12 Best Health Coverage Programs for Low Income

🩺📞

HHS • CMS • SSA • HRSA • VA — Verified March 2026

Every major federal and nonprofit health coverage program available right now — verified income limits, plain-language descriptions, and the exact phone numbers, websites, and addresses you need to take action today. Free to use. Always in your corner.

💡 10 Things Every Low-Income American Should Know Before Choosing Health Coverage

Finding health coverage on a limited income is possible — but it requires knowing which door to knock on first. The United States operates more than a dozen overlapping programs serving different populations: Medicaid for low-income households, Medicare Savings Programs for seniors on Medicare, CHIP for children, community health centers for anyone regardless of insurance, VA health care for veterans, and more. The 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines updated by HHS on January 15, 2026 set the income thresholds that determine eligibility for most of these programs. Knowing those numbers — and having the right phone numbers at hand — is the difference between being uninsured and being covered. Here is what every low-income American needs to know first.

1
What is the single most important phone number for low-income health coverage? 1-800-318-2596 — the ACA Marketplace Helpline, available 24/7, connects you to Medicaid, CHIP, or Marketplace enrollment in every state.
One call to 1-800-318-2596 can screen you for Medicaid, CHIP, and ACA Marketplace plan eligibility simultaneously. Trained counselors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in more than 150 languages at no cost. This is the first call anyone without health coverage should make. TTY users call 1-855-889-4325.
2
Which program covers the most people and is the hardest to explain? Medicaid covers over 90 million Americans and has dramatically different rules in every state — income limits, covered services, and asset tests all vary. Always apply even if you think you do not qualify.
Medicaid is the largest single health coverage program in the United States. In the 40 states plus D.C. that expanded Medicaid under the ACA, adults earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level ($22,025/year for one person in 2026) qualify for comprehensive free coverage. In the 10 non-expansion states, eligibility is much narrower. Apply at HealthCare.gov or your state Medicaid office — free, any time of year.
3
Is there a program that pays my Medicare costs if my income is low? Yes — the Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) can eliminate or dramatically reduce Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copays for qualifying seniors. Fewer than half of eligible seniors are enrolled.
The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program pays all Medicare Part A and B premiums, deductibles, and copays for individuals earning up to $1,350/month. The SLMB and QI programs pay the $202.90 monthly Part B premium for those with slightly higher incomes. All three programs automatically qualify you for Extra Help on prescriptions. Apply at your state Medicaid office or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
4
Can I get health care if I have absolutely no insurance and no money? Yes — Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are legally required to see you regardless of your ability to pay, charging on a sliding-fee scale based on income. Visits can cost zero dollars at 100% FPL or below.
More than 1,400 HRSA-funded health center organizations operate over 15,000 sites nationwide. They provide primary care, dental, behavioral health, and prescription services using a sliding-fee schedule based on income and family size. No insurance is needed, and no one can be turned away. Find your nearest at FindAHealthCenter.hrsa.gov or call 1-800-221-2393.
5
What helps most with prescription drug costs if I am on Medicare? Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) caps Medicare Part D drug copays at $5.10 for generics and $12.65 for brand-name drugs in 2026 — an annual value estimated by SSA at $5,700.
Extra Help is available to Medicare enrollees with incomes up to 150% FPL (about $23,940/year for one person) and resources up to $16,590 (individual). Apply online at ssa.gov/extrahelp or call (800) 772-1213. If you are enrolled in any Medicare Savings Program, you are automatically enrolled in Extra Help at no additional cost.
6
My child has no health insurance. Is there free coverage available? CHIP covers children up to age 19 in families that earn too much for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance — income limits typically range from 200% to 400% FPL depending on the state. Apply any time of year.
The Children’s Health Insurance Program is a year-round enrollment program with no open enrollment window. It covers doctor visits, dental care, prescriptions, eye care, glasses, hospital care, and immunizations, often at zero or minimal cost. Apply at HealthCare.gov or InsureKidsNow.gov, or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669).
7
What if I served in the military — is there separate free health care for veterans? Yes — VA Health Care is available to eligible veterans, with free or reduced-cost care based on income, service-connected conditions, and priority group assignment. Over 9 million veterans are enrolled.
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is America’s largest integrated health care system, operating 170 medical centers and more than 1,074 outpatient sites. Low-income veterans may qualify for free health care based on income alone. Apply at VA.gov, call 1-877-222-8387 (1-877-222-VETS), or visit your nearest VA medical center. TTY: 1-800-829-4833.
8
Where do I get free help figuring out which programs I qualify for? BenefitsCheckUp.org (operated by NCOA) screens for more than 2,000 programs in minutes. SHIP counselors (1-877-839-2675) help Medicare beneficiaries for free. ACA Navigators at localhelp.healthcare.gov assist with Marketplace and Medicaid applications at no charge.
All three of these resources are 100% free, carry no sales pitch, and involve no enrollment obligation. SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) counselors are trained volunteers serving Medicare beneficiaries in every state. BenefitsCheckUp.org requires only a zip code and basic income information. Navigator and certified application counselor assistance at localhelp.healthcare.gov is available in person, by phone, or online.
9
Are there programs for people who fall in the coverage gap in non-Medicaid expansion states? Yes — FQHCs, free and charitable clinics (freeclinics.us), and Patient Assistance Programs through NeedyMeds.org and RxAssist.org provide care and medications free or nearly free regardless of insurance status or state.
The coverage gap affects millions in the 10 non-expansion states (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, Wyoming) who earn below 100% FPL but don’t qualify for Medicaid. Free clinics at freeclinics.us, FQHCs at FindAHealthCenter.hrsa.gov, and prescription help from NeedyMeds.org (1-800-503-6897) are the most accessible immediate resources.
10
What is the most common mistake people make when applying for low-income health coverage? Assuming they do not qualify without applying. Income limits are updated every January, and previous denials may no longer apply under the new 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines published by HHS.
The 2026 FPL was set at $15,960 for one person and $21,640 for two people — a 2.6% increase over 2025. Anyone who was previously denied Medicaid, Extra Help, or Medicare Savings Programs should reapply under the new limits. Additionally, life changes such as reduced income, a new household member, or a recent job loss all create new eligibility that warrants a fresh application. Never assume a past denial is permanent.

Sources: HHS.gov (2026 FPL $15,960 single / $21,640 couple; Jan 15 2026); HealthCare.gov (1-800-318-2596; 24/7; 150+ languages; TTY 1-855-889-4325); Medicaid.gov (90M+ enrollees; 138% FPL expansion; 10 non-expansion states); Medicare.gov MSP page (QMB $1,350/mo; Part B $202.90; drug copays $5.10/$12.65 2026); NCOA SHIP / MSP enrollment under 50%; SSA.gov Extra Help ($5,700 value; $16,590 resource limit; 150% FPL; 800-772-1213); HRSA.gov (1,400+ orgs; 15,000+ sites; 1-800-221-2393); HealthCare.gov CHIP (1-877-KIDS-NOW); VA.gov (170 medical centers; 1,074+ outpatient sites; 1-877-222-8387; 9M+ enrolled); NCOA BenefitsCheckUp.org; shiphelp.org (1-877-839-2675); NeedyMeds.org (1-800-503-6897); freeclinics.us

📞 12 Programs — With Full Contact Information

⚠️ Apply Directly — These Are Official Government and Nonprofit Resources

Every phone number, website, and address below connects directly to the administering government agency or nationally recognized nonprofit. There are no referral fees, no insurance salespeople, and no middlemen. All programs are free to apply for. Income limits are based on the 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines published by HHS on January 15, 2026, and may be updated annually. Always verify at the official source before applying.

Largest Program — Best for Lowest Incomes

Medicaid — Free Health Coverage for Low-Income Individuals

🏛️ Federal + State • Administered by State Medicaid Agencies • Apply Any Time

✅ Up to 138% FPL ($22,025/yr) in expansion states

✅ Monthly premium: $0 for most beneficiaries

✅ Covers doctor visits, hospital, Rx, dental

✅ No open enrollment — apply any month

✅ Dual eligible option (Medicare + Medicaid)

⚠️ 10 states have not expanded — check yours

📞 Contact & Apply

☎️Phone: 1-800-318-2596 (ACA Marketplace / Medicaid) — 24/7

☎️TTY: 1-855-889-4325

🌐Apply: HealthCare.gov • Medicaid.gov/about-us/contact-us

📍Local: Your state Medicaid office — find it at medicaid.gov/about-us/contact-us/index.html

🌐Free help: LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov — navigator in your area

Medicaid is the foundation of the American safety-net health system. Comprehensive coverage includes doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, dental, vision, and long-term care. Seniors 65+ may qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare simultaneously (“dual eligibility”), with Medicaid covering what Medicare does not pay — potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs to zero. Applications are processed within 45 days; Medicaid coverage can be retroactive up to 3 months in most states.

138% FPL Expansion States 10 Non-Expansion States No Monthly Premium Apply Any Time Dual Eligible Option

Best for Low-Income Medicare Enrollees

Medicare Savings Programs — QMB, SLMB, and QI

🏛️ State Medicaid Agencies • Federally Mandated • Annual Re-application for QI

✅ QMB: Up to $1,350/mo — pays ALL Medicare costs

✅ SLMB: Up to $1,616/mo — pays $202.90 Part B

✅ QI: Up to $1,816/mo — pays $202.90 Part B

✅ All three: Automatic Extra Help for drugs

✅ QMB: No provider can balance-bill you

✅ Annual value exceeds $7,000 (NCOA estimate)

📞 Contact & Apply

☎️Medicare: 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) — 24/7

☎️TTY: 1-877-486-2048

☎️SHIP: 1-877-839-2675 (free Medicare counselors) • shiphelp.org

🌐Apply: Your state Medicaid office

🌐Info: medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/medicare-savings-programs

🌐State offices: medicaid.gov/about-us/contact-us/index.html

MSPs are run by state Medicaid agencies, not Medicare itself. The QMB program is the most comprehensive: it eliminates every Medicare out-of-pocket cost and prohibits providers from billing QMB enrollees beyond the Medicare rate. SLMB and QI retroactive eligibility goes back 3 months, meaning you may receive refunds for Part B premiums already deducted from your Social Security check. All MSP enrollment automatically triggers Extra Help drug coverage. Fewer than half of eligible seniors are enrolled, per NCOA — if your income is below $1,816/month individually, apply immediately.

Eliminates Medicare Costs (QMB) $202.90/mo Part B Paid Auto Extra Help $7,000+ Annual Value No Balance Billing (QMB)

Best for Prescription Drug Costs on Medicare

Extra Help — Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy (LIS)

🏛️ Social Security Administration • Federal Program • Apply Any Day of the Year

✅ Income: Up to 150% FPL ($23,940/yr individual)

✅ Drug copays: $5.10 generic / $12.65 brand (2026)

✅ No Part D monthly premium on benchmark plans

✅ No Part D annual deductible

✅ Annual value: $5,700 (SSA estimate)

✅ Resource limit: $16,590 individual / $33,100 couple

📞 Contact & Apply

☎️SSA Phone: (800) 772-1213 — Mon–Fri 8 AM–7 PM

☎️TTY: (800) 325-0778

🌐Apply online: ssa.gov/extrahelp

📍In person: Your local Social Security office — ssa.gov/locator

ℹ️Note: Auto-enrolled if on Medicaid, SSI, or any Medicare Savings Program

Extra Help, expanded to 150% FPL by the Inflation Reduction Act, is permanently one of the most valuable programs for Medicare beneficiaries who take prescription drugs regularly. Applications are accepted 365 days a year including weekends. If you are auto-enrolled (Medicaid, SSI, or MSP), you receive a purple letter from Social Security confirming Extra Help; no application is needed. For those who must apply, the online form at ssa.gov/extrahelp takes about 20 minutes to complete.

$5.10 Generic Drugs 2026 $12.65 Brand-Name Drugs 150% FPL Threshold $5,700 Annual Value Apply Any Day

Best for Uninsured Children Under 19

CHIP — Children’s Health Insurance Program

🏛️ Federal + State • State Medicaid Agencies • No Open Enrollment Window

✅ Ages: Birth through 18

✅ Income: 200%–400% FPL depending on state

✅ Covers: Doctor, dental, vision, Rx, hospital

✅ Premium: $0 to very low depending on income

✅ Pregnant women covered in many states

✅ Funded through federal FY 2027

📞 Contact & Apply

☎️CHIP/Kids: 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669) — Mon–Fri 7 AM–7 PM CT

☎️Marketplace: 1-800-318-2596 — 24/7

🌐Apply: HealthCare.gov • InsureKidsNow.gov

🌐State info: medicaid.gov/chip/state-program-information/index.html

🌐Spanish: CuidadoDeSalud.gov

CHIP fills the gap between Medicaid income limits and private insurance affordability. A family of four can earn up to approximately $57,720/year (200% FPL) in most states and still qualify their children for CHIP. Some states extend CHIP-equivalent coverage to 400% FPL. There is no open enrollment window for CHIP — you can apply any time of year. Newborns born to Medicaid-enrolled mothers are automatically deemed Medicaid-eligible from birth.

Birth to Age 18 200%–400% FPL by State Dental + Vision Covered Apply Any Month

Best for Pre-Medicare Adults Without Job Coverage

ACA Health Insurance Marketplace & Premium Tax Credits

💻 HealthCare.gov • Federal & State Exchanges • Open Enrollment Nov 1–Jan 15

✅ Income: 100%–400% FPL for tax credits

⚠️ Enhanced subsidies expired Jan 1, 2026

✅ No denial for pre-existing conditions

✅ 4 plan tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum

✅ Cost-sharing reductions on Silver (100–250% FPL)

✅ Special Enrollment if life change occurs

📞 Contact & Apply

☎️Helpline: 1-800-318-2596 — 24/7, all languages

☎️TTY: 1-855-889-4325

🌐Apply: HealthCare.gov • CuidadoDeSalud.gov (Spanish)

🌐Free local help: LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov (Navigators near you)

🌐Subsidy calculator: kff.org/interactive/subsidy-calculator

The ACA Marketplace remains the primary path for adults who do not qualify for Medicaid and lack employer-based coverage. Important 2026 note: the enhanced premium tax credits expired December 31, 2025, causing average premiums for subsidized enrollees to roughly double. Basic tax credits (100%–400% FPL) still exist and can still significantly reduce premiums. If your income is below 138% FPL and you live in an expansion state, apply for Medicaid first. Use the KFF calculator to see your exact 2026 cost before enrolling.

No Pre-Condition Denial Enhanced Subsidies Expired 2026 Tax Credits 100–400% FPL Cost-Sharing Reductions

Best If Uninsured or in the Coverage Gap

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)

🏥 HRSA-Funded Community Health Centers • 15,000+ Locations Nationwide

✅ No insurance required to be seen

✅ Sliding-fee scale — $0 at 100% FPL or below

✅ Primary care, dental, behavioral health

✅ Pharmacy assistance on-site at many locations

✅ Open-door policy — legally required to see all

✅ 340B drug discounts available at FQHC pharmacies

📞 Contact & Find a Center

☎️Phone: 1-800-221-2393 (HRSA Health Center Finder)

🌐Find nearest: FindAHealthCenter.hrsa.gov (search by zip code)

🌐HRSA info: hrsa.gov/health-centers

ℹ️Note: No insurance, no proof of income, no citizenship required to be seen

FQHCs are federally mandated to accept every patient regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. They are required by law to operate a sliding-fee discount schedule calibrated to household income and family size. At 100% FPL or below, care is typically provided at zero cost. These centers also commonly help patients enroll in Medicaid, CHIP, and Marketplace plans through on-site certified enrollment assisters at no charge. With more than 15,000 service delivery sites, there is likely one near you.

No Insurance Needed Sliding-Fee Scale $0 at 100% FPL 15,000+ Locations Dental + Mental Health

Best for Eligible Veterans

VA Health Care — Veterans Health Administration

🇺🇸 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs • 170 Medical Centers • 1,074+ Outpatient Sites

✅ Free or low-cost for eligible veterans

✅ Low-income veterans: free based on income alone

✅ Prescriptions: $5–$11 per 30-day supply (generic)

✅ 50%+ service-connected disability: free prescriptions

✅ Comprehensive: primary, specialty, mental health

✅ Over 9 million veterans enrolled

📞 Contact & Enroll

☎️Phone: 1-877-222-VETS (1-877-222-8387) — Mon–Fri 8 AM–8 PM ET

☎️TTY: 1-800-829-4833

🌐Apply online: va.gov/health-care/apply/application

🌐Find a VA facility: va.gov/find-locations

🌐Eligibility info: va.gov/health-care/eligibility

The VHA is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Eligibility is based on military service, discharge status, service-connected conditions, and income. Veterans who do not have a service-connected disability may still qualify for free or reduced-cost health care based on income alone. Veterans are assigned to one of eight priority groups that determine cost-sharing levels. Low-income veterans in groups 5–8 pay minimal or no copays. Apply online in about 30 minutes at VA.gov.

Veterans Only Income-Based Eligibility $5–$11 Prescriptions Mental Health Included 170 Medical Centers

Best for Seniors Needing Long-Term or Home Care

Medicaid Long-Term Care — Nursing Home & HCBS Waivers

🏛️ State Medicaid Programs • For Adults 65+ or with Disability

✅ Nursing home income limit: up to $2,982/mo (2026)

✅ Asset limit: $2,000 most states (home exempt)

✅ Home & Community Based (HCBS) waiver option

✅ Spouse can retain up to $162,660 in assets

✅ Miller Trust available in income-cap states

⚠️ HCBS waivers may have waiting lists

📞 Contact & Apply

☎️Medicaid: 1-800-318-2596 — 24/7

🌐State Medicaid: medicaid.gov/about-us/contact-us/index.html

🌐HCBS Waivers: medicaid.gov/medicaid/long-term-services-supports

🌐Medicaid Planner: medicaidplanningassistance.org (find a certified planner)

Medicaid long-term care covers nursing home costs that routinely exceed $10,000/month. A senior with monthly income up to $2,982 may qualify for nursing home Medicaid in most states. Your primary home is an exempt asset and does not count against the $2,000 asset limit. HCBS Waivers allow Medicaid to pay for care at home or in assisted living, preserving independence. If your income slightly exceeds the limit, a Certified Medicaid Planner can guide legally permitted strategies to achieve eligibility.

Nursing Home Coverage $2,982/mo Income Limit Home Exempt Asset HCBS Home Care Option

Best Free Expert Help Navigating All Programs

Free Enrollment Help — SHIP, Navigators & BenefitsCheckUp

☎️ Federal + Nonprofit • 100% Free • No Sales • Available Nationwide

✅ SHIP: Free Medicare counseling in all 50 states

✅ BenefitsCheckUp.org: Screens 2,000+ programs

✅ ACA Navigators: Free Medicaid/Marketplace help

✅ Benefits.gov: Federal benefits screener

✅ Dial 2-1-1: Emergency referrals, 24/7

✅ Available in multiple languages

📞 Contact & Resources

☎️SHIP: 1-877-839-2675 • shiphelp.org — Free Medicare counselors

☎️Marketplace: 1-800-318-2596 • LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov

☎️Emergency: Dial 2-1-1 — 24/7 social services referral

🌐Benefits screen: BenefitsCheckUp.org (NCOA) • Benefits.gov

🌐Find a Navigator: LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov

Perhaps the most important resource of all is knowing that free, unbiased expert help exists. SHIP counselors are trained volunteers who help Medicare beneficiaries understand all their options at no cost, with no insurance sales involvement. BenefitsCheckUp.org from NCOA screens for more than 2,000 federal, state, and local benefit programs — including health coverage, prescription help, food, utilities, and housing — using only your zip code and basic income data. Results appear in minutes and are personalized to your situation.

100% Free — No Sales SHIP All 50 States BenefitsCheckUp 2,000+ In-Person Help Available

Best for Uninsured in Non-Expansion States

Free & Charitable Clinics + Patient Assistance Programs

🏥 Nonprofit Networks • No Insurance • No Income Test at Most Locations

✅ 1,200+ free clinics: physician & dental care

✅ NeedyMeds: 10,000+ free drug programs

✅ RxAssist: Manufacturer PAPs for brand drugs

✅ GoodRx: Up to 80%+ off generic drugs

✅ No income limit — no citizenship requirement

✅ 340B drug pricing at FQHC pharmacies

📞 Contact & Resources

☎️NeedyMeds: 1-800-503-6897 • NeedyMeds.org

🌐Free Clinics: freeclinics.us (directory of 1,200+ free clinics)

🌐Drug PAPs: RxAssist.org • NeedyMeds.org

🌐Drug coupons: GoodRx.com (no membership required)

🌐Partnership: pparx.org (Partnership for Prescription Assistance)

For the millions of Americans who fall into the coverage gap — especially in the 10 non-expansion states — free and charitable clinics provide physician care, dental, and mental health services entirely through volunteer medical professionals at no cost. NeedyMeds connects patients to manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs that supply brand-name medications at zero or near-zero cost to low-income patients who do not have insurance coverage for those drugs. GoodRx requires no membership, income test, or insurance and can reduce generic drug costs by 80% or more at most retail pharmacies.

No Insurance Needed Free Drug Programs 1,200+ Free Clinics GoodRx No Membership

Best for American Indians and Alaska Natives

Indian Health Service (IHS) — Comprehensive Tribal Health Care

🇺🇸 U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services • 35 States • Primary Care at No Cost

✅ Eligible: Members of federally recognized tribes

✅ Primary care provided at no cost to patients

✅ Available in 35 states on/near reservations

✅ Also serves Alaska Natives statewide

✅ AI/AN veterans: VA-IHS reimbursement agreement

⚠️ Limited specialty care; urban services vary

📞 Contact & Information

🌐Main site: ihs.gov

🌐Find a facility: ihs.gov/locations

🌐Urban programs: ihs.gov/urban

🌐VA-IHS veterans: ihs.gov/vaihsmou • [email protected]

ℹ️Note: Eligibility based on tribal membership enrollment

The Indian Health Service has provided federal health services to American Indians and Alaska Natives since 1955, rooted in the government-to-government relationship between the federal government and federally recognized tribes. IHS facilities are present in 35 states, predominantly on or near rural reservations, and focus on primary health care at no cost to tribal members. American Indian and Alaska Native veterans can access care at IHS facilities that have reimbursement agreements with VA, combining benefits from both systems.

Federally Recognized Tribes 35 States No-Cost Primary Care VA-IHS Partnership

Best for Pregnant Women and New Mothers

Medicaid & CHIP for Pregnant Women — All 50 States

🏛️ State Medicaid Programs • No Waiting Period • 12-Month Postpartum Coverage

✅ Income: Up to 185%–300%+ FPL (varies by state)

✅ Prenatal care: All routine visits covered

✅ Labor, delivery, and hospital stay covered

✅ Postpartum: 12 months of coverage after birth

✅ Newborns: Automatically deemed Medicaid-eligible

✅ No waiting period — apply any time during pregnancy

📞 Contact & Apply

☎️Helpline: 1-800-318-2596 — 24/7

🌐Apply: HealthCare.gov • Your state Medicaid office

🌐Maternal info: medicaid.gov/medicaid/benefits/maternal-and-infant-health

🌐CHIP pregnancy: InsureKidsNow.gov • 1-877-543-7669

Every state must cover pregnant women under Medicaid up to at least 185% FPL, and many states go higher. Postpartum coverage was permanently extended to 12 months following the American Rescue Plan Act, ensuring new mothers continue receiving health coverage through the critical year after birth. Newborns are automatically deemed Medicaid-eligible at birth if the mother is covered — no separate newborn application is required. There is no open enrollment window and no waiting period for pregnancy-related Medicaid; apply immediately upon learning of a pregnancy for the fastest path to coverage.

Pregnant Women All States 12-Month Postpartum Newborn Auto-Enrolled No Waiting Period 185%+ FPL Minimum

Sources: HealthCare.gov (1-800-318-2596; 24/7; 150 languages; TTY 1-855-889-4325; LocalHelp; CuidadoDeSalud.gov); HHS.gov programs overview; Medicaid.gov (138% FPL; 10 non-expansion states; $2,982 LTC limit; pregnant women 185%+; postpartum 12 mo; HCBS waivers; CHIP state info); Medicare.gov MSP page (QMB $1,350/$1,824; SLMB $1,616/$2,184; QI $1,816/$2,455; Part B $202.90 2026; drug copays $5.10/$12.65 2026; 1-800-633-4227); NCOA.org MSPs ($7,000+ value; under 50% enrolled; 1-877-839-2675); SSA.gov Extra Help (ssa.gov/extrahelp; 800-772-1213; $5,700 value; 150% FPL; $16,590 resource limit); HRSA.gov FQHCs (FindAHealthCenter.hrsa.gov; 1-800-221-2393; 1,400+ orgs; 15,000+ sites; sliding-fee law); Congress.gov CRS FQHC overview (1,200+ free clinics; 340B drug pricing); VA.gov (1-877-222-8387; va.gov/health-care; 170 medical centers; 1,074+ outpatient sites; 9M+ enrolled; $5-$11 prescriptions; TTY 1-800-829-4833); IHS.gov (ihs.gov; tribal membership; 35 states; VA-IHS MOU); HealthCare.gov CHIP (1-877-KIDS-NOW; InsureKidsNow.gov; 200-400% FPL; HEALTHY KIDS Act FY2027); NeedyMeds.org (1-800-503-6897; 10,000+ programs); freeclinics.us (1,200+ clinics); RxAssist.org; shiphelp.org (1-877-839-2675); NCOA BenefitsCheckUp.org (2,000+ programs); medicaidplanningassistance.org 2026 (CSRA $162,660; Miller Trust)

📋 Quick-Reference Contact Directory — All 12 Programs

Save or print this table. Every number is a direct government or nationally recognized nonprofit line — no insurance salespeople, no referral fees.

Program	Primary Phone	Website	Cost to Apply
Medicaid	1-800-318-2596	HealthCare.gov	Free
Medicare Savings (QMB/SLMB/QI)	1-800-633-4227	Medicare.gov	Free
Extra Help / Part D LIS	800-772-1213	ssa.gov/extrahelp	Free
CHIP (Children)	1-877-543-7669	InsureKidsNow.gov	Free
ACA Marketplace	1-800-318-2596	HealthCare.gov	Free
FQHCs (Health Centers)	1-800-221-2393	FindAHealthCenter.hrsa.gov	Free to find
VA Health Care	1-877-222-8387	VA.gov/health-care	Free
Medicaid Long-Term Care	1-800-318-2596	Medicaid.gov	Free
SHIP / Navigator Help	1-877-839-2675	shiphelp.org	Free
Free Clinics / Drug PAPs	1-800-503-6897	freeclinics.us • NeedyMeds.org	Free
Indian Health Service	ihs.gov/locations	ihs.gov	Free (eligible tribes)
Medicaid Pregnant Women	1-800-318-2596	HealthCare.gov	Free

All phone numbers verified from official government and nonprofit sources as of March 2026. Program availability and eligibility vary by state. Always confirm current requirements at official websites before applying.

❓ Your Health Coverage Questions Answered Plainly

💡 I Am on Medicare — Do I Still Need to Apply for Medicaid Too?

If your income and assets are low enough, applying for Medicaid alongside Medicare is one of the most financially impactful moves a senior can make. Being “dual eligible” means Medicaid covers everything Medicare does not: long-term care, dental, vision, hearing aids, and all Medicare cost-sharing (premiums, deductibles, copays). A dual-eligible senior can access comprehensive health and long-term care coverage for zero or near-zero out-of-pocket costs per month. Contact your state Medicaid office or call 1-800-318-2596 to request a dual eligibility screening. If your income is below $2,000/month as a senior, you likely qualify for at least the Medicare Savings Programs if not full Medicaid.

💡 Which Program Should I Apply for First?

The answer depends on your situation. Under 65 and low income? Start with Medicaid at HealthCare.gov or your state Medicaid office. 65+ on Medicare with low income? Start with Medicare Savings Programs through your state Medicaid office, and simultaneously apply for Extra Help at ssa.gov/extrahelp. Have children without insurance? Apply for CHIP at InsureKidsNow.gov any time of year. No insurance and need to see a doctor this week? Go to FindAHealthCenter.hrsa.gov right now — no insurance needed, sliding-scale fees. Veteran? Apply at VA.gov. Not sure? Use BenefitsCheckUp.org to screen for everything at once, then call SHIP at 1-877-839-2675 (Medicare) or a Navigator at LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov for free personalized help.

💡 I Was Denied Before. Should I Apply Again?

Almost always yes. Three things change eligibility every year: 1) The Federal Poverty Level is updated each January — the 2026 FPL ($15,960 single; $21,640 couple) is 2.6% higher than 2025. Anyone whose income was just over the limit before may now qualify. 2) Your household situation may have changed — a reduction in income, a new dependent, higher medical expenses, or a disability all affect eligibility. 3) New programs or expanded thresholds may now cover you — the Inflation Reduction Act permanently expanded Extra Help to 150% FPL, and states have continued expanding their Medicaid programs in various ways. If your application was denied, you also have the right to appeal within 90 days. A free SHIP counselor or ACA Navigator can help you file an appeal at no cost.

💡 Are There Programs That Help With Both Coverage and Drug Costs?

Yes — enrollment in any Medicare Savings Program (QMB, SLMB, or QI) automatically qualifies you for Extra Help on Part D prescription drugs. This means you could receive one application approval that covers your Medicare premiums, deductibles, copays, AND reduces drug copays to $5.10 for generics and $12.65 for brand-name drugs. Similarly, full Medicaid plus Medicare dual eligibility eliminates virtually all out-of-pocket costs for both health care and prescriptions. For those who are uninsured entirely, NeedyMeds.org (1-800-503-6897) and manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs (RxAssist.org) can supply free brand-name medications while you work on getting permanent coverage.

💡 I Don’t Have Internet Access. How Do I Apply by Phone?

Every program on this list has a toll-free phone option. For Medicaid and ACA Marketplace, call 1-800-318-2596 (24/7). For Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or Social Security at (800) 772-1213. For free Medicare counseling, SHIP counselors at 1-877-839-2675 can walk you through every option. For VA health care, call 1-877-222-8387. For your nearest community health center, call 1-800-221-2393. For drug assistance, NeedyMeds has a dedicated helpline at 1-800-503-6897. Dialing 2-1-1 connects you to local social services around the clock. You do not need internet access to access any of these programs.

Sources: CMS dual eligibility fact sheet (Medicare+Medicaid zero out-of-pocket); HHS ACA Section 1557 language access; HealthCare.gov SEP rules; Medicaid.gov retroactivity (3 months most states); SSA.gov Extra Help auto-enrollment (purple letter; Medicaid/MSP/SSI triggers); NCOA MSP article (fewer than half eligible enrolled); medicaidplanningassistance.org 2026 (CSRA $162,660; Miller Trust; home exempt); SSA Extra Help IRA expansion (150% FPL permanently); shiphelp.org (appeal assistance; 90-day appeal window); NeedyMeds.org (1-800-503-6897); Dial 2-1-1 (national 211 network)

📊 Why Getting Coverage Matters — Key Numbers

🏥 Americans Without Coverage

25M+

Estimated Americans who remain uninsured, many of whom qualify for one or more programs on this list but have not applied. Up to 5 million more may lose ACA Marketplace coverage in 2026 due to enhanced subsidy expiration (Urban Institute).

🧓 MSP Enrollment Gap

<50%

Less than half of eligible seniors are enrolled in Medicare Savings Programs, per NCOA research. The primary barrier: not knowing the programs exist. The annual value of combined MSP and Extra Help exceeds $7,000 per qualifying individual.

💊 Extra Help Saves

$5,700/yr

SSA’s estimated annual value of Extra Help for Medicare Part D. Drug copays capped at $5.10 generic / $12.65 brand-name in 2026. Apply at ssa.gov/extrahelp or call (800) 772-1213. Auto-enrolled if on Medicaid, SSI, or MSP.

📉 ACA Premium Change

+114%

Average annual premium increase for subsidized ACA enrollees after enhanced tax credits expired December 31, 2025 (KFF analysis). Average annual cost rose from $888 to an estimated $1,904. Check Medicaid eligibility first; basic credits remain for 100–400% FPL.

Sources: Urban Institute (up to 5M ACA drop 2026); NCOA MSP enrollment under 50%; $7,000+ combined MSP + Extra Help annual value; SSA Extra Help $5,700; CMS drug copay caps 2026 $5.10/$12.65; KFF Enhanced PTC Calculator (avg $888 to $1,904 2026)

📍 Find Health Coverage Resources Near You

Allow location access when prompted to see the resources closest to your home. All services are free to apply for. No insurance is required to visit a community health center or free clinic.

Finding health resources near you…

✅ Five Steps to Find Health Coverage Starting Today

Step 1: Screen for everything at once — free in 5 minutes. Go to BenefitsCheckUp.org (operated by NCOA) and enter your zip code, age, and approximate income. You will receive a personalized list of health coverage programs, prescription assistance, food, utility, and housing programs you may qualify for — all in under 5 minutes, no account required, completely free.
Step 2: Apply for Medicaid first — no open enrollment, no deadline. Go to HealthCare.gov or your state Medicaid office and apply any day of the year. Even if you applied before and were denied, the updated 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines mean you may now qualify. Decisions take fewer than 45 days; retroactive coverage up to 3 months is available in most states.
Step 3: If you are on Medicare and your income is low, apply for Medicare Savings Programs immediately. Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or contact your state Medicaid office. QMB, SLMB, and QI could eliminate or dramatically reduce your Medicare costs and automatically enroll you in Extra Help for prescriptions. The combined annual value can exceed $7,000 for qualifying seniors — yet fewer than half of eligible people are enrolled.
Step 4: Get free expert help before giving up. SHIP counselors (shiphelp.org, 1-877-839-2675) help Medicare beneficiaries understand all their options at no cost, with no sales pitch. ACA Navigators at LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov do the same for Marketplace and Medicaid applications. Both services are free, available in multiple languages, and involve no obligation to enroll in anything.
Step 5: If you are uninsured right now, get care today. Go to FindAHealthCenter.hrsa.gov or call 1-800-221-2393. Federally Qualified Health Centers provide comprehensive primary, dental, and behavioral health care on a sliding-fee scale with no insurance required. You pay what you can afford, sometimes zero dollars. Many centers also help you enroll in coverage while you are there, at no extra charge.

📞 All Key Phone Numbers in One Place

Medicaid & ACA Marketplace: 1-800-318-2596 (24/7, all languages) • TTY: 1-855-889-4325
Medicare: 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) • TTY: 1-877-486-2048
Extra Help / Social Security: (800) 772-1213 • TTY: (800) 325-0778
CHIP for Children: 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669)
SHIP Free Medicare Counselors: 1-877-839-2675 • shiphelp.org
Community Health Centers (FQHCs): 1-800-221-2393 • FindAHealthCenter.hrsa.gov
VA Health Care (Veterans): 1-877-222-VETS (1-877-222-8387)
NeedyMeds Drug Help: 1-800-503-6897 • NeedyMeds.org
Benefits Screening: BenefitsCheckUp.org (NCOA) • Benefits.gov
Emergency Social Services: Dial 2-1-1 (24/7, nationwide)

© BudgetSeniors.com — This guide is independently researched and written. We are not affiliated with, compensated by, or endorsed by any insurance company, government agency, or health care provider. All income limits, contact information, and program details are verified from official government and nonprofit sources as of March 2026. Health coverage rules, phone numbers, and eligibility requirements change frequently — always confirm current requirements at official program websites or by calling program helplines before making any coverage decisions. For personalized legal or financial guidance, consult a licensed professional. Medicaid: 1-800-318-2596 • Medicare: 1-800-633-4227 • Extra Help: 800-772-1213 • CHIP: 1-877-543-7669 • VA: 1-877-222-8387 • SHIP: 1-877-839-2675 • FQHCs: 1-800-221-2393 • NeedyMeds: 1-800-503-6897 • Emergency: 2-1-1

Primary sources: HHS ASPE 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines ($15,960 single; $21,640 couple; 2.6% increase; Jan 15 2026 Federal Register); Medicaid.gov (138% FPL expansion; 10 non-expansion states; CHIP FY2027; pregnant women 185%+; postpartum 12 mo; LTC $2,982; HCBS; CSRA $162,660; retroactivity 3 months); Medicare.gov (QMB $1,350/$1,824; SLMB $1,616/$2,184; QI $1,816/$2,455; Part B $202.90 2026; 1-800-633-4227; TTY 1-877-486-2048); NCOA.org MSPs ($7,000+ value; under 50% enrolled; 1-877-839-2675); SSA.gov Extra Help (ssa.gov/extrahelp; 800-772-1213; $5,700 value; $16,590/$33,100 resource limits; 150% FPL IRA expanded; auto-enrollment purple letter); HRSA.gov FindAHealthCenter.hrsa.gov (1,400+ orgs; 15,000+ sites; 1-800-221-2393); Congress.gov CRS FQHC overview (Section 330 PHSA; 340B drug pricing; 1,200+ free clinics); VA.gov (va.gov/health-care; 1-877-222-8387; 170 medical centers; 1,074+ outpatient sites; 9M+ enrolled; $5-$11 prescriptions; 50% service-connected free); IHS.gov (ihs.gov; ihs.gov/locations; 35 states; tribal membership; VA-IHS MOU [email protected]); HealthCare.gov CHIP (1-877-KIDS-NOW; InsureKidsNow.gov; 200-400% FPL; no open enrollment; newborn auto-enrolled); NeedyMeds.org (1-800-503-6897; 10,000+ programs); freeclinics.us (1,200+ clinics); RxAssist.org; GoodRx.com; shiphelp.org (1-877-839-2675); NCOA BenefitsCheckUp.org (2,000+ programs); Benefits.gov; medicaidplanningassistance.org 2026; KFF Enhanced PTC Calculator (avg $888 to $1,904 2026); Urban Institute (up to 5M ACA drop 2026); Dial 2-1-1 (national 211 network 24/7)

Blog

Recommended Reads

Leave a Reply Cancel reply