New Hampshire is one of the 40 states (plus Washington D.C.) that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, giving hundreds of thousands of residents access to low-cost or free health coverage. The state runs its expansion program under the name Granite Advantage Health Care Program, and it covers adults ages 19 through 64 with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Children qualify at even higher income thresholds, making New Hampshire one of the more generous states for pediatric coverage.
Whether you are a single adult, a parent, pregnant, or looking into coverage for your kids, this guide breaks down who qualifies for New Hampshire Medicaid in 2026, what the income limits are, and exactly how to apply. Not sure if you qualify? Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility in minutes.
For a broader look at all the assistance programs available in the Granite State, visit our New Hampshire Benefits Overview.
Who Qualifies for New Hampshire Medicaid in 2026?
New Hampshire Medicaid covers several groups of residents. Eligibility depends on your age, income, household size, and whether you fall into specific categories like pregnancy or disability.
Adults ages 19 to 64 (Granite Advantage): Thanks to Medicaid expansion, adults without dependent children can qualify with household income at or below 138% FPL. This is a significant benefit that did not exist before 2014. Approximately 60,900 New Hampshire residents were enrolled in the expansion program as of mid-2025.
Children under 19: New Hampshire provides some of the most generous children's Medicaid coverage in the country. Kids in families earning up to 318% FPL qualify for Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). That means a family of four earning up to roughly $104,940 per year could still get their children covered.
Pregnant women: Pregnant residents qualify with income up to 196% FPL. Coverage includes prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum care for 60 days after delivery.
Seniors and people with disabilities: Residents age 65 and older or those with qualifying disabilities may be eligible for traditional Medicaid. These groups are subject to different income counting rules and may face asset tests (limits on savings and property).
Parents and caretaker relatives: Parents and caretaker relatives of dependent children may qualify under the standard Medicaid rules at 138% FPL.
2026 Income Limits for New Hampshire Medicaid
Income eligibility is based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) and the 2026 Federal Poverty Level guidelines published by HHS. The 2026 FPL for an individual in the contiguous 48 states is $15,960 per year.
Adults (Granite Advantage) at 138% FPL
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,835 | $22,025 |
| 2 | $2,489 | $29,863 |
| 3 | $3,142 | $37,702 |
| 4 | $3,795 | $45,540 |
| 5 | $4,448 | $53,378 |
| 6 | $5,101 | $61,217 |
Children (Under 19) at 318% FPL
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $5,735 | $68,815 |
| 3 | $7,240 | $86,878 |
| 4 | $8,745 | $104,940 |
| 5 | $10,251 | $123,003 |
| 6 | $11,756 | $141,065 |
Pregnant Women at 196% FPL
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,607 | $31,282 |
| 2 | $3,535 | $42,414 |
| 3 | $4,462 | $53,547 |
| 4 | $5,390 | $64,680 |
Note: These figures are calculated using the 2026 Federal Poverty Level guidelines from HHS. Actual eligibility is determined by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) based on your Modified Adjusted Gross Income. Contact DHHS or check your eligibility with our screener for a personalized estimate.
What Does New Hampshire Medicaid Cover?
New Hampshire Medicaid provides comprehensive health coverage. Under the Granite Advantage program for adults, enrollees choose from one of three managed care plans:
- AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire
- New Hampshire Healthy Families (Ambetter)
- Well Sense Health Plan
Covered services include:
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Emergency room visits
- Prescription medications
- Mental health and substance use disorder treatment
- Preventive care and screenings
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Family planning services
- Dental care (limited for adults, more comprehensive for children)
- Vision care
- Transportation to medical appointments
Children enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP receive an even broader set of benefits under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) program, which covers all medically necessary services for kids under 21.
How to Apply for New Hampshire Medicaid
You can apply for New Hampshire Medicaid through several channels. There is no application fee, and you can apply at any time during the year (there is no limited enrollment period for Medicaid).
Step 1: Gather Your Information
Before you start, have the following ready for each person in your household:
- Social Security numbers
- Date of birth
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or employer letters)
- Proof of residency in New Hampshire (utility bill, lease agreement, or similar)
- Immigration or citizenship documentation
- Information about any current health insurance
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Online (recommended): Visit NH EASY to create an account and apply online. This is the fastest method. The portal is available 24/7 and lets you upload documents, check application status, and manage your benefits.
By phone: Call 1-800-852-3345, extension 9700 during business hours to apply over the phone with the help of a representative.
Through Healthcare.gov: You can also start an application at Healthcare.gov. If you are found eligible for Medicaid, your application will be forwarded to New Hampshire DHHS.
Paper application: Download the application from the NH DHHS website, print it, and either mail it or fax it to (603) 271-8604. You can also drop it off at your local DHHS district office.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
After submitting, DHHS will review your application and may request additional documents. Keep an eye on your mail and your NH EASY account for any follow-up requests.
Step 4: Receive Your Determination
You will receive a notice telling you whether you have been approved or denied. If approved, you will be asked to choose a managed care plan (or one will be assigned to you). Your coverage can start as early as the date of your application.
Understanding the Granite Advantage Program
The Granite Advantage Health Care Program is New Hampshire's version of Medicaid expansion. It was first implemented on August 15, 2014, originally called the New Hampshire Health Protection Program. Here are some key facts:
No work requirement: Although New Hampshire briefly explored work requirements in 2019, a federal court struck them down. There is no work requirement to maintain Granite Advantage coverage.
No asset test: Unlike traditional Medicaid for seniors and people with disabilities, the Granite Advantage program does not count your savings, home, car, or other assets when determining eligibility. Only income matters.
Managed care delivery: All Granite Advantage enrollees receive care through one of three managed care plans. You pick your plan when you enroll. If you do not choose, one will be assigned to you.
Annual renewals: You must renew your Medicaid coverage each year. DHHS will send you a renewal notice. If your information has not changed, renewal may happen automatically. Always respond to any requests for updated information to avoid losing coverage.
Other Health Coverage Options in New Hampshire
If your income is too high for Medicaid, you may still qualify for subsidized health coverage:
ACA Marketplace plans: If you earn between 138% and 400% FPL (or higher, depending on current subsidy rules), you may qualify for premium tax credits that lower the cost of a private health insurance plan through Healthcare.gov. The Covering New Hampshire website at coveringnewhampshire.org offers free help with enrollment.
Medicare Savings Programs: If you are 65 or older or have a qualifying disability and are on Medicare, New Hampshire offers programs that help pay your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copays. Contact ServiceLink at 1-866-634-9412 for more information.
Employer coverage: If you have access to employer-sponsored health insurance, compare the cost with Marketplace options. In some cases, Marketplace plans with subsidies may be more affordable.
What to Do If You Are Denied
If your Medicaid application is denied, you have the right to appeal. The denial notice will explain the reason and include instructions for requesting a fair hearing. Common reasons for denial include:
- Income above the limit for your eligibility group
- Missing documentation
- Not meeting residency requirements
If your income is slightly above the Medicaid limit, you may still qualify for subsidized Marketplace coverage. Use our free screener to check all available programs at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for New Hampshire Medicaid?
Processing times vary, but most applications are reviewed within 45 days. If you applied based on a disability, it may take up to 90 days. Applying online through NH EASY typically results in faster processing.
Can I apply for Medicaid if I am undocumented?
Generally, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for full Medicaid benefits. However, emergency Medicaid is available regardless of immigration status for qualifying emergency medical conditions. Pregnant women with qualifying immigration statuses may also be eligible.
Is there an asset limit for Medicaid in New Hampshire?
For the Granite Advantage expansion program and for children's Medicaid, there is no asset test. Your savings, car, and home are not counted. However, for elderly and disabled Medicaid categories, asset limits may apply (typically $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple).
What is the difference between Medicaid and CHIP in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, Medicaid and CHIP are administered together through DHHS. Children in families with income up to approximately 318% FPL can qualify. The application process is the same, and families do not need to apply separately for CHIP.
Can I have Medicaid and employer insurance at the same time?
Yes. Medicaid can serve as secondary insurance and may cover costs that your employer plan does not, such as copays or services not included in your employer plan.
What happens if my income changes during the year?
You are required to report income changes to DHHS. If your income increases above the Medicaid limit, you may lose eligibility but could qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to purchase a Marketplace plan. If your income decreases, you may become newly eligible.
Does New Hampshire Medicaid cover dental and vision?
For children, Medicaid covers comprehensive dental and vision services. For adults, dental coverage is more limited but includes basic services. Vision coverage for adults typically includes eye exams and may cover glasses in certain situations. Check with your managed care plan for specific covered services.
Take the Next Step
Not sure whether you qualify for Medicaid or another assistance program in New Hampshire? Many residents are eligible for multiple programs at once, including SNAP (food assistance), LIHEAP (heating help), and more. Try our free benefits screener to see everything you may qualify for in just a few minutes. It is fast, free, and confidential.
You can also explore all programs available to New Hampshire residents on our New Hampshire Benefits Overview page.
