If you live in the Sunshine State and need low-cost health care, Florida’s Medicaid may help you. This guide shows you how to apply for Medicaid in Florida in simple steps.
You will learn who can apply, the income rules, what papers you need, and what happens after you apply.
Florida Medicaid is run by the Department of Children and Families and the Agency for Health Care Administration for the state of Florida, with rules set by the federal government.
Quick facts:
- Medicaid helps low-income individuals pay for medical care.
- You must be a Florida resident and meet basic eligibility criteria.
- Many groups can qualify, including pregnant women, children, seniors, and people with disabilities.
- You will need items like an ID card, proof of income, and your Social Security numbers.
- Most people apply using the MyACCESS account through the online portal.
✅ Start here: Check a quick estimate with our internal tool: Florida Medicaid Eligibility Calculator.
What Is Florida Medicaid?
Medicaid coverage is a Government Assistance program.
It helps pay for:
- Doctor visits
- Hospital care
- Prescription drugs
- Mental health care
- Some long-term care services
Florida uses a system called Statewide Medicaid Managed Care. Most people enroll in a health plan under Managed Medical Assistance (also called Medicaid Managed). These plans help you get care from nearby doctors and clinics.
Who Can Apply for Medicaid in Florida?
You must meet basic eligibility criteria and fit into one of Florida’s groups.
Basic rules
You usually must:
- Live in Florida (be a Florida resident)
- Be a U.S. citizen or have lawful status in the United States
- Give your Full name, Date of birth, and Zip Code
- Report your household size and household income
Groups Florida covers
You may qualify if you are:
- A child or in foster care
- One of the parents or caretakers in a low-income home
- Pregnant women
- A senior who needs nursing home care or an assisted living facility
- An adult with a disability
- A family member helping apply for a loved one (with permission)
Income Limits and Asset Limits
Florida checks money in two ways: income and, for some people, assets.
Income
Your income is compared with the federal poverty level and Florida rules. Florida looks at:
- Gross income
- Income levels for your family size
- Tax returns (if asked)
- Pay stubs or letters showing benefits
Assets (for seniors and disability cases)
Some programs also check what you own.
They may count:
- Bank accounts
- Bank statements
- Investments
- Extra real estate
They usually do not count:
- Your main home (in many cases)
- One car
- Personal belongings
If your income is too high for long-term care, a Miller Trust (also called a Qualified Income Trust) may help. This is part of Medicaid Planning, and it lets you move some income into a special account to meet the limit.
What Documents You Need
Bring or upload these required documents:
Identity and citizenship
- Proof of identity
- Proof of citizenship
- Birth certificate
- Driver’s license or state ID
- ID card
Money and work
- Pay stubs
- Tax returns
- Bank statements
- Proof of bank accounts
- Income Verification forms (if asked)
Living in Florida
- Lease agreement
- Utility bills
Other
- Social Security numbers
- Your contact information
- Insurance cards (if any)
How to Apply for Medicaid in Florida (Step-by-Step)
The Medicaid application process is clear and free. Choose the way that works for you.
✅ Apply Online (Fastest)
- Go to the online portal and create your MyACCESS account.
- Fill out the Application Form.
- Upload your papers.
- Submit and save your number.
This is run by the Office of Economic Self-Sufficiency under the Florida Department of Children and the Department of Children and Families.
☎️ Apply by Phone
Call Customer Service for help. A worker will:
- Ask about your income and who lives with you
- Help you fill the form
- Tell you how to send documents
📨 Apply by Mail or In Person
You can use a paper application:
- Fill it out
- Copy your documents
- Mail or take it to a local office
This is a good choice if you want face-to-face help.
What Happens After You Apply?
Processing time
Most cases take 30 to 45 days. Disability cases can take longer due to disability determination with the Social Security Administration.
Track your case
- Log in to your MyACCESS account
- Read your mail
- Send any missing papers quickly
What Medicaid Covers in Florida
Medical care
- Doctor visits
- Hospital care
- Tests and labs
- X-rays and therapy
- Prescription drugs
Children and families
Florida also offers:
- Florida Healthy Kids
- Florida KidCare
- Support for Child Care in some cases
Long-term care
For seniors and adults with disabilities:
- Medicaid Long-Term Care
- Long-term care services
- Home and Community Based Services
- Community Based Services
These services help with daily needs and can reduce high care costs.
Medicaid for Seniors and Long-Term Care
If you need daily help, Florida may offer long-term support.
Where care happens
- Nursing home care
- Assisted living facility
- Care at home (for approved cases)
Married couples
If one spouse needs care, the other may be a community spouse. Special rules protect some income and property for the healthy spouse.
Planning helps
Families use planning strategies like a Miller Trust to qualify. You may want legal advice from a Law Firm that has Medicaid as a Practice Area. This helps when assets are higher than the limit.
Disability Medicaid and SSI
If you receive Supplemental Security Income from the Social Security Administration, you may already qualify for Medicaid.
If not, Florida may ask for records from your doctor to complete a disability determination.
If You Are Denied
You can fix or appeal a decision.
Common reasons
- Missing papers
- Income above the income limit
- Assets above the asset limit
What to do
- Send missing proof
- Ask for a review
- File an appeal
You may also seek legal advice if your case is complex.
Special Situations
- Emergency Medicaid: Covers urgent care for some people who do not qualify in normal ways.
- Other help: Temporary Cash Assistance or another Assistance Program may be available for families.
Ways to Apply: Real-Life Examples
Example 1: Pregnant mom
Sara is pregnant and has low income. She applies online, uploads her papers, and gets care for doctor visits and medicines.
Example 2: Senior care
Mr. Lee is 73 and needs nursing care. His income is too high, but his family sets up a Miller Trust and he qualifies for Medicaid Long-Term Care.
Example 3: Child coverage
A dad applies for Florida KidCare and Medicaid for his son. The child gets checkups and medicine.
FAQs
How long does approval take?
About 30 to 45 days for most cases.
Can I apply without a job?
Yes. Many low-income adults qualify even without work.
Do I need a Social Security number?
Yes, you usually must give Social Security numbers.
Does owning a house stop me from qualifying?
Often no. Your main home is usually protected.
Can my family apply for me?
Yes. A family member or loved one can help with permission.
Is Medicaid the same as Medicaid & CHIP?
They work together. Medicaid & CHIP help children and families get care.
Final Checklist Before You Apply
- ✅ Full name and Date of birth
- ✅ Proof of identity and citizenship
- ✅ Proof of income and Bank statements
- ✅ Address proof (lease or utility bill)
- ✅ MyACCESS account created
- ✅ Contact information saved
Bottom Line
Florida Medicaid helps many people get health care when money is tight. If you meet the rules and send the right papers, you can get help with doctor visits, medicines, and long-term care. Apply online to move faster, and ask for help if you get stuck. Medicaid can make a real difference for you and your family.
