Arizona provides free or low cost health coverage to eligible residents through AHCCCS, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System. AHCCCS is Arizona's version of Medicaid and currently serves over 2 million people across the state. Whether you are a parent, a single adult, pregnant, a senior, or caring for someone with a disability, this guide will walk you through exactly how to apply for Medicaid in Arizona, what income limits apply, and what documents you need to gather before starting your application.
Not sure if you qualify? Check your eligibility in minutes with our free screener to see all the benefits you may be entitled to, including AHCCCS.
Who Qualifies for AHCCCS in Arizona?
Arizona expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, which means low income adults without dependent children can qualify for coverage. Eligibility is based on your household size, income, residency, and citizenship or immigration status.
To be eligible for AHCCCS you must:
- Be a resident of Arizona
- Be a U.S. citizen or have qualified immigration status
- Meet the income requirements for your eligibility group
- Provide a valid Social Security number
Eligibility Groups
AHCCCS covers several groups of people, each with slightly different income thresholds:
- Low income adults (ages 19 to 64): Income up to 133% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). You do not need dependent children to qualify.
- Children (under 19): Income limits vary by age, ranging from 133% to 147% FPL. KidsCare (Arizona's CHIP program) covers children in families with income up to 225% FPL.
- Pregnant women: Income up to 156% FPL. The unborn child counts toward household size.
- Seniors (65 and older): Income up to 100% FPL for basic coverage, or may qualify through SSI or Medicare Savings Programs.
- People with disabilities: Income up to 100% FPL, or up to 250% FPL for earned income through the Freedom to Work program.
Arizona Medicaid (AHCCCS) Income Limits for 2026
Income limits for AHCCCS are based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) for most groups. The table below shows the limits for low income adults, which is the largest eligibility category.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,735 | $20,820 |
| 2 | $2,345 | $28,140 |
| 3 | $2,954 | $35,448 |
| 4 | $3,564 | $42,768 |
| 5 | $4,174 | $50,088 |
| 6 | $4,784 | $57,408 |
| 7 | $5,394 | $64,728 |
| 8 | $6,004 | $72,048 |
These limits are based on 133% FPL (effectively 138% with the 5% income disregard). If your income is slightly above these limits, you may still qualify for other programs like KidsCare for children or subsidized Marketplace coverage. Use our free screener to check all programs at once.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Arizona: Step by Step
There are three main ways to apply for AHCCCS in Arizona. The fastest and most common method is applying online.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before you begin, collect the following for each person in your household who needs coverage:
- Proof of identity: Driver's license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate
- Social Security numbers for all applicants
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, tax returns, W-2 forms, or a letter from your employer
- Proof of Arizona residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your Arizona address
- Immigration documents (if applicable): Green card, work permit, or other immigration paperwork
- Proof of pregnancy (if applicable): A letter or statement from your doctor
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Option A: Apply Online (Recommended)
The fastest way to apply is through the Health-e-Arizona Plus portal at healthearizonaplus.gov.
- Visit the website and create an account
- Complete the online application with your household and income information
- Upload copies of your supporting documents
- Submit the application
- You will receive a confirmation number. Save this for your records.
The online portal is available 24 hours a day and allows you to check your application status, upload documents, and manage your coverage after enrollment.
Option B: Apply by Phone
Call the AHCCCS customer service line at 1-855-432-7587. Representatives can help you complete an application over the phone during business hours.
Option C: Apply in Person or by Mail
You can also apply at your local Department of Economic Security (DES) office. To find the nearest office, visit the DES website or call the number above. If you prefer to mail your application, you can download a paper application from the AHCCCS website and send it to the address listed on the form.
Step 3: Complete Your Interview (If Required)
For most AHCCCS applications, no interview is required. However, if you are applying for certain programs like cash assistance alongside Medicaid, you may need to complete a phone interview. AHCCCS will contact you if this step is necessary.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
AHCCCS is required to process your application within 45 days (or 90 days for disability related applications). In many cases, you will receive a decision faster. You can check your application status anytime through the Health-e-Arizona Plus portal.
Step 5: Choose a Health Plan
Once approved, you will need to select a managed care health plan. AHCCCS works with several health plans across the state, including:
- Arizona Complete Health
- Banner University Family Care
- Care1st Health Plan
- Mercy Care
- Molina Healthcare
- UnitedHealthcare Community Plan
If you do not choose a plan, one will be assigned to you. Each plan has its own network of doctors and providers, so review the options to find one that includes your preferred providers.
What Does AHCCCS Cover?
AHCCCS provides comprehensive health coverage, including:
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Prescription medications
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Dental care (for both adults and children)
- Vision care
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Maternity and newborn care
- Preventive care and immunizations
- Emergency services
- Transportation to medical appointments
Most AHCCCS members pay no premiums and have little to no out of pocket costs for covered services.
KidsCare: Arizona's CHIP Program
If your household income is too high for standard AHCCCS but you have children under 19, they may qualify for KidsCare. This program covers children in families with income between 133% and 225% FPL. KidsCare requires a small monthly premium but provides comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
| Household Size | KidsCare Monthly Income Limit (225% FPL) |
|---|---|
| 2 | $3,970 |
| 3 | $5,000 |
| 4 | $6,030 |
| 5 | $7,060 |
You can apply for KidsCare through the same Health-e-Arizona Plus portal.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply even if you are unsure about eligibility. The system will check all programs you might qualify for, including KidsCare and other assistance.
- Respond to all requests promptly. If AHCCCS asks for additional documents, submit them as soon as possible to avoid delays.
- Report changes. Once enrolled, notify AHCCCS of any changes in income, household size, or address within 10 days.
- Renew on time. AHCCCS coverage must be renewed annually. Watch for renewal notices in the mail and respond before the deadline to avoid a gap in coverage.
- Keep copies of everything. Save your confirmation numbers, uploaded documents, and any correspondence from AHCCCS.
What to Do If You Are Denied
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Your denial letter will explain the reason and include instructions for requesting a hearing. You typically have 30 days to file an appeal. Common reasons for denial include:
- Income above the limit for your eligibility group
- Missing documents or information
- Not meeting residency requirements
If you were denied due to income, you may still qualify for subsidized health insurance through the federal Marketplace at HealthCare.gov, or for other benefit programs. Try our free screener to see what other programs you may be eligible for.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for AHCCCS?
Most applications are processed within 45 days. If you apply online and all documents are submitted correctly, you may receive a decision in as little as a few days. Disability related applications may take up to 90 days.
Can I apply for AHCCCS if I am undocumented?
Undocumented immigrants are generally not eligible for full AHCCCS coverage. However, emergency Medicaid may cover emergency medical services regardless of immigration status. Certain lawfully present immigrants may qualify for coverage depending on their status and how long they have been in the country.
Is there an asset or resource limit for AHCCCS?
For most AHCCCS programs (MAGI based), there is no asset limit. Your eligibility is based on income only. However, the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) for nursing home level care does have an asset limit of $2,000 for a single applicant.
Can I apply for AHCCCS and SNAP at the same time?
Yes. The Health-e-Arizona Plus portal allows you to apply for AHCCCS, SNAP (called Nutrition Assistance in Arizona), and cash assistance all in one application.
What if my income changes after I am enrolled?
You must report any income changes to AHCCCS within 10 days. If your income increases above the limit, you may lose eligibility. However, you could transition to subsidized Marketplace coverage without a gap if you report the change promptly.
Does AHCCCS cover dental and vision?
Yes. AHCCCS provides dental and vision coverage for both adults and children, which is more comprehensive than Medicaid programs in many other states.
Additional Resources
- Arizona Benefits Overview for a complete look at all available programs in Arizona
- Check your eligibility for all programs with our free benefits screener
- AHCCCS official website for the latest program information
- Health-e-Arizona Plus to apply online
Applying for Medicaid in Arizona does not have to be complicated. Start with the Health-e-Arizona Plus online portal, have your documents ready, and submit your application today. If you want to check your eligibility for AHCCCS and other benefit programs before applying, use our free screener to get personalized results in just a few minutes.
