If you live in Alabama and need affordable health coverage, understanding Medicaid eligibility is one of the most important steps you can take. Alabama has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, which means eligibility rules are stricter than in many other states. This guide breaks down exactly who qualifies, what the income limits are for 2026, and how to apply.
Not sure if you qualify? Use our free eligibility screener to check in minutes, or visit our Alabama Benefits Overview for a full look at all available programs.
Who Qualifies for Alabama Medicaid in 2026?
Because Alabama has not expanded Medicaid, coverage is limited to specific groups. Childless adults between 19 and 64 generally do not qualify, regardless of income. The following groups may be eligible:
- Children (ages 0 to 18) in low-income families
- Pregnant women
- Parents and caretaker relatives with very low incomes
- Seniors age 65 and older who meet income and asset requirements
- People with disabilities who receive SSI or meet medical criteria
- Medicare beneficiaries who need help with premiums and cost-sharing
Alabama also operates ALL Kids, the state's Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which covers children in families with higher incomes who do not qualify for Medicaid.
2026 Income Limits by Category
Alabama Medicaid income limits are based on a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The 2026 FPL for a single individual in the contiguous United States is $15,960 per year. Limits increase with household size.
All percentages below include the standard 5% FPL income disregard that is applied when determining Medicaid eligibility.
Children (Ages 0 to 18): Up to 146% FPL
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $31,331 | $2,611 |
| 3 | $39,321 | $3,277 |
| 4 | $48,180 | $4,015 |
| 5 | $56,473 | $4,706 |
ALL Kids / CHIP: Up to 317% FPL
Children who do not qualify for Medicaid but live in families earning up to approximately 317% of FPL may qualify for ALL Kids. Monthly premiums may apply depending on income level.
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $68,028 | $5,669 |
| 3 | $85,463 | $7,122 |
| 4 | $104,610 | $8,718 |
| 5 | $122,633 | $10,219 |
Pregnant Women: Up to 146% FPL
Pregnant women qualify at the same income thresholds as children. Coverage continues for 12 months after delivery.
Parents and Caretaker Relatives: Up to 18% FPL
This is one of the lowest parent eligibility thresholds in the country. Only parents with extremely low incomes qualify.
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $3,863 | $322 |
| 3 | $4,853 | $404 |
| 4 | $5,940 | $495 |
| 5 | $6,965 | $580 |
Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD)
Individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) automatically qualify for Alabama Medicaid. For others in this category, income limits are tied to SSI federal benefit rates. In 2026, the individual income limit for ABD Medicaid is approximately $967 per month. An asset limit of $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples also applies.
Nursing Home / Long-Term Care Medicaid
For nursing home Medicaid in 2026, the income cap is $2,982 per month (300% of the federal SSI benefit rate). The asset limit remains $2,000 for individuals. Your primary home may be excluded if its equity is under $730,000.
Important: Dollar amounts shown are estimates based on 2026 federal poverty guidelines and publicly available program data. Actual eligibility is determined by the Alabama Medicaid Agency. Check with your local office for the most current figures.
The Alabama Coverage Gap
Because Alabama has not expanded Medicaid, there is a significant "coverage gap" that affects many residents. Adults aged 19 to 64 who do not have dependent children, are not pregnant, and are not disabled generally cannot qualify for Medicaid at any income level.
Additionally, parents earning more than 18% of FPL but less than 100% of FPL may fall into the gap. They earn too much for Medicaid but too little to qualify for Marketplace subsidies (which start at 100% FPL in non-expansion states).
If you think you may be in the coverage gap, our eligibility screener can help you explore other options, including programs like SNAP, LIHEAP, and other assistance that may be available to you.
How to Apply for Alabama Medicaid: Step by Step
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before you apply, collect the following:
- Social Security numbers for everyone in your household
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or employer letters)
- Proof of Alabama residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement)
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status
- Information about any current health insurance
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
You have several ways to apply:
- Online: Visit medicaid.alabama.gov to submit an application. Adults under 65 without disabilities can also apply through Healthcare.gov.
- By phone: Call the Alabama Medicaid Agency at 1-800-362-1504 for help with your application.
- In person: Visit your local county Department of Human Resources (DHR) office.
- By mail: Download an application from the Alabama Medicaid website and mail it to your county office.
Step 3: Complete the Application
Fill out the application completely. Include information about everyone in your household, all sources of income, and any current insurance. Incomplete applications may delay processing.
Step 4: Attend Any Required Interviews
Some applicants, particularly those applying for aged, blind, and disabled categories, may need to complete an interview.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Alabama Medicaid typically processes applications within 45 days (90 days for disability-based applications). You will receive a notice by mail with the decision. If approved, your coverage may be backdated up to three months before your application date if you were eligible during that time.
What Alabama Medicaid Covers
Alabama Medicaid covers a wide range of services, including:
- Doctor visits and hospital stays
- Prescription medications
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Mental health and substance use treatment
- Maternity and newborn care
- Preventive care and immunizations
- Emergency services
- Dental care for children
- Vision care for children
- Home health services
- Nursing facility care
Coverage details may vary by eligibility category. Children enrolled in Medicaid and ALL Kids generally receive the most comprehensive benefits package.
Medicare Savings Programs
If you have Medicare and a low income, Alabama offers programs to help cover your Medicare costs:
- QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary): Pays Medicare Part A and B premiums, deductibles, and copays for individuals earning up to 100% FPL.
- SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary): Pays Medicare Part B premiums for those earning between 100% and 120% FPL.
- QI (Qualifying Individual): Pays Medicare Part B premiums for those earning between 120% and 135% FPL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Alabama expanded Medicaid?
No. As of 2026, Alabama has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. This means most adults aged 19 to 64 without children, a disability, or a pregnancy do not qualify for Medicaid, regardless of their income.
What is the income limit for a family of four?
For children in a family of four, the income limit is approximately $48,180 per year (146% FPL). For parents, the limit is only about $5,940 per year (18% FPL). For ALL Kids (CHIP), the limit reaches approximately $104,610 per year (317% FPL).
Can I get Medicaid if I am a childless adult in Alabama?
Generally, no. Alabama does not cover childless adults aged 19 to 64 through Medicaid. If your income is at or above 100% of the FPL ($15,960 per year for one person in 2026), you may qualify for subsidized Marketplace coverage through Healthcare.gov.
How long does it take to get approved?
Most applications are processed within 45 days. Disability-related applications may take up to 90 days. You can check your application status through the My Medicaid portal or by calling 1-800-362-1504.
Does Alabama Medicaid cover dental and vision for adults?
Alabama Medicaid provides limited dental benefits for adults, primarily for emergencies. Vision care for adults is also limited. Children receive more comprehensive dental and vision coverage.
Can pregnant women get Medicaid in Alabama?
Yes. Pregnant women with incomes up to 146% of the FPL qualify for Medicaid in Alabama. Coverage extends for 12 months after delivery, regardless of changes in income.
What if I am denied?
You have the right to appeal any denial. The denial notice will include instructions on how to request a fair hearing. You typically have 30 days from the date of the notice to file an appeal.
Next Steps
Navigating Alabama Medicaid can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to figure it out alone. Start with our free eligibility screener to see what programs you may qualify for, including Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP, and more. You can also visit our Alabama Benefits Overview page for a complete look at state and federal programs available to Alabama residents.
For the most current information, visit the Alabama Medicaid Agency or call 1-800-362-1504.
