Louisiana expanded Medicaid in 2016, and today more than 2 million residents rely on the program for health coverage. The program is called Healthy Louisiana, and it covers adults, children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities across a range of income thresholds. If you are trying to figure out whether you qualify, the income limits below are effective March 1, 2026, and reflect the updated Federal Poverty Level (FPL) guidelines.
This guide breaks down every major Medicaid category in Louisiana, shows exact monthly income limits by household size, explains how to apply, and answers the most common eligibility questions.
Who Qualifies for Louisiana Medicaid in 2026
Louisiana runs several distinct Medicaid categories, each with its own income threshold. The category that applies to you depends on your age, family situation, and health status.
The five main coverage groups are:
- Expansion adults (Healthy Louisiana) -- ages 19 to 64, not on Medicare
- Children (LaCHIP) -- under age 19
- Pregnant women (LaMOMS) -- covers pregnancy and 12 months postpartum
- Aged, blind, and disabled (ABD) -- seniors and people with qualifying disabilities
- Long-term care -- nursing home and home- and community-based waiver programs
2026 Income Limits: Expansion Adults (Healthy Louisiana)
Louisiana expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, so most adults ages 19 to 64 who are not enrolled in Medicare can qualify at 138% FPL. There is no asset test and no premium for this group.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|
| 1 | $1,836 | $22,032 |
| 2 | $2,489 | $29,868 |
| 3 | $3,142 | $37,704 |
| 4 | $3,795 | $45,540 |
| 5 | $4,448 | $53,376 |
| 6 | $5,101 | $61,212 |
| 7 | $5,754 | $69,048 |
| 8 | $6,407 | $76,884 |
Add approximately $654 per month for each additional person beyond 8.
2026 Income Limits: Children (LaCHIP)
Louisiana's Children's Health Insurance Program (LaCHIP) covers children under age 19 at up to 217% FPL with no premium. A higher tier called the LaCHIP Affordable Plan (LAP) extends coverage to families with incomes between roughly 218% and 255% FPL, with a small monthly premium.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit (LaCHIP, 217% FPL) | Annual Equivalent |
|---|
| 1 | $2,887 | $34,644 |
| 2 | $3,914 | $46,968 |
| 3 | $4,940 | $59,280 |
| 4 | $5,967 | $71,604 |
| 5 | $6,993 | $83,916 |
| 6 | $8,020 | $96,240 |
| 8 | $10,077 | $120,924 |
Children from families above 217% FPL may still qualify for the LaCHIP Affordable Plan up to approximately 255% FPL. That plan carries a monthly premium that varies by income.
2026 Income Limits: Pregnant Women (LaMOMS)
Louisiana Medicaid for Pregnant Women (LaMOMS) uses a household size that counts the unborn child, so a pregnant woman with no other children is treated as a household of two for eligibility purposes. The income limit is approximately 138% FPL based on that adjusted household size.
| Counted Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Equivalent |
|---|
| 2 (woman + 1 unborn) | $2,489 | $29,868 |
| 3 | $3,142 | $37,704 |
| 4 | $3,795 | $45,540 |
| 5 | $4,448 | $53,376 |
| 6 | $5,101 | $61,212 |
| 8 | $6,408 | $76,896 |
Louisiana was the first state in the country to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 full months after delivery, beginning in April 2022. New mothers retain their Healthy Louisiana coverage for a full year after giving birth, regardless of income changes.
2026 Income Limits: Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD)
Adults who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) automatically qualify for Louisiana Medicaid. For those applying directly without SSI, the income limit is based on the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR).
| Applicant Type | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|
| Single individual | $994 |
| Married couple | $1,488 |
ABD Medicaid also has an asset limit: $2,000 for a single person and $3,000 for a married couple. The primary home, one vehicle, and certain personal property are typically excluded from the asset count.
2026 Income Limits: Long-Term Care and Waiver Programs
Residents who need nursing home care or participate in home- and community-based waiver programs (HCBS) face a higher income limit. This category uses 300% of the FBR.
| Applicant Type | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|
| Single individual | $2,982 |
| Married couple (one applying) | $2,982 per applicant |
The primary home is exempt from asset rules as long as the applicant intends to return, or a spouse or dependent lives there. Community spouse protection rules allow the non-applying spouse to keep up to approximately $162,660 in countable assets.
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs)
Louisiana also offers Medicare Savings Programs for low-income Medicare beneficiaries. These programs pay some or all Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copayments.
| Program | Pays | Income Limit (Single) | Income Limit (Couple) |
|---|
| Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) | Part A and B premiums, deductibles, copays | $1,330/month | $1,783/month |
| Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) | Part B premium only | $1,599/month | $2,143/month |
| Qualifying Individual (QI) | Part B premium only | $1,798/month | $2,412/month |
These limits are approximate and may be adjusted mid-year. Contact the Louisiana Department of Health for the most current figures.
What Counts as Income for Louisiana Medicaid
Most Medicaid categories in Louisiana use Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) rules. MAGI includes:
- Wages and salaries
- Self-employment income
- Social Security benefits (for most applicants)
- Unemployment compensation
- Alimony received (for agreements before January 1, 2019)
- Net rental income
MAGI does not count:
- Child support received
- Gifts
- Most student financial aid
- Veterans' benefits
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments
ABD Medicaid and long-term care programs use older income counting rules that are different from MAGI. Those programs count gross income and allow a personal needs allowance, maintenance standard deductions, and certain other exclusions before comparing to the limit.
How to Apply for Louisiana Medicaid in 2026
There are four ways to apply. Online is the fastest option.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before you start, collect:
- Proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
- Social Security numbers for everyone applying
- Proof of Louisiana residency (utility bill, lease, or mail)
- Proof of income for the past 30 days (pay stubs, award letters, or tax returns)
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status
- Health insurance information if you currently have any coverage
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Online (fastest): Visit the Louisiana Medicaid Self-Service Portal at sspweb.lameds.ldh.la.gov. Applications submitted online go directly to a processing office with no mailing delay. You can also check your application status, report changes, and request a new Medicaid card through this portal.
By phone: Call 1-888-342-6207, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Translation services are available at no cost.
In person: Visit your local Medicaid office or a Louisiana Medicaid Application Center. Regional offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
By mail or fax: Download the paper application from the Louisiana Department of Health website (ldh.la.gov), complete it, and mail or fax it to the address on the form.
Step 3: Submit and Wait for a Decision
For most MAGI-based categories (expansion adults, children, pregnant women), Louisiana is required to process applications within 45 days. For disability-related categories, the processing window extends to 90 days. In practice, many straightforward online applications receive faster decisions.
Step 4: Review Your Coverage Decision
If approved, you will receive a notice by mail showing your coverage start date and the Healthy Louisiana managed care plan you have been assigned. You will typically have a short window to choose a different plan if you prefer. If denied, the notice will explain the reason and describe your appeal rights.
Step 5: Choose a Managed Care Plan
Louisiana Medicaid operates through managed care organizations (MCOs). Once enrolled, you will be assigned to one of several Healthy Louisiana plans if you do not make an active choice. You can compare plans and switch at any time by calling 1-855-229-6848 or visiting healthylajourneys.com.
Renewing Your Louisiana Medicaid Coverage
Medicaid coverage must be renewed every 12 months. Louisiana will use available data sources to try to automatically renew your coverage. If the state cannot verify your information automatically, you will receive a renewal form in the mail. Return it by the deadline shown on the form to avoid a gap in coverage.
You can also update your information or complete your renewal online through the Self-Service Portal.
Special Situations
Job loss: If you lose your job and lose employer health insurance, you may qualify for Medicaid immediately as an expansion adult. Apply as soon as possible, since coverage can begin on the first day of the month you apply.
Income change: If your income drops below the Medicaid threshold, apply right away. Medicaid does not have an open enrollment period like Marketplace plans.
Turning 19: Children covered by LaCHIP must transition to adult Medicaid coverage at age 19. The state should send a renewal notice, but it is worth contacting LDH proactively before your child's 19th birthday to prevent a coverage gap.
Former foster youth: Louisiana covers former foster youth with Medicaid up to age 26, regardless of income, for those who aged out of foster care in Louisiana or another state.
Check Your Eligibility
Not sure which program fits your situation? Run a free eligibility check at benefitsusa.org/screener to see which Louisiana programs you may qualify for based on your household size, income, and circumstances. The screener covers Medicaid, SNAP, CHIP, and other assistance programs in one step.
You can also find more information about benefits available to Louisiana residents at benefitsusa.org/states/louisiana.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for Medicaid in Louisiana for 2026?
For most adults ages 19 to 64, the limit is 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. In 2026, that is $1,836 per month for a single person, $2,489 for a household of two, and $3,142 for a household of three. Children qualify at a higher threshold, up to 217% FPL, which is $3,914 per month for a household of two.
Does Louisiana have expanded Medicaid?
Yes. Louisiana expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act in 2016. Expansion covers adults ages 19 to 64 who are not enrolled in Medicare, with no asset test and no premium.
Can I get Louisiana Medicaid if I work full time?
Yes, as long as your income falls below 138% FPL. Many full-time workers in low-wage jobs qualify. Self-employment income counts, but it is calculated after allowable business expenses.
How long does it take to get approved for Louisiana Medicaid?
For MAGI-based categories (most adults, children, pregnant women), the state must process applications within 45 days. Many online applications receive decisions faster. Disability-related categories have a 90-day processing window.
Does Louisiana Medicaid cover dental and vision?
Medicaid covers dental and vision services for children automatically. For adults, coverage depends on the managed care plan and may be limited. Contact your Healthy Louisiana plan directly to confirm what dental and vision services are included.
What is LaCHIP in Louisiana?
LaCHIP is Louisiana's Children's Health Insurance Program, which covers children under 19 in families with incomes up to 217% FPL. It provides comprehensive coverage including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, dental, and vision at no cost. The LaCHIP Affordable Plan extends coverage to 255% FPL with a small monthly premium.
What is LaMOMS?
LaMOMS is Louisiana Medicaid for Pregnant Women. It covers pregnancy-related care and extends for 12 full months after delivery. The unborn child counts as a household member for income calculations. Louisiana was the first state to offer 12-month postpartum coverage.
Can I apply for Louisiana Medicaid online?
Yes. The Louisiana Medicaid Self-Service Portal at sspweb.lameds.ldh.la.gov accepts online applications. You can also check your application status, report household changes, and renew coverage through the portal.
What if my income is too high for Medicaid?
If your income exceeds the Medicaid limit, you may qualify for subsidized health insurance through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace. Premium tax credits are available for households between 100% and 400% FPL (and in some cases above 400% FPL). Use the free screener at benefitsusa.org/screener to compare Medicaid and Marketplace options side by side.
Does Louisiana Medicaid have a waiting list?
Standard Medicaid categories (expansion adults, children, pregnant women) have no waiting list. Some home- and community-based waiver programs for older adults and people with disabilities do have waiting lists due to limited enrollment slots.
