Where to Start: The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration

In Indiana, you apply for Medicaid through the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), which runs the program. You have three ways to start: online through the FSSA website, by phone, or in person at a local FSSA office. The online portal is the fastest route — you can begin an application any time of day and save your progress to finish later.

The phone line is 1-888-544-7431. Staff can answer questions about what you need to bring and whether you might be covered. If you prefer to apply in person, find your local FSSA office on the FSSA website by entering your county. Walk-in hours vary by location, so call ahead.

Key Takeaways

  • You apply through the Indiana FSSA online, by phone at 1-888-544-7431, or at your local FSSA office in person.
  • Indiana Medicaid covers children, pregnant people, parents, seniors, and people with disabilities — income limits depend on which group you fall into.
  • You will need proof of income, residency, citizenship or immigration status, and Social Security numbers for everyone in your household.
  • The FSSA typically makes a decision within 30 days of receiving a complete application, though some cases take longer.
  • If you are denied, you have the right to request a hearing and present your case to an independent reviewer.

What Documents You Need Before You Apply

Gather these items before you start, whether online or by phone. You will need proof of income for the past 30 days — a pay stub, tax return, or a letter from your employer stating your wages. If you are self-employed, bring tax returns from the last two years. If you have no income, bring a statement saying so.

You also need proof of Indiana residency: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your current address. Bring your Social Security number and proof of citizenship or immigration status — a birth certificate, passport, or green card. If you are applying for a child, bring their birth certificate and Social Security card. The FSSA may ask for additional documents depending on your situation, such as proof of disability or medical records.

Income Limits and Which Programs You Might may have access to For

Indiana Medicaid has different income limits for different groups. For a single adult with no children, the limit is roughly 138% of the federal poverty line, which changes each year. For a family of three, the limit is higher. Pregnant people and children under 19 have separate, often higher limits. Parents caring for children have their own income threshold.

If your income is above the standard limit, you may still be covered under a different program — Indiana has pathways for people with disabilities, seniors over 65, and people with certain medical conditions. The FSSA website lists current income limits by household size and category. Because these limits change annually, call 1-888-544-7431 to confirm your household's limit before you apply.

The Online Application Process, Step by Step

Go to the FSSA website and select "Apply for Benefits Online." You will create an account with an email and password. The system will ask for your name, date of birth, address, and phone number. It will then ask whether you are applying for yourself, a child, a spouse, or multiple people. Select everyone in your household who needs coverage.

Next, you will enter income information for each person. The form asks for your job title, employer name, and monthly wages. If you receive unemployment, Social Security, child support, or other income, report that too. You will then upload documents: a photo of your pay stub or income letter, your proof of residency, and your Social Security card or birth certificate. The system accepts PDF, JPG, and PNG files.

After you submit, you will receive a confirmation number. Write it down. The FSSA will send you an email or letter within a few days telling you what happens next. If they need more information, they will tell you how to send it and by when.

What Happens After You Submit Your Application

The FSSA has 30 days to review your application and make a decision. During this time, they may contact you by phone or mail asking for clarification or additional documents. Answer quickly — if they ask for something and you do not respond within the deadline they give you, your application may be denied.

You will receive a letter in the mail with the decision. If you are approved, the letter will tell you your coverage start date and what services are covered. If you are denied, the letter will explain why and tell you how to request a hearing. Many denials happen because documents were missing or income was reported incorrectly, so read the reason carefully.

What to Do If You Are Denied

You have the right to request a hearing within 30 days of the denial letter. To request a hearing, call 1-888-544-7431 or send a written request to the FSSA office that denied you. Include your name, case number (on the denial letter), and the reason you disagree with the decision.

At the hearing, you can present documents, answer questions, and explain your situation to an independent hearing officer. You can bring someone with you to help — a family member, friend, or advocate. The hearing officer will make a new decision based on what you present. This process usually takes 30 to 60 days from the time you request the hearing.

Keeping Your Coverage Active After Approval

Once you are approved, Indiana Medicaid coverage lasts for a set period — usually 12 months. Before your coverage ends, the FSSA will send you a renewal form. You must complete it and return it by the deadline, or your coverage will stop. The renewal asks for the same information as the original application: current income, household members, and proof documents.

If your income or household changes during your coverage period — you get a new job, lose a job, have a baby, or move — report it to the FSSA within 30 days. Call 1-888-544-7431 or log into your online account to report changes. Reporting changes keeps your coverage accurate and prevents overpayments that you might have to repay later.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

It depends on your immigration status. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) and certain other immigration statuses are covered. Undocumented immigrants are not covered under regular Medicaid, though Indiana has a separate program for emergency services. Bring whatever immigration documents you have when you apply, and the FSSA will tell you what you may have access to for.

How long does it take to get coverage after I am approved?

Coverage usually starts on the first day of the month after you are approved. If you are approved on March 15, your coverage begins April 1. In some cases — pregnancy, disability, or emergency situations — coverage can start sooner. The approval letter will tell you your exact start date.

What if I need coverage before my application is decided?

If you are pregnant, a child, or in an emergency medical situation, you may be covered while your application is being reviewed. Tell the FSSA when you apply that you need emergency coverage. They will let you know whether you may have access to and when coverage would start.

Can I apply for my child if I am not their parent?

A grandparent, guardian, or other caregiver can apply on behalf of a child. You will need the child's birth certificate, Social Security number, and proof that you have legal custody or guardianship. Call 1-888-544-7431 before you apply to confirm what documents the FSSA needs in your situation.

What if my income is too high but I have large medical bills?

Indiana has a program called the Medically Needy pathway that may cover you if your medical expenses are high enough to bring your income below the limit after those expenses are subtracted. This is a separate application process. Call the FSSA to ask whether you might be covered under this pathway.