay Enrolled page on the North Dakota HHS website to make sure your coverage is not interrupted.
What Does North Dakota Medicaid Cover?
North Dakota Medicaid provides comprehensive health care coverage, including:
- Doctor visits and preventive care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Prescription medications
- Mental health and substance use disorder services
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Emergency room visits
- Dental services (limited for adults, more comprehensive for children)
- Vision and hearing services
- Maternity and newborn care
- Home health services
- Nursing facility care
- Transportation to medical appointments
Children enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP receive a broader range of benefits under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) program, which covers all medically necessary services.
What If You Are Denied Medicaid?
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Your denial letter will include instructions on how to request a hearing. You typically have 30 days from the date of the denial notice to file an appeal.
If your income is too high for Medicaid, you may still qualify for:
- Subsidized health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace at Healthcare.gov. North Dakota uses the federal marketplace for ACA plans.
- CHIP for children in households with incomes up to 205% FPL
- Other assistance programs like SNAP, LIHEAP, or WIC. Check all your options with our free benefits screener.
Tips for a Successful Medicaid Application
- Apply as soon as possible. Coverage can sometimes be retroactive up to three months before the month you apply, as long as you were eligible during that time.
- Report income accurately. Underreporting or overreporting income can cause delays or denials.
- Respond quickly to requests for information. If the state asks for additional documents, respond promptly to avoid delays.
- Keep copies of everything. Save copies of your application and all documents you submit.
- Update your information. If your income, household size, or address changes, report it to North Dakota HHS promptly to keep your coverage active.
- Check your mail regularly. Important notices about your eligibility come by mail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid in North Dakota?
Most Medicaid applications are processed within 45 days. Applications for pregnant women may be processed faster. You can check your status online or by calling 1-866-614-6005.
Can I apply for Medicaid and other benefits at the same time?
Yes. The North Dakota online benefits portal lets you apply for Medicaid, SNAP (food assistance), TANF (cash assistance), LIHEAP (heating assistance), and other programs all in one application.
Is there an asset limit for North Dakota Medicaid?
For most applicants, including children, families with children, pregnant women, and expansion adults, there is no asset test. Older adults (65 and over) and people with disabilities may be subject to asset limits.
What if I am pregnant and uninsured?
Pregnant women in North Dakota can qualify for Medicaid with household incomes up to 175% FPL. The unborn child counts as a household member, which may increase your household size and help you qualify. Coverage lasts through pregnancy and for 12 months postpartum.
Can non-citizens apply for Medicaid in North Dakota?
Certain lawfully present immigrants may qualify for Medicaid, particularly pregnant women and children. Undocumented immigrants are generally not eligible for full Medicaid but may receive emergency Medicaid for life-threatening conditions. Applying for Medicaid does not negatively affect immigration status for most applicants.
How do I renew my Medicaid coverage?
North Dakota will send you a renewal form before your coverage period ends. You may be able to renew online through the benefits portal. It is important to respond to renewal notices promptly to avoid a gap in coverage.
Additional Resources
- North Dakota Benefits Overview for a complete guide to all available assistance programs in the state
- Check your eligibility for Medicaid and 10+ other programs with our free screening tool
- North Dakota HHS: www.hhs.nd.gov
- Medical Services Division: (701) 328-7068 or toll-free (800) 755-2604
- Email: dhsmed@nd.gov
Medicaid can be a lifeline for North Dakota residents who need affordable health care. Whether you are applying for yourself, your children, or a family member, the process is straightforward when you know what to expect. Start by checking your eligibility with our free screening tool, and then follow the steps above to submit your application.
