Where to start your New Jersey Medicaid application

You apply for Medicaid in New Jersey through the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS), which is part of the state Department of Human Services. The easiest way to start is online through NJ.gov/MyBenefits, where you can submit your application without visiting an office. You can also apply by mail, phone, or in person at your county's Division of Family Development office.

The online portal is fastest because you get an immediate confirmation and can upload documents right away. If you apply by phone, call the DMAHS customer service line at 1-609-631-2424. If you prefer to apply in person, find your county office on the DMAHS website — processing times are the same regardless of method, usually 30 to 45 days from the date you submit everything the program needs.

Key Takeaways

  • Apply online at NJ.gov/MyBenefits, by phone at 1-609-631-2424, or in person at your county Division of Family Development office.
  • You will need proof of income, residency, citizenship or immigration status, and Social Security numbers for everyone in your household.
  • New Jersey has different Medicaid programs for different situations — NJ FamilyCare for children and parents, Medicaid for seniors and people with disabilities, and emergency Medicaid for urgent care.
  • The state will contact you if they need more information, so respond to letters or calls within 10 days or your application may be denied.
  • Once approved, your coverage usually starts on the first day of the month after you meet all requirements.

What documents and information you need to gather

Before you start, collect proof of your household's income for the last 30 days — pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer all work. You also need proof of where you live, such as a utility bill or lease in your name. Bring or upload a photo ID and Social Security cards for everyone in your household, or at minimum their Social Security numbers.

If anyone in your household is not a U.S. citizen, you will need to show their immigration status — a green card, visa, or other immigration document. If you are applying for a child, bring proof of their relationship to you, like a birth certificate. If you are unemployed or self-employed, bring bank statements or records showing your income. The program will ask you to list all household members, their ages, and their relationship to you, so have that information ready before you start the application.

The three main Medicaid programs in New Jersey

NJ FamilyCare covers children and parents in households below certain income limits. Children under 19 are covered if your household income is below about 208% of the federal poverty level, which varies by family size. Parents can be covered at lower income thresholds. This program has no monthly premium for most families, though some pay a small copay when they use services.

Medicaid for seniors and people with disabilities covers adults 65 and older and younger adults with disabilities. Income limits are lower than FamilyCare — usually around 100% of the federal poverty level — but this program covers more services, including long-term care and nursing home costs. You may have to pay a monthly premium based on your income.

Emergency Medicaid covers urgent or emergency medical conditions for people who do not meet the income or citizenship requirements for regular Medicaid. It pays only for the emergency visit itself, not ongoing care. If you need emergency care and think you might be uninsured, tell the hospital you want to be screened for Emergency Medicaid.

Income limits and how they are calculated

New Jersey uses Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) to determine whether your household income qualifies. MAGI is roughly your household's total income before taxes, including wages, self-employment income, and some benefits. It does not include Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or certain other benefits.

Income limits change each year and depend on your household size. For example, in 2024, a single adult with no dependents might may have access to for NJ FamilyCare Medicaid at a different threshold than a parent with two children. The DMAHS website lists current income limits by program and household size. When you apply online, the system will tell you right away whether your income appears to may have access to, though the final decision comes after the state reviews your documents.

If your income is slightly above the limit, you may still be able to get coverage through a spend-down — you pay medical bills out of pocket until your remaining income falls below the limit. Ask the program about spend-down options when you apply.

What happens after you submit your application

After you submit, the state sends you a confirmation number and tells you what documents they still need. Check your mail and email regularly — the state will contact you if anything is missing. You have 10 days to respond to requests for more information. If you miss the deadline, your application will be denied, but you can reapply.

The state usually makes a decision within 30 to 45 days if you provide everything they ask for. Once approved, your coverage starts on the first day of the month after you meet all requirements — so if you are approved on March 15, your coverage typically begins April 1. You will receive a Medicaid card in the mail with your member ID number.

If you are denied, the letter will explain why and tell you how to request a hearing to appeal the decision. You have 90 days from the denial letter to file an appeal.

Special situations: Emergency coverage and expedited processing

If you need medical care right away and cannot wait for a regular application decision, ask the hospital or clinic about presumptive Medicaid. This is temporary coverage that starts immediately while your full application is being processed. You still have to complete the full application, but presumptive Medicaid covers you in the meantime.

If you are pregnant, a child under 19, or over 65, your application may be processed faster than the standard 30 to 45 days. Tell the program about your situation when you apply so they know to prioritize your case. If you are homeless or living in a shelter, you can still apply — use the shelter's address as your residence.

Renewing your coverage each year

Medicaid coverage in New Jersey lasts 12 months from the date you are approved. Before your coverage ends, the state will send you a renewal form. You must return it with updated income and household information within 10 days, or your coverage will end. If your income or household has not changed, you can often renew online or by mail without visiting an office.

If your circumstances change during the year — you lose a job, move, or have a baby — report the change to DMAHS right away. Some changes may end your coverage, while others may increase your benefits. Do not wait for the annual renewal to report changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for Medicaid if I am not a U.S. citizen?

It depends on your immigration status. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) and certain other immigrants can get Medicaid. Undocumented immigrants can get Emergency Medicaid only, which covers urgent medical conditions. Bring whatever immigration documents you have when you apply — the program will tell you what you may have access to for based on your status.

What if my income is too high for regular Medicaid but I still cannot afford insurance?

You may be able to get coverage through the New Jersey health insurance marketplace at healthcare.gov, where you might find plans with lower premiums or cost-sharing based on your income. You can also ask DMAHS about spend-down options or whether you may have access to for a different program.

How long does it take to get a Medicaid card after I am approved?

The card usually arrives by mail within two to three weeks after approval. Your coverage starts on the first day of the month after you are approved, even if the card has not arrived yet. You can use your member ID number to see a doctor before the physical card arrives.

What if I miss the 10-day deadline to send in documents the state requests?

Your application will be denied, but you can reapply immediately. Keep copies of everything you send so you can submit it faster the second time. If you have a good reason for missing the deadline, you can request a hearing and explain the situation to a judge.

Do I have to pay back Medicaid if my income increases later?

No. Medicaid is not a loan. If your income increases, you report the change and your coverage may end or change, but you do not have to repay the benefits you already received. Report income changes within 10 days so the state can update your case.