Where you sign up depends on your state, not a single federal office
Medicaid is run by each state, so there is no national phone number or website where you apply. Instead, you contact your state's Medicaid agency directly. The name and process vary — some states call it Medicaid, others use different names like MediCal (California) or Badgercare (Wisconsin). Your state's agency handles your application, determines whether you meet income and other requirements, and sends you your card if you are found to be may be able to access.
The fastest way to find your state's application is to search "[your state] Medicaid apply" or go to your state's health department website. Most states also let you start an application through Healthcare.gov, which can route you to your state's system. A few states use third-party contractors to process applications, so the website you land on may not say "Medicaid" at all — it will say something like "Benefits" or "Health Coverage".
Key Takeaways
- Each state runs its own Medicaid program, so you apply through your state agency, not a federal office.
- Your state's Medicaid agency name varies by state — search "[your state] Medicaid" to find the right website and phone number.
- You can start most applications online, by phone, by mail, or in person at a local office, depending on what your state offers.
- Processing time is typically two to four weeks, though some states take longer during high-volume periods.
- You will need proof of income, citizenship or immigration status, and residency — have these documents ready before you start.
Finding your state's Medicaid office and application
Start by visiting your state's official health or human services website. Search for "Medicaid" or "health coverage" on that site. Most states have a dedicated page with a phone number, mailing address, and a link to an online application. If you cannot find it, call your state's main health department line and ask for the Medicaid office.
Healthcare.gov also has a state-by-state directory. Go to Healthcare.gov, select your state, and look for the Medicaid section. This will give you a link to your state's application portal or a phone number to call. Some states use Healthcare.gov's system directly; others redirect you to their own website. Either way, you end up in the right place.
If you do not have internet access or prefer to apply by phone, call your state's Medicaid office directly. The phone number is on your state's health department website or on Healthcare.gov. Have your Social Security number, income information, and household details ready when you call.
How to apply: online, by phone, by mail, or in person
Most states now offer online applications, which is usually the fastest route. You create an account, answer questions about your household size, income, and citizenship status, and upload documents. The system tells you right away whether you appear to meet the income limit, though the final decision comes after a caseworker reviews your documents.
If you prefer to apply by phone, call your state's Medicaid office during business hours. A caseworker will walk you through the questions and tell you what documents to send by mail or upload online. Phone applications take longer than online ones because the caseworker has to type your answers, but you get immediate feedback on whether you are in the right ballpark for income.
You can also apply by mail. Request an application form from your state's Medicaid office, fill it out, and mail it back with copies of your documents. This is the slowest method — mail takes time both ways, and your application sits in a queue. Use this option only if you have no internet access and cannot reach anyone by phone.
Some states have local Medicaid offices where you can apply in person. Call ahead to confirm hours and what documents to bring. In-person applications are useful if you need help filling out forms or want to hand over documents directly, but they are not faster than online applications.
Documents you will need to have ready
Before you start, gather proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer), proof of citizenship or immigration status (birth certificate, passport, or green card), and proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mail from a government agency). If you are applying for a child, you will need their birth certificate and Social Security number.
If your income varies or you are self-employed, bring the last two months of bank statements or a profit-and-loss statement. If you receive unemployment, Social Security, or other benefits, bring a recent statement showing the amount. The more documents you have ready, the faster the caseworker can process your application.
Some states ask for additional documents depending on your situation — for example, proof of disability if you are applying for a disability-related program, or proof of pregnancy if you are applying for a pregnancy-related category. Your state's application will tell you what is required. If you are missing something, the caseworker will send you a notice asking for it, which delays your decision by another week or two.
How long approval takes and what happens next
Most states aim to process applications within two to four weeks. Some states are faster; others take six weeks or longer, especially during open enrollment periods when volume is high. Your state's website should say how long it typically takes. If you do not hear back within that timeframe, call your state's Medicaid office and ask for a status update.
Once you are approved, your state will send you a Medicaid card by mail. The card arrives within one to two weeks of approval. Some states also let you view your approval status online and print a temporary proof of coverage while you wait for the card. If you need to see a doctor before the card arrives, ask the doctor's office to look up your coverage using your name and date of birth.
If your application is denied, your state will send you a notice explaining why. Common reasons are income above the limit, failure to provide proof of citizenship or residency, or not meeting the age or disability requirements for the category you applied for. The notice will tell you how to appeal or reapply if your situation changes.
What to do if you cannot reach your state's office
If you are having trouble finding your state's Medicaid office or getting through by phone, call 211. This is a free helpline run by local nonprofits that can tell you your state's Medicaid phone number, website, and local office locations. They can also tell you whether your state is currently accepting applications or if there is a waiting list.
Some states also have community health centers or nonprofit organizations that help people apply for Medicaid. These organizations are free and can fill out the application with you or help you gather documents. Search "[your state] Medicaid help" or "[your city] community health center" to find one near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for Medicaid online if I do not have a computer?
Yes. Call your state's Medicaid office and apply by phone, or visit a local library or community center that has free computer access. You can also ask a friend or family member to help you apply online, or visit a local Medicaid office in person if your state has one.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You can still apply. Tell your state's Medicaid office that you do not have a Social Security number. They will assign you an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or use another method to track your case. You will need to prove your identity with a passport or other government-issued ID.
How do I check the status of my application?
Most states let you check your application status online by logging into your account. You can also call your state's Medicaid office and give them your name and date of birth. Have your application number ready if you have it — it is usually in the confirmation email or letter you received when you applied.
Do I have to reapply every year?
Yes, most states require you to renew your Medicaid coverage once a year. Your state will send you a renewal form by mail or email. You can renew online, by phone, or by mail, just like you applied. If you do not renew by the deadline, your coverage will end.
What if my income or household size changes after I am approved?
Contact your state's Medicaid office right away. Changes like a new job, a child born, or someone moving out can affect your coverage. Your state may increase or decrease your benefits, or you may no longer be may be able to access. It is better to report changes yourself than to wait for your renewal.