What is the lowest income to qualify for Medicaid?
Federal Poverty Level thresholds to qualify for Medicaid The Federal Poverty Level is determined by the size of a family for the lower 48 states and the District of Columbia. In 2023 these limits are: $14,580 for a single adult person, $30,000 for a family of four and $50,560 for a family of eight.
What Is Health Insurance?
Health insurance is a type of insurance that covers the cost of medical expenses, such as medical bills, medications, hospital stays, and more. It is designed to help cover costs that you may not be able to afford on your own, and helps protect you financially against unexpected health care costs.
How to Get Health Insurance without a Job
It is possible to get health insurance without a job, even if you don’t have employer-sponsored health insurance. Here are a few ways to get coverage:
• Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Both of these government programs provides free or low-cost health insurance for low-income families and individuals who meet certain eligibility requirements.
• Marketplace plans
If you don’t qualify for Medicaid or CHIP, you can still get insurance through the Marketplace. The Marketplace is a clearinghouse for health insurance plans from private companies.
• Short-term plans
Short-term health insurance plans provide up to three months of coverage, and may be a more affordable option than Marketplace plans.
• COBRA
COBRA stands for “Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act”, and is a law that requires employers to offer continued health coverage to former employees.
• Catastrophic plans
Catastrophic plans are designed to provide coverage for major medical expenses, such as hospital stays and surgeries, but they have low monthly premiums and higher out-of-pocket costs.
• Professional health or student health plans
If you are a student or a professional in certain fields, you may qualify for a professional or student health plans.
Recommendations
• Do your research
Before selecting a health insurance plan, make sure you understand all of the costs, benefits and coverage limits.
• Shop around
It’s important to compare plans from different providers to get the best price and coverage for your needs.
• Understand your options
Health insurance can be complicated, so it’s important to understand what each plan covers and the costs associated with it.
• Be prepared to pay
Most health insurance plans require you to pay a monthly premium, as well as copayments and deductibles.
• Contact your state insurance department
Your state insurance department can provide more information on plans and resources available in your area.
