Can I get Medicaid with a felony on my record?

Yes. Having a felony conviction does not disqualify you from Medicaid. There is no criminal background check involved in the Medicaid application. If you meet your state's income and residency requirements, you qualify. This includes people with drug felonies, violent felonies, and sex offenses.

I just got out of prison. How do I get Medicaid?

Apply as soon as possible after release. As of 2026, all states must suspend (not terminate) Medicaid during incarceration, so if you were enrolled before, your coverage should be reactivated quickly. If you were not previously enrolled, you can apply at HealthCare.gov, your state Medicaid office, or at a community health center. Many reentry programs and parole offices can also help you apply. In expansion states, most people recently released qualify based on income alone.

How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid?

States must make a decision within 45 days of receiving your application (90 days if applying based on disability). In practice, many states approve straightforward online applications within a few days or even the same day. If you have an urgent medical need, ask about presumptive eligibility, which provides temporary coverage while your full application is processed.

Does Medicaid cover dental care?

It depends on your state. As of 2025, 38 states plus DC offer enhanced dental benefits for adults under Medicaid, covering preventive care, fillings, crowns, dentures, and more. About a dozen states offer only limited or emergency-only dental coverage. Medicaid dental coverage for children is required in all states. Check with your state Medicaid program for specific dental benefits.

Does Medicaid cover mental health and substance use treatment?

Yes. All state Medicaid programs must cover mental health services and substance use disorder treatment. This includes outpatient therapy and counseling, psychiatric services and medication management, inpatient psychiatric care, substance use treatment programs (detox, outpatient, residential), and medications for opioid use disorder (methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone). Medicaid is the single largest payer for mental health services in the United States.

I have no income at all. Do I qualify for Medicaid?

In Medicaid expansion states (41 states plus DC), yes — having no income means you are well within the eligibility threshold. In non-expansion states, it is more complicated. Childless adults with no income may actually fall into the coverage gap and not qualify. However, you should still apply, as you may qualify under other categories (disability, pregnancy, or caretaker). A community health center can see you regardless of Medicaid status.

Can undocumented immigrants get Medicaid?

Undocumented immigrants generally cannot enroll in full Medicaid. However, emergency Medicaid covers emergency room treatment regardless of immigration status. Some states (like California, New York, Illinois, and Oregon) have expanded state-funded Medicaid to cover all income-eligible residents regardless of immigration status. Regardless of Medicaid eligibility, community health centers (FQHCs) serve everyone without asking about immigration status.

What is the coverage gap?

The coverage gap affects people in the 10 non-expansion states who earn too much for their state's Medicaid program but too little (under 100% FPL) to qualify for marketplace insurance subsidies. About 1.4 million Americans are stuck in this gap. If you are in the coverage gap, your best options are community health centers, free clinics, hospital charity care, and state or local programs.

How to Apply for Medicaid

Medicaid provides free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans, including many people with criminal records. Here is who qualifies and how to apply.

Last updated: 2026-03-25

Quick Answer

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides free or very low-cost health insurance to people with limited income. In the 41 states (plus DC) that have expanded Medicaid, most adults with income below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level qualify — that is about $21,597 per year for a single person or $44,367 for a family of four in 2026. In the 10 states that have not expanded Medicaid, eligibility is much more limited and varies by state.

Having a criminal record does not disqualify you from Medicaid. If you are recently released from incarceration, you should apply for Medicaid immediately — it can cover doctor visits, prescriptions, mental health care, substance use treatment, hospital stays, and more. As of January 1, 2026, all states must suspend (not terminate) your Medicaid during incarceration, making it easier to reactivate coverage upon release.

You can apply at HealthCare.gov, through your state Medicaid agency, or in person at a community health center or social services office. Many people get approved within days if they qualify.

Eligibility at a Glance

Income / Cost

In expansion states (41 states + DC): up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level — about $21,597/year for one person, $29,254/year for a couple, $44,367/year for a family of four (2026). In non-expansion states, limits are much lower and vary by state — some as low as 18% FPL.

Who Qualifies

--Low-income adults in Medicaid expansion states (income below 138% FPL)
--Pregnant women (typically up to 200% FPL or higher depending on state)
--Children and teens in low-income families (CHIP covers up to 300%+ FPL in many states)
--Parents and caretakers of dependent children (income limits vary by state)
--People with disabilities who meet income and disability criteria
--Seniors (65+) with limited income and assets
--People recently released from incarceration (no criminal record exclusion)
--Former foster care youth under age 26

Important Notes

--In the 10 non-expansion states (AL, FL, GA, KS, MS, SC, TN, TX, WI, WY), childless adults generally do not qualify unless they have a disability
--In non-expansion states, about 1.4 million people fall into a coverage gap — too much income for Medicaid, too little for marketplace subsidies
--Undocumented immigrants generally cannot enroll in full Medicaid, though emergency Medicaid covers emergency room visits regardless of status
--Some states have work requirements or other conditions (check your state's rules)
--Income is based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) — most assets are not counted

How to Get Started — Step by Step

1.
Check If You Qualify
Use your state's Medicaid website or HealthCare.gov to see if you may be eligible based on your income, household size, and state. In expansion states, single adults earning under about $21,597/year generally qualify. You can also call your state Medicaid office or dial 211 for help.
2.
Gather Basic Information
You will need: your Social Security number (or document number if applicable), proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, or a statement if you have no income), proof of residency (utility bill, mail, or a letter from someone you live with), and proof of citizenship or immigration status. If you do not have all documents, apply anyway — many states allow you to submit them later.
3.
Apply Online, By Phone, In Person, or By Mail
Apply at HealthCare.gov (which will route you to your state's system), your state's Medicaid website, by calling your state Medicaid agency, or in person at your local Department of Social Services, a community health center, or a hospital. Many community organizations and health centers have enrollment counselors who can help you apply for free.
4.
Wait for Your Determination
States must process your application within 45 days (90 days if you are applying based on a disability). Many states provide same-day or next-day approval for straightforward applications submitted online. You may receive a request for additional documents — respond promptly to avoid delays.
5.
Receive Your Medicaid Card and Start Using Coverage
Once approved, you will receive a Medicaid card by mail (or information about accessing a digital card). You can begin using your coverage immediately — many states make your coverage effective the date you applied or even retroactive to the beginning of the month. Find a Medicaid-accepting doctor through your state's provider directory or at a community health center.

What Does Medicaid Cover?

Medicaid provides comprehensive health coverage. While exact benefits vary by state, all state Medicaid programs must cover: inpatient and outpatient hospital care, doctor and clinic visits, lab tests and x-rays, home health services, nursing facility care, and preventive care (screenings, vaccines, checkups).

Most states also cover: prescription drugs, dental care (38 states plus DC offer enhanced adult dental benefits as of 2025), vision care and eyeglasses, mental health and counseling services, substance use disorder treatment, physical therapy and rehabilitation, transportation to medical appointments, and medical equipment (wheelchairs, oxygen, etc.).

Medicaid typically has no monthly premiums and very low copays — often $0 to $4 per service. There are no deductibles and no annual spending limits. For people at or below the poverty level, there are usually no cost-sharing requirements at all.

Medicaid Expansion States vs. Non-Expansion States

Under the Affordable Care Act, states can expand Medicaid to cover all adults with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. As of 2026, 41 states and DC have expanded Medicaid.

Expansion states include: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin (partial).

The 10 states that have NOT fully expanded Medicaid are: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. In these states, eligibility for childless adults is extremely limited — some states set income limits as low as 18% of the poverty level. About 1.4 million Americans fall into the resulting coverage gap, with 97% concentrated in Southern states. Texas alone accounts for about 42% of all people in the coverage gap.

Medicaid for People with Criminal Records

Having a criminal record — including felony convictions — does NOT disqualify you from Medicaid. There is no criminal background check as part of the Medicaid application process. If you meet the income and residency requirements, you qualify.

If you are currently incarcerated, federal law has historically prohibited Medicaid from paying for most health care (the "inmate exclusion"). However, major changes are underway:

Starting January 1, 2026, all states must suspend rather than terminate Medicaid enrollment during incarceration. This means your coverage stays on file and can be quickly reactivated upon release, rather than requiring a new application from scratch.

As of 2025-2026, CMS has approved 19 states for Section 1115 Reentry Waivers, which allow Medicaid to cover pre-release services in the 30 days before release, including medical screenings, behavioral health assessments, case management, and medication management. More states have applications pending.

For youth under 21 and former foster care youth under 26, Medicaid must cover medically necessary screenings, diagnostic services, and case management in the 30 days before release from juvenile facilities, starting January 1, 2025.

What If I Am in a Non-Expansion State?

If you live in one of the 10 non-expansion states and your income is very low but you do not qualify for Medicaid, here are your options:

Community Health Centers (FQHCs): These federally funded clinics serve everyone on a sliding fee scale, regardless of insurance. Find one at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.

Marketplace insurance with subsidies: If your income is between 100-400% of the Federal Poverty Level, you may qualify for subsidized insurance through HealthCare.gov. Enhanced subsidies are available through 2025.

Hospital charity care: Most nonprofit hospitals are required to provide financial assistance. Ask about charity care programs before paying any hospital bill.

Emergency Medicaid: Even in non-expansion states, emergency Medicaid covers emergency room treatment regardless of immigration status or regular Medicaid eligibility.

Free clinics: Volunteer-staffed clinics provide free care to uninsured patients. Find one through nafcclinics.org or by calling 211.

Medicaid vs. Medicare — What Is the Difference?

Medicaid and Medicare are often confused but they are different programs:

Medicaid is based on income. It covers low-income individuals and families regardless of age. It is run jointly by federal and state governments, so benefits vary by state. It usually has no premiums and minimal copays.

Medicare is based on age or disability. It covers people 65 and older and younger people with certain disabilities. It is a federal program with the same rules everywhere. It has premiums, deductibles, and copays.

You can qualify for both — this is called "dual eligibility." If you are 65+ with low income, or disabled with low income, you may qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. Medicaid can help pay your Medicare premiums and cover services Medicare does not (like long-term care and dental).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get Medicaid with a felony on my record?: Yes. Having a felony conviction does not disqualify you from Medicaid. There is no criminal background check involved in the Medicaid application. If you meet your state's income and residency requirements, you qualify. This includes people with drug felonies, violent felonies, and sex offenses.
I just got out of prison. How do I get Medicaid?: Apply as soon as possible after release. As of 2026, all states must suspend (not terminate) Medicaid during incarceration, so if you were enrolled before, your coverage should be reactivated quickly. If you were not previously enrolled, you can apply at HealthCare.gov, your state Medicaid office, or at a community health center. Many reentry programs and parole offices can also help you apply. In expansion states, most people recently released qualify based on income alone.
How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid?: States must make a decision within 45 days of receiving your application (90 days if applying based on disability). In practice, many states approve straightforward online applications within a few days or even the same day. If you have an urgent medical need, ask about presumptive eligibility, which provides temporary coverage while your full application is processed.
Does Medicaid cover dental care?: It depends on your state. As of 2025, 38 states plus DC offer enhanced dental benefits for adults under Medicaid, covering preventive care, fillings, crowns, dentures, and more. About a dozen states offer only limited or emergency-only dental coverage. Medicaid dental coverage for children is required in all states. Check with your state Medicaid program for specific dental benefits.
Does Medicaid cover mental health and substance use treatment?: Yes. All state Medicaid programs must cover mental health services and substance use disorder treatment. This includes outpatient therapy and counseling, psychiatric services and medication management, inpatient psychiatric care, substance use treatment programs (detox, outpatient, residential), and medications for opioid use disorder (methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone). Medicaid is the single largest payer for mental health services in the United States.
I have no income at all. Do I qualify for Medicaid?: In Medicaid expansion states (41 states plus DC), yes — having no income means you are well within the eligibility threshold. In non-expansion states, it is more complicated. Childless adults with no income may actually fall into the coverage gap and not qualify. However, you should still apply, as you may qualify under other categories (disability, pregnancy, or caretaker). A community health center can see you regardless of Medicaid status.
Can undocumented immigrants get Medicaid?: Undocumented immigrants generally cannot enroll in full Medicaid. However, emergency Medicaid covers emergency room treatment regardless of immigration status. Some states (like California, New York, Illinois, and Oregon) have expanded state-funded Medicaid to cover all income-eligible residents regardless of immigration status. Regardless of Medicaid eligibility, community health centers (FQHCs) serve everyone without asking about immigration status.
What is the coverage gap?: The coverage gap affects people in the 10 non-expansion states who earn too much for their state's Medicaid program but too little (under 100% FPL) to qualify for marketplace insurance subsidies. About 1.4 million Americans are stuck in this gap. If you are in the coverage gap, your best options are community health centers, free clinics, hospital charity care, and state or local programs.

Helpful Resources

HealthCare.gov — Apply for Medicaid
Apply for Medicaid and marketplace insurance — the system routes you to the right program based on your income and state
Medicaid.gov — State Contacts
Find your state Medicaid agency website, phone number, and application portal
KFF — Medicaid Expansion Map
Interactive map showing which states have expanded Medicaid and which have not
CMS — Medicaid Reentry Services
Information on Medicaid pre-release enrollment and reentry services for incarcerated individuals
HRSA — Find a Health Center
Find a community health center that can help you apply for Medicaid and provide care while you wait
211.org — Find Health Insurance Help
Call 211 or visit online for free help applying for Medicaid and other health insurance programs in your area

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Program availability, eligibility rules, and benefits may vary by state and change over time. Contact your local health center or call 211 for the most current information. For medical emergencies, call 911.