If you live in Utah and need affordable health coverage, Medicaid could be the answer. Utah expanded Medicaid in January 2020, opening the door for thousands of low-income adults who previously had no path to coverage. Whether you are an adult without children, a parent, pregnant, or caring for a family, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about how to apply for Medicaid in Utah.
Not sure if you qualify for Medicaid or other benefits? Check your eligibility in minutes with our free screener.
Who Is Eligible for Utah Medicaid?
Utah Medicaid covers several groups of residents based on income, age, disability status, and household composition. Since Utah is a Medicaid expansion state, adults under 65 can qualify even if they do not have dependent children.
Here are the main eligibility categories:
- Adults (ages 19 to 64): Household income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
- Children (ages 0 to 18): Household income up to 205% of FPL (includes CHIP)
- Pregnant women: Household income up to 144% of FPL, with coverage through 12 months postpartum
- Aged, blind, or disabled individuals: Subject to both income and asset limits
- Women diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer: Through the Utah Cancer Control Program (UCCP), with household income up to 250% of FPL for screening eligibility
You must also be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant and a Utah resident to apply.
Utah Medicaid Income Limits for 2026
Income limits are based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) and the Federal Poverty Level. The table below shows annual income limits for the most common eligibility groups. These figures include the built-in 5% income disregard.
| Household Size | Adults (138% FPL) | Children (205% FPL) | Pregnant Women (144% FPL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $21,597 | $32,104 | $22,537 |
| 2 | $29,214 | $43,431 | $30,485 |
| 3 | $36,831 | $54,758 | $38,434 |
| 4 | $44,448 | $66,085 | $46,382 |
| 5 | $52,065 | $77,412 | $54,330 |
| 6 | $59,682 | $88,739 | $62,278 |
Note: These figures are based on 2025 Federal Poverty Level guidelines, which remain in effect until updated. For each additional household member, add approximately $7,617 (adults), $11,327 (children), or $7,948 (pregnant women).
If your income is slightly above these limits, you may still qualify for subsidized health insurance through the ACA Marketplace. Use our free screener to check all the programs you might be eligible for.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Utah: Step by Step
Utah offers several ways to submit your Medicaid application. You can apply online, by phone, by mail, by fax, or in person at a local office.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before starting your application, collect the following:
- Proof of identity: Driver's license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate
- Social Security numbers for all household members applying
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, tax returns, W-2 forms, or a letter from your employer
- Proof of Utah residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, or mail with your Utah address
- Immigration documents (if applicable): Green card, work permit, or visa
- Proof of pregnancy (if applicable): A letter or statement from your doctor
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Online (Recommended) The fastest way to apply is through Utah's myCase portal at jobs.utah.gov/mycase. You can create an account, complete the application, upload documents, and track your case status all in one place.
By Phone Call the Utah Benefits Help Line at 1-866-435-7414 (Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM MT). A representative can help you apply over the phone.
You can also apply through the federal marketplace by calling 1-800-318-2596.
By Mail or Fax Download the paper application from the Utah Department of Health and Human Services website, complete it, and mail or fax it to your local eligibility office.
In Person Visit a local Department of Workforce Services (DWS) office. You can find your nearest office at jobs.utah.gov.
Step 3: Complete the Application
The application asks for information about:
- Everyone in your household, including children
- Your monthly income from all sources (wages, self-employment, Social Security, child support)
- Any current health insurance coverage
- Your housing and living situation
- Any disabilities or medical conditions
Be thorough and accurate. Incomplete applications can cause delays.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Upload or mail copies of your supporting documents. The myCase portal allows you to upload photos or scans of your documents directly. Do not send originals.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Utah aims to process Medicaid applications within 45 days (or 90 days for disability-related applications). You will receive a notice by mail telling you whether you have been approved or denied.
If approved, your coverage may be retroactive up to three months before your application date, as long as you were eligible during that time.
Step 6: Choose a Health Plan
Once approved, you will need to select a managed care health plan. Utah Medicaid operates through managed care organizations that coordinate your care. You will receive information about your plan options after approval.
What Medicaid Covers in Utah
Utah Medicaid provides comprehensive health coverage, including:
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Prescription medications
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Preventive care and screenings
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Maternity and newborn care
- Emergency services
- Dental care (limited for adults, more comprehensive for children)
- Vision care for children
- Home health services
- Durable medical equipment
Some services may require prior authorization from your managed care plan.
What to Do If You Are Denied
If your Medicaid application is denied, you have options:
- Review the denial letter carefully. It will explain the specific reason you were denied.
- Request a fair hearing. You have 30 days from the date of the denial notice to request a hearing.
- Provide additional documentation. Sometimes denials happen because of missing information. You may be able to resolve the issue by submitting the required documents.
- Explore other options. Even if you do not qualify for Medicaid, you may be eligible for subsidized coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, CHIP for your children, or other assistance programs.
Check all the benefits you may qualify for with our free screening tool.
Important Things to Know About Utah Medicaid
Work Requirements: Utah submitted a waiver to implement Medicaid work requirements with a July 2026 target date. Currently, there is no active work requirement for Medicaid in Utah. Check medicaid.utah.gov for the latest updates.
Renewal: You must renew your Medicaid coverage every 12 months. Utah will send you a renewal notice before your coverage period ends. Respond promptly to avoid losing coverage.
Reporting Changes: If your income, household size, address, or other circumstances change, report them within 10 days through myCase or by calling the help line.
Retroactive Coverage: If you had medical bills in the three months before you applied and you were eligible at that time, Medicaid may cover those expenses retroactively.
Other Benefits You May Qualify For
Many Utah residents who qualify for Medicaid also qualify for other assistance programs. These include:
- SNAP (Food Stamps): Help with grocery costs for households at or below 130% FPL
- LIHEAP (HEAT Program): Help paying heating and cooling bills for households up to 150% FPL
- WIC: Nutrition assistance for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children
- Childcare Assistance (CCAP): Subsidized childcare for working families
Visit our Utah Benefits Overview page or use our free screener to see everything you may qualify for in one place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid in Utah?
Most applications are processed within 45 days. Applications based on a disability may take up to 90 days. Applying online through myCase is typically the fastest method.
Can I apply for Utah Medicaid if I am undocumented?
Undocumented immigrants are generally not eligible for full Medicaid coverage. However, emergency Medicaid is available regardless of immigration status for qualifying emergency medical conditions. Lawfully present immigrants may qualify depending on their status and length of time in the country.
Do I need to be employed to get Medicaid in Utah?
No. As of early 2026, Utah does not have an active work requirement for Medicaid. You can qualify based on income alone, whether you are employed or not.
Can I have other insurance and still get Medicaid?
Yes. Medicaid can serve as secondary insurance if you have other coverage. In some cases, Medicaid may help pay premiums, deductibles, or copays for your other insurance.
What is the difference between Medicaid and CHIP in Utah?
Medicaid covers low-income adults and children. CHIP (the Children's Health Insurance Program) extends coverage to children in families with incomes too high for Medicaid but too low to afford private insurance. In Utah, children with household incomes up to 205% FPL may qualify for Medicaid or CHIP.
How do I renew my Utah Medicaid coverage?
You will receive a renewal packet by mail or through your myCase account about a month before your coverage period ends. Complete and return it promptly. You can also renew online through myCase.
Where can I get help with my application?
You can call the Utah Benefits Help Line at 1-866-435-7414, visit a local DWS office, or contact a certified application counselor or navigator in your area for free assistance.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Eligibility for Medicaid is determined by the State of Utah. We are not affiliated with any government agency. Check your potential eligibility with our free screening tool.
