In 2026, a single adult in Colorado can qualify for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) with a monthly income up to $1,836.
A family of four qualifies with an income of up to $3,795 per month. These limits are based on the 2026 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) of $15,960 for one person.
Quick Summary:
- Single adults qualify at $1,836/month (138% FPL)
- Pregnant women qualify for up to $2,594/month (195% FPL)
- Children may qualify for CHP+ up to $3,458/month (260% FPL)
- Seniors and people with disabilities have a $2,982/month cap for Long-Term Care
- Non-MAGI applicants face an asset limit of $2,000 (individual)
- Apply online at Colorado.gov/PEAK or call 1-800-221-3943
2026 Colorado Medicaid Income Limits at a Glance
These are the key numbers you need to know before applying. Colorado uses two main categories: MAGI (for most adults and families) and Non-MAGI (for seniors and people with disabilities).
| Coverage Group | Monthly Limit |
|---|---|
| Adult (Ages 19–64) | $1,836 |
| Pregnant Women | $2,594 |
| CHP+ (Children) | $3,458 |
| Long-Term Care / Waiver | $2,982 |
| Asset Limit (Non-MAGI) | $2,000 |
MAGI Income Limits by Household Size (2026)
Most adults and families fall under the MAGI (Modified Adjusted Gross Income) category. This is the standard income test for adults ages 19–64, pregnant women, and children.
Before checking the table, it helps to understand Colorado Medicaid Eligibility 2026 so you know which category applies to you.
Adults (138% FPL)
Standard Medicaid for adults ages 19 to 64.
Pregnant Women (195% FPL)
Also known as “Baby & Me” coverage in Colorado.
CHP+ (260% FPL)
Child Health Plan Plus for children whose families earn too much for Medicaid but still need help.
| Family Size | Adults (138%) | Pregnant (195%) | CHP+ (260%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,836/mo | $2,594/mo | $3,458/mo |
| 2 | $2,489/mo | $3,517/mo | $4,689/mo |
| 3 | $3,142/mo | $4,440/mo | $5,920/mo |
| 4 | $3,795/mo | $5,363/mo | $7,150/mo |
| 5 | $4,449/mo | $6,286/mo | $8,381/mo |
| 6 | $5,102/mo | $7,209/mo | $9,612/mo |
Note: For each person beyond 6, add ~$653 to the Adult limit or ~$1,231 to the CHP+ limit. These are estimates based on the 2026 HHS Poverty Guidelines. Official state charts update each spring.
Not sure which income category you fall into? Use the Colorado Medicaid Eligibility Calculator 2026 to get a fast, personalized estimate.
Non-MAGI Limits: Seniors and People with Disabilities
For people aged 65 or older, or those with qualifying disabilities, Colorado uses different income rules. These are called “Non-MAGI” rules and they also count your assets — not just your income.
Long-Term Care and Waiver Programs (HCBS)
The income cap for nursing home care and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers is $2,982 per month in 2026. This is based on 300% of the SSI Federal Benefit Rate.
If your income is above $2,982 but below the actual cost of care, you may still qualify by setting up a special Income Trust.
SSI-Linked Medicaid
If you already receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you automatically qualify for Colorado Medicaid. The 2026 SSI Federal Benefit Rates are:
- Individual: $943/month
- Couple: $1,415/month
Asset Limits (Resource Test)
Non-MAGI applicants must pass a strict resource test:
| Applicant Type | Asset Limit |
|---|---|
| Individual | $2,000 |
| Couple (both applying) | $3,000 |
What is exempt from the asset test?
- Your primary home (up to ~$1.1 million in equity)
- One vehicle
- Personal belongings and household items
How Your Income Is Counted (MAGI Rules)
Colorado Medicaid looks at your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). Here is what counts — and what does not.
What Counts as Income
- Wages and salaries
- Self-employment income
- Unemployment benefits
- Rental income
What Does NOT Count
- SSI payments you receive
- Child support received
- Some veteran’s benefits
Pro Tip: Lower Your Countable Income
Contributing to a pre-tax account like a 401(k) or HSA can reduce your MAGI. This may help you qualify if you are just slightly over the limit.
How Household Size Is Determined
Colorado generally uses your tax filing unit to define household size.
- If you claim someone as a tax dependent — even a boyfriend or girlfriend — they count as part of your household.
- Larger households have higher income limits, so this can work in your favor.
Want to compare these limits with other states? See Medicaid Income Limits by State 2026 for a full national comparison.
How to Apply for Colorado Medicaid in 2026
Colorado uses the PEAK system to process all Medicaid applications. You do not need to calculate your FPL percentage yourself — PEAK does it automatically.
3 Ways to Apply:
- Online: Visit Colorado.gov/PEAK (official state portal)
- Phone: Call 1-800-221-3943
- In Person: Visit your local county Department of Human Services office
Documents to Have Ready:
- Recent pay stubs or tax returns
- Social Security award letters (if applicable)
- Proof of residency in Colorado
- ID or immigration documents (if applicable)
Also, check the current Medicaid fee schedule in 2026 if you are a provider or want to understand what services are covered under your plan.
You can also verify current guidelines directly at Medicaid.gov or through the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Colorado Medicaid income limit for a single person in 2026?
A single adult (ages 19–64) qualifies with a monthly income up to $1,836, which equals 138% of the 2026 Federal Poverty Level. This applies to the standard adult expansion group under Health First Colorado.
2. What is the income limit for a family of 4 in Colorado Medicaid 2026?
A family of four can earn up to $3,795 per month and still qualify for adult Medicaid. For CHP+ (children’s coverage), the same family can earn up to $7,150 per month.
3. Does Colorado Medicaid have an asset limit in 2026?
Yes, but only for Non-MAGI applicants like seniors and people with disabilities. The asset limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Standard adult Medicaid has no asset test.
4. Can I qualify for Colorado Medicaid if I’m just over the income limit?
Possibly. If you contribute to a pre-tax account like a 401(k) or HSA, your countable MAGI drops. Seniors over the Long-Term Care cap may qualify through an Income Trust arrangement.
5. What is the income limit for pregnant women on Colorado Medicaid in 2026?
Pregnant women qualify at 195% FPL, which is $2,594/month for one person. This “Baby & Me” coverage provides full prenatal and postpartum care through Health First Colorado.
6. How do I apply for Health First Colorado in 2026?
Apply online at Colorado.gov/PEAK, call 1-800-221-3943, or visit your local county office. The PEAK system checks eligibility for Medicaid, CHP+, and tax credits automatically — no manual calculations needed.
Last Updated: February 2026. Income figures are estimates based on the 2026 HHS Federal Poverty Guidelines. Official limits are subject to final state confirmation each spring. Always verify with Colorado.gov/PEAK or hcpf.colorado.gov for the most current figures.
