Medicaid
Who qualifies for Medicaid in 2026, the income limits by household size, long-term care rules, the 2027 work requirement, and a calculator.
Medicaid income eligibility calculator (2026)
Medicaid income limits for 2026
Medicaid is health coverage run by each state with federal funding, so the rules differ by state. In states that adopted the ACA expansion, adults 19 to 64 qualify with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level, measured by modified adjusted gross income (MAGI). The 2026 poverty guideline is $15,960 for one person plus $5,680 for each additional person:
| Household | 2026 poverty guideline | 138% limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,960 | $22,025 |
| 2 | $21,640 | $29,863 |
| 3 | $27,320 | $37,702 |
| 4 | $33,000 | $45,540 |
| 5 | $38,680 | $53,378 |
| 6 | $44,360 | $61,217 |
Children, pregnant people, older adults and people with disabilities have their own categories, often with higher income limits for children. In states without expansion, many low-income adults without children can't get Medicaid at all.
Older adults, disability and nursing home care
Eligibility based on age, blindness or disability often uses SSI-style rules, including an asset limit (commonly $2,000 for one person). For long-term care, Medicaid looks back 60 months for assets given away for less than fair value, which can delay coverage. Spouses of nursing home residents get protections so they aren't left without income and assets.
New rules from 2027
Under the 2025 budget law, expansion adults 19 to 64 will need to show 80 hours a month of work, school, job training or community service (or matching earnings), starting January 1, 2027, with exemptions for groups such as pregnant people, parents of young children, people who are medically frail and disabled veterans. Over the limit? See marketplace coverage on Form 1095-A.
Common questions
What is the Medicaid income limit for 2026?
In expansion states, 138% of the poverty line for adults 19-64: about $22,025 a year for one person.
Do Medicaid rules differ by state?
Yes, each state runs its own program within federal rules.
When do Medicaid work requirements start?
January 1, 2027, for expansion adults 19-64, with exemptions.
Sources
- Federal Register: 2026 HHS poverty guidelines
- Social Security Act 1917 (transfers of assets)
- Epstein Becker Green: CMS rule on Medicaid work requirements
More paycheck and tax calculators: Married Filing Separately · Medical Savings Account (Archer MSA) · Personal Property Tax
Related
General information, not financial, tax or legal advice. Check important numbers with the official source before acting on them.