Minnesota Medicaid is officially called Medical Assistance (MA). It provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible residents through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). The program covers about 1.3 million Minnesotans and uses Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) to determine eligibility for most groups. If your income falls within the limits below, you may qualify for no-cost coverage starting any day of the year, since Medical Assistance has no open enrollment period.
What Is Medical Assistance?
Medical Assistance is Minnesota's version of the federal Medicaid program. It covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health services, dental care, vision care, and long-term care services. Unlike marketplace plans, there are no monthly premiums for most MA enrollees, and cost-sharing is minimal or zero.
Minnesota has expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, so working-age adults without children can qualify, not just families and people with disabilities.
Minnesota Medicaid Income Limits 2026
Income limits vary depending on your age, family situation, and health status. The table below shows the primary income thresholds for the 2025-2026 benefit period.
Medical Assistance for Adults (Ages 19-64)
Adults qualify at 133% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), which with a 5% income disregard effectively functions as 138% FPL.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|
| 1 person | $1,734 | $20,814 |
| 2 people | $2,344 | $28,129 |
| 3 people | $2,953 | $35,444 |
| 4 people | $3,563 | $42,759 |
| 5 people | $4,172 | $50,074 |
| Each additional person | +$610 | +$7,315 |
Medical Assistance for Children (Ages 0-18)
Children qualify at higher income levels than adults. Children in households with income up to approximately 252% FPL may qualify for Medical Assistance, and children in households up to 275% FPL may qualify depending on age group.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit (approx.) | Annual Income Limit (approx.) |
|---|
| 1 person | $3,063 | $36,755 |
| 2 people | $4,147 | $49,759 |
| 3 people | $5,232 | $62,784 |
| 4 people | $6,316 | $75,790 |
These figures represent approximately 252% FPL. Some age groups qualify up to 275% FPL. Use the MNsure application for an exact determination based on your child's age.
Medical Assistance for Pregnant Women
Pregnant women qualify at income limits higher than standard adult thresholds, with coverage typically extending through 60 days postpartum. Minnesota provides particularly generous coverage for pregnant individuals, with eligibility typically around 278% FPL.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit (approx.) |
|---|
| 1 person | $3,611 |
| 2 people | $4,883 |
| 3 people | $6,155 |
| 4 people | $7,427 |
Medical Assistance for Seniors and People with Disabilities (Age 65+ or Blind/Disabled)
Seniors and people with disabilities who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are automatically eligible for Medical Assistance. For those who do not receive SSI, income limits are lower than the MAGI-based limits above.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|
| Single individual | $1,305 |
| Married couple | $1,764 |
These limits apply for the period July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. Asset limits also apply for this group. A single applicant may have up to $3,000 in countable assets; a married couple may have up to $6,000.
Long-Term Care (Nursing Home) Medical Assistance
For those needing nursing home care or home and community-based waiver services, different income standards apply.
| Living Situation | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|
| Nursing home (single) | $1,305 |
| Nursing home (married couple) | $1,764 |
| HCBS Waivers (single) | $2,982 |
| HCBS Waivers (married couple) | $5,964 |
Married couples where only one spouse needs nursing home care have additional protections. The non-applicant spouse can keep between $2,645 and $4,066.50 per month in income (the Minimum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance).
MinnesotaCare: Coverage for Those Who Earn Too Much for Medical Assistance
If your income is above the Medical Assistance limit but you still cannot afford private insurance, MinnesotaCare may cover you. MinnesotaCare is a state-subsidized program for adults up to 200% FPL and children up to 400% FPL. Small premiums apply on a sliding scale, but are $0 for those under 160% FPL.
| Household Size | MinnesotaCare Annual Income Limit |
|---|
| 1 person | $31,300 |
| 2 people | $42,300 |
| 3 people | $53,300 |
| 4 people | $64,300 |
| Each additional person | +$11,000 |
What Counts as Income?
Medical Assistance uses MAGI, which is generally your adjusted gross income from your federal tax return plus a few additions. The following count as income:
- Wages, salaries, and tips
- Self-employment income
- Unemployment benefits
- Social Security benefits (for most MA categories)
- Alimony received
- Rental income
The following do not count as income:
- Child support received
- Gifts
- One-time lump-sum payments (usually)
- Workers' compensation
- Veteran's disability payments
If your gross income is close to the limit, it is worth applying anyway. Deductions and allowances can bring your MAGI below the threshold even when your gross income appears to be too high.
How to Apply for Minnesota Medical Assistance
Medical Assistance accepts applications year-round. There is no deadline, and coverage can begin as soon as the day you apply if you are found eligible.
Step 1: Gather your documents
Before starting your application, collect the following:
- Social Security numbers for all household members applying for coverage
- Proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax return, or employer letter)
- Immigration documents if you or a family member is not a U.S. citizen
- Proof of Minnesota residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or similar)
- Information about any health insurance you currently have
Step 2: Apply through MNsure
The fastest way to apply is online at MNsure.org. The online application takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Select the application "with financial help" to be screened for Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare, and premium tax credits in one step.
Alternatively, you can:
- Call MNsure at 651-539-2099 or 1-855-366-7873
- Apply in person at your county human services office
- Submit a paper application (note: paper applications can take up to 45 days to process)
Step 3: Complete the eligibility determination
After submitting, MNsure will review your application. For most online applications, the determination is instant or takes just a few days. If the system cannot verify your information automatically, you may be asked to submit additional documents.
Step 4: Enroll and choose a health plan
If approved for Medical Assistance, you will be enrolled in a managed care health plan. Minnesota offers several plans depending on your county. You can choose your plan or be auto-assigned if you do not make a selection within the enrollment period.
Step 5: Use your coverage
Coverage typically begins on the first day of the month following approval, though in some cases it can be backdated. You will receive a member ID card from your health plan. Bring this card to all medical appointments.
Free Help Applying
MNsure has a statewide network of navigators, certified application counselors, and brokers who can help you apply for free. These are trained individuals who can walk you through the application, help gather documents, and answer questions about coverage options. To find help near you, visit MNsure.org or call the MNsure help line.
County human services offices also assist with Medical Assistance applications at no charge.
Changes That Affect Your Eligibility
You must report certain changes to your county within 10 days. These include:
- Changes in household income
- A new job or job loss
- Changes in household size (new baby, someone moving in or out)
- Moving to a different county or state
- Gaining or losing other health insurance
Failing to report changes can result in repayment of benefits or loss of coverage.
Renewal
Medical Assistance eligibility is renewed once per year. Minnesota will send you a renewal notice before your coverage expires. Many renewals happen automatically through data matches with other government systems. If you need to actively renew, you can do so online through your MNsure account, by mail, or by phone.
If you receive a renewal form, return it promptly to avoid a gap in coverage.
Use the Free Screener to Check Your Eligibility
Not sure whether you qualify? The Benefits Navigator screener checks eligibility for Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare, SNAP, and other programs in a few minutes. It is free and does not require you to create an account.
Check if you qualify now at the Benefits Navigator screener
You can also explore all Minnesota programs at the Minnesota benefits overview page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for Minnesota Medicaid for a single adult in 2026?
A single adult between ages 19 and 64 can earn up to $1,734 per month, or $20,814 per year, to qualify for Medical Assistance. This represents 133% of the Federal Poverty Level with a 5% income disregard applied.
Can I get Minnesota Medicaid if I am working?
Yes. Medical Assistance is available to working adults who meet the income limits. Your employment income counts toward the limit, but the threshold is set high enough that many working Minnesotans qualify, especially in lower-wage jobs or part-time work.
Does Minnesota Medicaid cover dental care?
Yes. Minnesota Medical Assistance covers dental services including exams, cleanings, fillings, extractions, and in some cases dentures. Coverage details vary by the managed care plan you are enrolled in.
Is there an asset limit for Minnesota Medicaid?
For most working-age adults (ages 19 to 64), there is no asset test. You can have a savings account, a car, or a home and still qualify based on income alone. Asset limits do apply for seniors, people with disabilities on SSI-related coverage, and long-term care Medicaid.
How long does it take to get approved for Minnesota Medicaid?
Online applications are usually processed within a few days. If the state can verify your income and citizenship electronically, you may receive an instant determination. Paper applications take up to 45 days.
What if my income is slightly above the Medicaid limit?
If your income is above the Medical Assistance limit, you may qualify for MinnesotaCare, which covers adults up to approximately 200% FPL. If your income is above MinnesotaCare limits, you may qualify for subsidized marketplace coverage through MNsure with premium tax credits reducing your monthly cost.
Can immigrants qualify for Minnesota Medical Assistance?
Minnesota has extended Medical Assistance eligibility to certain immigrants who do not qualify for federally funded Medicaid. This includes some lawfully present immigrants and, through state funds, some individuals regardless of immigration status. Contact MNsure or a navigator to understand how your specific situation affects eligibility.
Does Medical Assistance cover mental health services?
Yes. Medical Assistance covers a wide range of mental health services including therapy, psychiatric evaluations, and medication. Minnesota has invested in behavioral health coverage under Medicaid, and services are available through your managed care plan.
Can I have both Medicare and Medical Assistance?
Yes. People who qualify for both programs are called "dual eligible." Medical Assistance can cover Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copayments for those who qualify. This significantly reduces out-of-pocket costs for seniors and people with disabilities.
How do I find out which health plan I am enrolled in?
After being approved for Medical Assistance, you will receive information about your managed care plan from Minnesota DHS. You can also check your plan through your MNsure account or by calling DHS Member Services at 1-800-657-3739.
