Michigan Medicaid Program & Eligibility

Coverage, eligibility, and how to get Medicaid help in Michigan.

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Medicaid Expansion

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State Coverage

Medicaid in Michigan

Michigan's Medicaid program is administered by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), jointly funded by the state and federal government. Michigan's Medicaid expansion program is known as the Healthy Michigan Plan, and the state's CHIP program for children is called MIChild.

MI Medicaid Eligibility

To be eligible for Medicaid in Michigan, you must:
  • Live in Michigan
  • Be a U.S. citizen, national, or a qualified immigrant
  • Have a household income at or below the limit for the specific program that applies to you

Michigan Medicaid covers several groups of people:

  • Children under 19 (through Healthy Kids Medicaid or MIChild)
  • Pregnant women: covers prenatal care through 12 months postpartum, and your newborn is covered through their first birthday
  • Parents and caretakers: if you have a dependent child living with you
  • Adults ages 19–64: under the Healthy Michigan Plan, with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level
  • Seniors and people with disabilities: adults 65 and older, people who are blind, or those living with a qualifying disability
  • Children with special health care needs (through Children's Special Health Care Services)
  • Former foster youth: if you had Medicaid when you aged out of foster care, you can keep your coverage until age 26 with no income limit
  • People diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer
Note: Michigan has expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act through the Healthy Michigan Plan, which means low-income adults without children or a disability may still qualify based on income alone.

Applying for Medicaid

Michigan has multiple ways to apply for Medicaid, so you can choose the option that works for you.

After Applying

After you apply, the state of Michigan will review your application and notify you of your eligibility.

While your application is under review: You may receive a notice in the mail from the state requesting proof of income and proof of identity or citizenship. Make sure to respond promptly so that your application can be processed without delays.

If you’re approved:

  • Coverage may start right away or be retroactive, meaning Medicaid may help cover bills you've already received (up to 3 months prior to your application).
  • You'll receive a mihealth member ID card in the mail. Keep it safe and bring it to all medical appointments.
  • You will usually enroll in a Medicaid health plan (Michigan's managed care system).

Staying enrolled:

  • Report any changes in income, household size, address, or family status as soon as possible.
  • Your coverage must be renewed annually. Watch for renewal notices in the mail and respond promptly to avoid losing coverage.

Income Limits


Income limits for Medicaid in Michigan depend on your household size and what program applies to you.
MI Medicaid Calculator

Michigan Medicaid Income Limit Calculator

Check the monthly income limit for the Michigan Medicaid program that applies to you. Income limits are based on your gross (pre-tax) income.

Make sure to count yourself and, if applicable, your spouse and any dependents.


Income limits effective March 1, 2026. This tool provides an estimate only — actual eligibility is determined by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

What’s Covered

Doctor and Hospital Visits

Preventative Care and Screenings

Behavioral Health and Substance Use Treatment

Prescription Drugs

Maternity and Newborn Care

Dental and Vision Services

Long-Term Care (for eligible individuals)

Transportation Services

Need help with Medicaid
in Michigan?

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions.

What is Medicaid (in Michigan)?

Medicaid in Michigan is a public health insurance program that provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families. In Michigan, Medicaid expansion for adults is known as the Healthy Michigan Plan, and the state's CHIP program for children is called MIChild.

What if I don't qualify for Medicaid in Michigan? 

If your income is too high for Medicaid, your children may still qualify for low-cost coverage through MIChild. Children with special health care needs may also qualify for Children's Special Health Care Services (CSHCS) regardless of income. If you don't qualify for any of these, you may still be able to enroll in an affordable paid plan through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace.

How do I apply for Medicaid in Michigan?

How you apply depends on your age and situation:
- Adults under 65 typically apply online through MI Bridges
- Seniors (65+) and people with disabilities
also apply through MI Bridges or directly with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)

Applications can also be completed and submitted by phone, by mail, or in person at a local MDHHS office.

Why apply or renew through Fortuna Health?ᅠ

Filling out government forms (paper or digital) can be confusing. We know the anxiety of missing important mail from the state. We built Fortuna to take the stress out of health plan coverage.

We provide your own dedicated navigator available by phone and chat to help you out!

Is Medicaid in Michigan free?

For most people, Medicaid in Michigan has no monthly premium and very low or no out-of-pocket costs. Some services may require small copayments, but many groups (such as children and pregnant individuals) are exempt. MIChild charges a small monthly premium per family for children in higher-income households.

What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Medicare is health insurance that generally covers people aged 65+. Medicaid covers people of all ages if you make below a certain income or face hardship based on other circumstances like disability.

Fortuna focuses on Medicaid. If you need Medicare support, we can help you enroll onto a Medicare-Medicaid program.

Can I use Fortuna to renew Medicaid coverage?

Yes, if Fortuna is available through our partner health plan and providers. Please contact your insurer or provider for more information.

Do I need to come to Fortuna through an insurance company or doctor?

Yes, Fortuna is only available through providers and insurers. Please contact us at info@fortunahealth.com for more information.

Ready to renew or start your coverage?

Take the next step and keep your Medicaid benefits active with Fortuna’s simple, guided process.