How to enroll
Walk-in for in-person assistance Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. (no appointment required)
For over the phone assistance call us at 240-313-3330 Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Eligibility requirements
Eligibility is based on household income and size.
Children
Medicaid provides health coverage to children under the age of 21. The Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP) provides health coverage to uninsured children under the age of 19, whose household incomes are too high to qualify them for Medicaid but are still below certain income limits. Uninsured children in higher income households may qualify for MCHP Premium. MCHP Premium requires a small monthly premium to enroll.
Pregnant Women
Medicaid offers free health coverage to eligible pregnant women. To be eligible, you must meet Medicaid eligibility requirements and the income limits for pregnant women. Pregnant women can be eligible for Medicaid at higher household income limits than other adults. You can apply for Medicaid at any point during your pregnancy.
Former Foster Care Youth Ages 18-25
Former foster care youth under age 26 may be eligible for Medicaid if they were receiving foster care services and Medicaid in Maryland on their 18th birthday. Former foster care youth do not have to meet Medicaid income limits and qualify based on their status as former foster care youth.
Adults
Adults under age 65 who do not have dependent children may be eligible for Medicaid through Maryland Health Connection. To be eligible, you must meet Medicaid eligibility requirements and the income limits for adults.
Parents and Caretaker relatives
Parents and caretaker relatives, including those who are age 65 and older, may be eligible for Medicaid through Maryland Health Connection. To be eligible, you must meet Medicaid eligibility requirements and income limits, and be a parent and caretaker relative of a dependent child under the age of 21.
What to bring
Have these items ready when you apply:
- Birthdates of family/household members
- Social Security numbers (or document numbers for legal immigrants)
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status
- Tax returns for previous years
- Employer and income info (pay stubs, W-2 forms)
- Policy numbers for any current health insurance
- Information about any job-related coverage you or someone in your household is eligible for
- Photo ID, if you’re applying in person
How long does it take
Eligibility workers assist walk-in applicants with enrollment online via the Maryland Health Connection. The process may take up to an hour.
Cost
There is no cost to determine eligibility.
Children eligible for Maryland Children’s Health Premium Program will have a monthly premium for enrollment.
Individuals that are not eligible for Free Medicaid will be referred to the marketplace to purchase a Qualified Health Plans. Costs vary.
Useful Links
Medical Assistance Provider List, July 2024 Española
Maryland Health Connection Resources and Fact Sheets
