Maine's Medicaid program is called MaineCare, and it covers hundreds of thousands of residents through free or low-cost health insurance. In 2026, income limits are based on the updated Federal Poverty Level (FPL) figures released in January 2026. Whether you're a working adult, a parent, pregnant, elderly, or have a disability, there's a separate income threshold that determines whether you qualify. This guide breaks down every major category with current dollar amounts.
What Is MaineCare?
MaineCare is Maine's name for Medicaid, the joint federal-state health insurance program for people with low to moderate incomes. Maine expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, which means most adults ages 19 to 64 can qualify based on income alone, without needing a disability or dependent child.
Coverage through MaineCare includes doctor visits, emergency care, prescription drugs, mental health services, substance use treatment, dental care, vision, and more. Most enrollees pay nothing in premiums.
2026 MaineCare Income Limits by Category
Eligibility depends on your coverage category. The groups below have different FPL thresholds.
Adults Ages 19 to 64 (Expansion Adults)
Maine covers most adults under the ACA expansion at up to 138% of the FPL. This is the most commonly used category for working-age adults without children or disabilities.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|
| 1 | $1,836 | $22,032 |
| 2 | $2,484 | $29,808 |
| 3 | $3,132 | $37,584 |
| 4 | $3,780 | $45,360 |
| 5 | $4,428 | $53,136 |
| 6 | $5,076 | $60,912 |
Each additional person adds approximately $648 per month to the household limit.
Children Under 21
Maine covers children at a much higher threshold. Children under age 21 qualify at up to 305% of the FPL, one of the more generous thresholds in the country.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|
| 1 | $3,706 | $44,472 |
| 2 | $5,013 | $60,156 |
| 3 | $6,319 | $75,828 |
| 4 | $7,625 | $91,500 |
| 5 | $8,931 | $107,172 |
Children in families above these limits may still qualify for CHIP coverage under the MaineCare program.
Pregnant Individuals
Pregnant individuals qualify at up to 214% of the FPL. Maine counts a pregnant person as a household of at least two for purposes of calculating the limit, which raises the threshold.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|
| 2 | approximately $2,847 |
| 3 | approximately $3,590 |
| 4 | approximately $4,333 |
Coverage under this category continues through 60 days postpartum, and Maine has extended that period further under a federal option, providing 12 months of postpartum coverage.
Elderly and Disabled Adults (ABD Medicaid)
Adults who are 65 or older, blind, or have a qualifying disability may qualify through the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) Medicaid category. The income limit is approximately 100% of the FPL.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|
| 1 | approximately $1,304 |
| 2 | approximately $1,763 |
This category also has an asset limit of $10,000 for a single applicant and $15,000 for a couple.
Nursing Home and Long-Term Care Medicaid
For people who need nursing home care or home and community-based services, a separate set of rules applies.
| Coverage Type | Monthly Income Limit | Asset Limit |
|---|
| Nursing Home Medicaid | $2,982 | $10,000 (individual) |
| HCBS Waiver | $2,982 | $10,000 (individual) |
| Spousal asset allowance | N/A | up to $162,660 |
The non-applicant spouse of a nursing home applicant may keep a minimum monthly income allowance of approximately $2,644 per month.
Medically Needy (Spend-Down)
Maine offers a spend-down option for people who exceed the standard income limits but have significant medical expenses. The protected income level, sometimes called the medically needy income limit (MNIL), is:
- $315 per month for an individual
- $341 per month for a couple
If your income exceeds the standard MaineCare limit, you subtract your medical costs until you reach the protected income level, and then MaineCare covers the rest.
Asset Rules
Most MaineCare categories for adults under 65 have no asset test. You can have money in savings or own a car without it counting against your eligibility. The asset test applies mainly to long-term care and ABD Medicaid:
- Single applicant (LTC or ABD): $10,000 asset limit
- Married couple (both applying): $15,000 combined
- Non-applicant spouse protection: up to $162,660
Exempt assets include your primary home (if a spouse or dependent lives there), one vehicle, personal belongings, and prepaid burial contracts up to approximately $18,432. The home equity limit is $1,130,000 in 2026.
Who Qualifies for MaineCare?
Beyond the income test, you must meet a few other requirements:
- Be a Maine resident
- Be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant (some categories have different immigration rules)
- Meet the category-specific requirements (age, disability, pregnancy, etc.)
- Provide a Social Security number or proof of exemption
Maine does not have a waiting period for MaineCare for most categories. If you meet the income and residency requirements, you can apply and receive coverage.
How to Apply for MaineCare in 2026
Step 1: Gather Documents
Collect the documents you'll need before you start your application:
- Proof of identity (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Proof of Maine residency (utility bill, lease, or mail)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, award letters for benefits)
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Proof of immigration status if applicable
- Health insurance information if you currently have any
Step 2: Choose How to Apply
Maine offers four ways to apply:
Online: The fastest method is through My Maine Connection at mymaineconnection.gov. You can create an account and submit your full application digitally.
By phone: Call OFI at 1-855-797-4357 Monday through Friday during business hours. A representative can walk you through the application.
By mail or fax: Download the application from the Maine DHHS website, fill it out, and mail or fax it to your regional district office.
In person: Bring your documents to a local OFI district office. Staff can assist you with the application.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
After submission, OFI has up to 45 days to process your application for most categories. Disability-based Medicaid may take up to 90 days.
Step 4: Receive a Decision
OFI will send a written notice with the decision. If approved, coverage may be backdated up to three months if you had eligible medical expenses during that period.
Step 5: If Denied, Appeal
If your application is denied, you have the right to request a fair hearing within 90 days of the denial notice. Call OFI or visit your local district office to start an appeal.
Maine Medicaid vs. ACA Marketplace Coverage
If your income is too high for MaineCare but still within a certain range, you may qualify for subsidized coverage through the ACA Marketplace (CoverME.gov in Maine).
| Program | Income Range | Monthly Premium |
|---|
| MaineCare (adults) | Up to 138% FPL | $0 |
| ACA with subsidies | 138% to 400%+ FPL | Varies, often $0 to low |
| CoverME.gov (state marketplace) | Any income | Varies |
Maine has its own state-based marketplace called CoverME.gov. If you earn between 138% and 400% of the FPL, you likely qualify for premium tax credits that lower your monthly insurance costs significantly.
Use the Benefits Navigator screener to check both MaineCare and Marketplace eligibility based on your exact income and household size.
Special Situations
Recent Job Loss
If you recently lost employer coverage, you may qualify for MaineCare immediately if your income dropped below the threshold. You do not need to wait for an open enrollment period.
Medicare and Medicaid (Dual Eligibility)
Some Maine residents qualify for both Medicare and MaineCare. Called "dual eligible," these individuals have Medicare pay first and MaineCare cover certain costs Medicare doesn't, including some premiums, copayments, and services. If you receive Medicare and have limited income, check whether you also qualify for a Medicare Savings Program through MaineCare.
Foster Youth
Young adults who were in foster care in Maine at age 18 may qualify for MaineCare until age 26, regardless of income.
Keeping Your Coverage
Once enrolled, you must renew your MaineCare coverage each year. Maine will send renewal notices by mail. You can also update your information online at mymaineconnection.gov. Report changes in income, household size, address, or other qualifying factors within 10 days to avoid any disruption to your coverage.
Check Your Eligibility
The income limits above are for the most common MaineCare categories. Some program types have different rules, and eligibility can also depend on factors beyond income. The best way to know for certain is to run a free screening.
Use the Benefits Navigator screener to check your eligibility for MaineCare and other Maine programs based on your specific situation. You can also visit the Maine state benefits page for a full overview of programs available to Maine residents.
For questions about your application or coverage, contact the Maine DHHS Office for Family Independence at 1-855-797-4357, or reach Consumers for Affordable Health Care (a free consumer assistance program) at 1-800-965-7476.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for MaineCare in 2026 for a single adult?
A single adult between ages 19 and 64 can qualify for MaineCare with a monthly income up to approximately $1,836 (138% of the FPL) in 2026. This is based on the updated Federal Poverty Level figures released in January 2026.
Does Maine have a Medicaid asset limit?
Most MaineCare categories for adults under 65 do not have an asset test. You can have savings or own property without it affecting eligibility. The asset limit only applies to long-term care Medicaid and ABD Medicaid, where the limit is $10,000 for a single applicant.
Can I get MaineCare if I work full time?
Yes. If your gross income is below 138% of the FPL, you can qualify for MaineCare even if you work full time. For a single person, that means earning less than roughly $1,836 per month or about $22,032 per year.
How long does it take to get approved for MaineCare?
OFI has up to 45 days to process most MaineCare applications after you submit them. If you apply for disability-based Medicaid, the timeline may be up to 90 days.
What if my income is too high for MaineCare?
If your income is above 138% of the FPL, you do not qualify for the standard adult MaineCare category. However, you may qualify for subsidized coverage through CoverME.gov, Maine's ACA Marketplace. Many people in this income range pay very little or nothing for Marketplace plans with tax credits. Use our screener to see your options.
Does Maine cover dental through MaineCare?
Yes. MaineCare covers dental services for both children and adults. Adult dental coverage was expanded in recent years and now includes preventive care, basic restorative services, and some major services.
Can immigrants get MaineCare in Maine?
Qualified immigrants, including lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and certain other categories, can access MaineCare. Undocumented immigrants generally do not qualify for standard MaineCare, though emergency Medicaid covers immediate life-threatening conditions. Pregnant individuals may qualify under separate rules depending on immigration status.
How do I renew my MaineCare coverage?
MaineCare renews annually. Maine will send you a renewal packet by mail. You can also renew online at mymaineconnection.gov. Make sure your mailing address is current so you receive the notice. If you miss the renewal window, your coverage may lapse, but you can reapply at any time.
