Applying for Medicaid in Louisiana does not have to be complicated. Louisiana is one of the states that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, which means more residents qualify for free or low-cost health coverage than ever before. Whether you are a low-income adult, a parent, pregnant, or caring for children, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about eligibility, income limits, required documents, and each way you can submit your application.
Not sure if you qualify? Use our free screening tool to check your eligibility for Medicaid and other benefit programs in minutes.
Who Qualifies for Medicaid in Louisiana?
Louisiana's Medicaid program, known as Healthy Louisiana, covers a broad range of residents. Because Louisiana expanded Medicaid in 2016, adults without children can also qualify based on income alone. Here are the main groups eligible for coverage:
- Adults ages 19 to 64 with household income at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
- Children under 19 with family income at or below 212% FPL (through LaCHIP, Louisiana's Children's Health Insurance Program)
- Pregnant women with household income at or below 212% FPL
- Parents and caretaker relatives of children under 19
- Seniors age 65 and older who meet income and resource requirements
- People with disabilities who meet medical and financial criteria
You must also be a resident of Louisiana and either a U.S. citizen or a qualified immigrant to be eligible.
For a broader look at benefits available in the state, visit our Louisiana Benefits Overview.
Louisiana Medicaid Income Limits
Your eligibility depends on your household size and monthly income. The table below shows approximate monthly income limits for the most common Medicaid categories, based on the Federal Poverty Level guidelines. These figures are updated annually, so always confirm with the Louisiana Department of Health for the most current amounts.
| Household Size | Adults (138% FPL) | Children/Pregnant Women (212% FPL) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,800/month | $2,764/month |
| 2 | $2,430/month | $3,733/month |
| 3 | $3,061/month | $4,701/month |
| 4 | $3,697/month | $5,678/month |
| 5 | $4,330/month | $6,651/month |
| 6 | $4,961/month | $7,622/month |
Income limits shown are approximate and based on 2025 Federal Poverty Level guidelines. For each additional household member, add approximately $628/month (138% FPL) or $965/month (212% FPL). Check with the Louisiana Department of Health for current figures.
Medicaid uses Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) for most applicants. This includes wages, salary, self-employment income, Social Security benefits, and other taxable income. Certain deductions, like a standard 5% income disregard, may apply, which is why the effective threshold is sometimes described as 138% FPL rather than 133% FPL.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Medicaid in Louisiana
Louisiana offers four ways to apply for Medicaid. Choose the method that works best for you.
Option 1: Apply Online
The fastest way to apply is through the Healthy Louisiana enrollment portal.
- Go to myplan.healthy.la.gov
- Create an account with your email address and a password
- Fill out the application with your personal information, household details, and income
- Upload or submit any required documents (see the documents section below)
- Submit your application and save your confirmation number
Most online applications are processed within 45 days (or 10 days for pregnant women applying on the basis of pregnancy).
Option 2: Apply by Phone
Call the Medicaid helpline at 1-888-342-6207. A representative can walk you through the application over the phone and answer any questions about eligibility. Phone lines are typically available Monday through Friday during business hours.
Option 3: Apply in Person
Visit your local Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) office or parish health unit. Staff can help you complete the application and review your documents on the spot. To find the office closest to you, visit the LDH website or call 1-888-342-6207.
Option 4: Apply by Mail
Download a paper application from the Louisiana Department of Health website, fill it out completely, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Be sure to include copies (not originals) of any supporting documents.
Documents You Will Need
Having the right paperwork ready before you start will speed up the process. While exact requirements can vary, you should generally have:
- Proof of identity: Driver's license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate
- Social Security numbers for everyone applying
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, W-2 forms, tax returns, or a letter from your employer. If self-employed, bring profit and loss statements
- Proof of Louisiana residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, or mail showing your Louisiana address
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status: Birth certificate, U.S. passport, or immigration documents
- Proof of pregnancy (if applicable): A statement from your doctor or prenatal care provider
- Information about current health insurance (if any)
- Information about other benefits you currently receive
If you do not have all documents at the time of application, submit your application anyway. You can provide missing documents later without losing your application date.
What Happens After You Apply
Once your application is submitted, here is what to expect:
- Application review: The Louisiana Department of Health reviews your application and verifies your information. This typically takes up to 45 days, though applications based on pregnancy or disability may follow different timelines.
- Request for additional information: If anything is missing or unclear, you will receive a notice asking for more documentation. Respond promptly to avoid delays.
- Eligibility determination: You will receive a written notice by mail telling you whether you have been approved or denied.
- Choose a health plan: If approved, you will select a Healthy Louisiana managed care plan. Louisiana currently works with several managed care organizations that coordinate your benefits. If you do not choose a plan, one will be assigned to you.
- Receive your Medicaid card: Your managed care plan will send you a membership card. Keep this with you for all medical visits.
What Medicaid Covers in Louisiana
Louisiana Medicaid provides comprehensive health coverage including:
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Prescription medications
- Mental health and substance use disorder services
- Preventive care and screenings
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Emergency room visits
- Maternity and newborn care
- Dental care (limited for adults, more comprehensive for children)
- Vision care
- Transportation to medical appointments (non-emergency medical transportation)
Children enrolled through LaCHIP receive a full range of services under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply as soon as possible. Medicaid coverage can begin as early as the date of your application, or even up to three months before if you had qualifying medical expenses.
- Be accurate. Providing incorrect information can delay your application or lead to denial.
- Keep copies. Save copies of everything you submit, including your confirmation number if applying online.
- Check your mail. Important notices and requests for information will come by mail. Respond quickly to keep your application on track.
- Ask for help. If the process feels overwhelming, call 1-888-342-6207 or visit a local LDH office. You can also dial 2-1-1 to reach Louisiana 211, a free service that connects residents with local resources and assistance.
Renewing Your Louisiana Medicaid
Medicaid is not a one-time enrollment. You must renew your coverage each year (every 12 months). Louisiana will send you a renewal form before your coverage is set to expire. You can renew online through the Healthy Louisiana portal, by phone, by mail, or in person. If you do not complete your renewal on time, your coverage may end.
Other Benefits You May Qualify For
If you qualify for Medicaid, you may also be eligible for other assistance programs in Louisiana:
- SNAP (food stamps): Helps with grocery costs. Apply through the Louisiana CAFE portal or call 1-888-524-3578
- LIHEAP: Helps pay heating and cooling bills. Call 1-888-454-2001
- WIC: Nutrition support for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. Call 1-800-251-2229
- Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP): Helps working families pay for child care. Call 1-877-453-2721
- LaCHIP: If your children do not qualify for Medicaid, they may qualify for LaCHIP with higher income limits (up to 212% FPL)
Check your eligibility for all of these programs at once with our free screener.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid in Louisiana?
Most applications are processed within 45 days. Applications based on pregnancy are typically processed faster, often within 10 days. If your application requires additional documentation, the timeline may be longer.
Can I apply for Medicaid if I am currently employed?
Yes. Having a job does not disqualify you from Medicaid. Eligibility is based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level. Many working families and individuals qualify for coverage.
Is there an enrollment period for Medicaid?
No. Unlike marketplace health insurance, Medicaid does not have an open enrollment period. You can apply at any time of the year.
What if I am denied Medicaid?
If your application is denied, you will receive a written notice explaining the reason. You have the right to appeal the decision. The notice will include instructions on how to file an appeal and the deadline for doing so. You may also be eligible for subsidized marketplace coverage through Healthcare.gov.
Does Louisiana Medicaid cover dental and vision?
Louisiana Medicaid provides limited dental benefits for adults, including emergency dental care and some preventive services. Children enrolled in Medicaid or LaCHIP receive more comprehensive dental and vision coverage.
Can immigrants apply for Medicaid in Louisiana?
Qualified immigrants, including lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees, may be eligible for Medicaid. Undocumented immigrants generally do not qualify, though emergency Medicaid may cover certain emergency medical conditions regardless of immigration status. Pregnant women who are qualified immigrants may also be eligible.
How do I check the status of my application?
You can check your application status by logging into your account at myplan.healthy.la.gov or by calling 1-888-342-6207.
Get Started Today
Applying for Medicaid in Louisiana is free and can be done in just a few steps. If you are unsure whether you qualify, use our free benefits screener to find out in minutes. You may be eligible for Medicaid and several other programs that can save your household hundreds of dollars each month.
For more information about all available benefits in Louisiana, visit our Louisiana Benefits Overview page.
