Applying for Medicaid

Many groups of people are covered by Medicaid. Even within these groups, though, certain requirements must be met. These may include your age; whether you are pregnant, disabled, blind, or aged; your income and assets, and whether you are a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien. Non-qualified aliens or undocumented immigrants may be eligible for emergency assistance only.

When you apply for Medicaid, the requirements listed above will be taken into account before a decision is made.  If you or someone in your family needs health care, you should apply for Medicaid even if you are not sure whether you qualify or if you have been turned down in the past.

For information about applying for Medicaid please visit the Division of Family and Children Services. Additional information can also be found in the Understanding Medicaid booklet at the bottom on this webpage.

Basic Eligibility Criteria

You may be eligible for Medicaid if your income is low and you match one of the following descriptions:

• You think you are pregnant
• You are a child or teenager
• You are age 65 or older
• You are legally blind
• You have a disability
• You need nursing home care

Eligibility Criteria Chart
Proof of Citizenship requirements apply.

Medicaid ABCs
Learn how Medicaid helps people who can't afford medical care pay for some or all of their medical bills.

TEFRA/Katie Beckett

Medicaid Video - September 2008
The DVD was created and produced by DCH staff and Georgia Public Broadcasting. It shows some of the many people and families who can receive help with their health care needs through the Medicaid program.