Oregon OHP Bridge fills a gap that previously left tens of thousands of Oregonians uninsured. If your income is too high for standard OHP Plus (Oregon's Medicaid program) but not high enough to afford private insurance comfortably, OHP Bridge was designed specifically for you. It covers adults aged 19 to 64 with income between 138% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), with zero premiums, zero copays, and zero deductibles.
This guide explains exactly who qualifies, what the 2026 dollar amounts look like by household size, what the program covers, and how to apply.
What Is OHP Bridge?
OHP Bridge launched on July 1, 2024, as Oregon's Basic Health Program (BHP). It sits between standard OHP Plus Medicaid (which covers adults up to 138% FPL) and the ACA Marketplace (which starts at 100% FPL with premium tax credits). Before OHP Bridge existed, adults in the 138% to 200% FPL range often faced premium costs on the Marketplace that remained unaffordable even with subsidies.
The program is funded through a combination of federal dollars (the same per-member payments that would have gone to Marketplace subsidies) and state funds. That funding structure allows Oregon to offer OHP Bridge with no cost-sharing whatsoever.
OHP Bridge is projected to eventually serve approximately 100,000 Oregonians, including those who previously had OHP Plus and were moved over when the program launched.
2026 OHP Bridge Income Limits (138% to 200% FPL)
The table below shows the income range that qualifies for OHP Bridge in 2026. Your income must fall above the OHP Plus threshold (138% FPL) and at or below 200% FPL.
| Household Size | Min Annual Income (138% FPL) | Max Annual Income (200% FPL) |
|---|
| 1 | $21,228 | $31,920 |
| 2 | $28,788 | $43,280 |
| 3 | $36,336 | $54,640 |
| 4 | $43,896 | $66,000 |
| 5 | $51,456 | $77,360 |
| 6 | $59,004 | $88,720 |
| 7 | $66,564 | $100,080 |
| 8 | $74,112 | $111,440 |
For households larger than 8 people, add approximately $5,500 per additional person to the 200% FPL figure.
These limits are based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) rules. They reflect the 2025 federal poverty guidelines used for 2026 program determinations (per Oregon's Permanent Administrative Order DMAP 7-2026, effective March 1, 2026).
How the 138% FPL Floor Works
Standard OHP Plus covers adults at or below 133% FPL. However, federal Medicaid rules allow a 5% income disregard, which effectively raises that floor to 138% FPL. If your income lands exactly at 138% FPL or below, you qualify for OHP Plus, not OHP Bridge. OHP Bridge picks up immediately above that line.
For a single adult, the dividing line between OHP Plus and OHP Bridge is roughly $1,769 per month (138% FPL monthly). If you earn $1,770 per month and are otherwise eligible, you move into OHP Bridge territory.
OHP Plus Income Limits for Reference
It helps to understand the full OHP picture. Here are the 2026 monthly income limits for OHP Plus for adults aged 19 to 64:
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit (138% FPL) |
|---|
| 1 | $1,836 |
| 2 | $2,489 |
| 3 | $3,142 |
| 4 | $3,795 |
| 5 | $4,449 |
| 6 | $5,102 |
| 7 | $5,755 |
| 8 | $6,408 |
If you fall at or below these monthly figures, you likely qualify for OHP Plus. If you're above them but still under 200% FPL, OHP Bridge is your program.
Who Qualifies for OHP Bridge
To be eligible for OHP Bridge in 2026, you must meet all of the following:
Age: Between 19 and 64 years old. Individuals 65 and older are generally directed to Medicare.
Income: Annual income between 138% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. See the table above for specific dollar amounts.
Residency: You must live in Oregon.
Citizenship or Immigration Status: You must be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national, or have a qualifying immigration status. Qualifying statuses include:
- Lawfully present immigrants with a qualified non-citizen status (no waiting period applies for OHP Bridge)
- Individuals with humanitarian status, including Temporary Protected Status, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, asylum applicants, and victims of trafficking
- People with a valid non-immigrant visa such as a student or work visa
- DACA recipients
- Individuals with pending adjustment of status applications
No Access to Affordable Coverage: You must not have access to other affordable health insurance, such as employer-sponsored coverage that meets affordability standards.
OHP Bridge specifically does not have the same citizenship waiting periods that some other programs impose. Lawfully present immigrants can enroll without a waiting period.
What OHP Bridge Covers
OHP Bridge provides comprehensive coverage with no member cost-sharing. That means:
- No monthly premiums
- No copayments at appointments or for prescriptions
- No coinsurance
- No deductibles
Covered services include:
- Medical care (primary care, specialist visits, hospital services)
- Dental care (preventive and restorative)
- Behavioral health care (mental health treatment and substance use disorder services)
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Prescription drugs
- Health-related services and supports
What OHP Bridge does not cover:
- Long-term services and supports (nursing home care, in-home care for functional needs)
- Climate and housing-related benefits that are available under full OHP Plus
If you need long-term services and supports, you may need to qualify for standard OHP Plus or explore other programs.
How OHP Bridge Compares to OHP Plus and Marketplace Coverage
| Feature | OHP Plus | OHP Bridge | ACA Marketplace |
|---|
| Income Range | 0 to 138% FPL | 138% to 200% FPL | 100%+ FPL |
| Premiums | None | None | Varies (subsidized) |
| Copays | None | None | Varies |
| Dental | Yes | Yes | Optional/limited |
| Behavioral Health | Yes | Yes | Yes (varies) |
| Long-Term Supports | Yes | No | No |
For most adults in the 138% to 200% FPL range, OHP Bridge provides better value than a Marketplace plan. Marketplace plans at that income level typically still carry monthly premiums and cost-sharing even after subsidies, whereas OHP Bridge has neither.
How to Apply for OHP Bridge in 2026
Applying for OHP Bridge uses the same application process as other Oregon Health Plan programs.
Step 1: Gather your information.
You will need proof of identity, income documentation (pay stubs, tax returns, or a self-attestation form), your Social Security number if you have one, and immigration documents if applicable.
Step 2: Apply online.
Go to benefits.oregon.gov and create an account or log in. The online application through Oregon's ONE system is the fastest method. You can complete the entire application in one session.
Step 3: Apply by phone (alternative).
Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 1-800-699-9075. Representatives can walk you through the application over the phone. Lines can be busy, so morning calls tend to have shorter wait times.
Step 4: Apply in person or by mail.
Visit your local Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) office to apply in person or pick up a paper application. You can also download a paper application from benefits.oregon.gov.
Step 5: Review your eligibility determination.
Oregon will review your application and send a notice of eligibility. If approved, coverage typically starts the first of the month after approval. If you applied through HealthCare.gov and were found eligible for OHP Bridge, you may be automatically transitioned.
Step 6: Enroll in a coordinated care organization (CCO).
Once approved, you will be assigned to or allowed to choose a CCO, which coordinates your OHP Bridge care.
If you are currently enrolled in a Marketplace plan and your income drops into OHP Bridge range, you can switch at any point. Your Marketplace coverage will end and OHP Bridge will begin.
Income Calculation: What Counts
OHP Bridge uses MAGI (Modified Adjusted Gross Income) to determine eligibility. MAGI includes:
- Wages, salaries, and tips
- Self-employment income (net of business expenses)
- Social Security benefits that are taxable
- Unemployment compensation
- Alimony received (for divorces finalized before January 1, 2019)
- Rental income (net)
- Interest and dividends
MAGI does not count:
- Child support received
- Gifts
- Workers' compensation
- VA disability payments
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
If your income fluctuates month to month, you report your expected annual income. Oregon will verify income through data matches and may ask for documentation.
If Your Income Changes
OHP Bridge eligibility is reviewed at renewal (typically every 12 months). If your income drops below 138% FPL during the year, you should report the change and will likely transition to OHP Plus. If it rises above 200% FPL, you will transition to a Marketplace plan and may qualify for premium tax credits.
Oregon encourages members to report income changes promptly at benefits.oregon.gov or by calling 1-800-699-9075 to avoid coverage gaps.
Federal Changes and OHP Bridge in 2026
Oregon's OHP program, including OHP Bridge, has faced some uncertainty due to proposed federal Medicaid changes at the national level in 2025 and 2026. The state has pursued short-term funding solutions and works with carriers to maintain program stability. As of June 2026, OHP Bridge continues to operate and enroll new members.
If you want to stay current on any changes, the Oregon Health Authority posts updates at oregon.gov/oha/hsd/ohp.
Check Your Eligibility
Not sure whether you qualify for OHP Bridge, OHP Plus, or a Marketplace plan? Use the Benefits Navigator free eligibility screener to get an estimate in minutes based on your household size, income, and state. The screener checks multiple programs at once so you see all your options.
You can also visit the Oregon benefits overview page for a full list of Oregon assistance programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for OHP Bridge for a family of 4 in 2026?
For a household of 4, OHP Bridge covers annual income between $43,896 and $66,000. That range represents 138% to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Income below $43,896 for a family of 4 would qualify for OHP Plus instead.
Is OHP Bridge the same as OHP Plus?
No. OHP Plus is Oregon's standard Medicaid program, covering adults up to 138% FPL. OHP Bridge is a separate Basic Health Program covering adults between 138% and 200% FPL. Both have no premiums or copays, but OHP Bridge does not include long-term services and supports.
Do I have to be a U.S. citizen to qualify for OHP Bridge?
No. OHP Bridge accepts lawfully present immigrants without a waiting period. Qualifying statuses include people with non-immigrant visas, DACA recipients, individuals with pending adjustment of status, and those with humanitarian statuses such as Temporary Protected Status or asylum seeker status.
Can I have a job and still get OHP Bridge?
Yes. OHP Bridge is designed for working adults whose job does not provide affordable employer-sponsored coverage. Employment income counts toward the income calculation, but as long as your annual income stays between 138% and 200% FPL, you can remain enrolled.
What happens if my income goes above 200% FPL?
If your income exceeds 200% FPL, you will transition out of OHP Bridge. Oregon will typically move you to a Marketplace plan. At incomes between 100% and 400% of FPL, you may qualify for premium tax credits to help offset the cost. Report your income change at benefits.oregon.gov so coverage can be transitioned without a gap.
Does OHP Bridge cover dental care?
Yes. OHP Bridge covers dental care, which distinguishes it from many private insurance plans that treat dental as a separate, optional policy. Behavioral health services are also covered.
How long does OHP Bridge approval take?
Most online applications through benefits.oregon.gov are processed within a few business days to a few weeks. Oregon has streamlined the enrollment process since the program launched in 2024. If you need coverage faster, ask about presumptive eligibility when you apply.
Can children get OHP Bridge?
OHP Bridge covers adults aged 19 to 64. Children are covered through OHP Plus (Medicaid for children) or the Oregon CHIP program, which covers children in families with higher incomes, up to 305% FPL.
