Applying for Medicaid in Georgia is simple. You can apply online, by phone, by mail, or in person. Most people get a decision within 45 days.
Georgia offers several Medicaid programs for families, children, seniors, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
Quick Summary:
- Apply online at Georgia Gateway (fastest method)
- Call 877-423-4746 for phone applications
- Income limits vary by program and family size
- You need proof of income, identity, and residency
- Retroactive coverage may pay bills from past 3 months
- Work requirements apply to Georgia Pathways program
Who Qualifies for Georgia Medicaid in 2026?
Georgia Medicaid serves different groups of people. You must be a Georgia resident and U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant.
Eligible groups include:
- Pregnant women
- Children under age 19
- Adults 65 and older
- People with disabilities
- Legally blind individuals
- People needing nursing home care
- Women with breast or cervical cancer
2026 Income Limits by Program
Income limits depend on which program you apply for.
| Program | Who Qualifies | Income Limit (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia Pathways (ages 19-64) | Childless adults | $1,304 (1 person), $2,220 (3 people) |
| Nursing Home Medicaid | Seniors/disabled | Under $2,982/month |
| Regular Medicaid | Aged/blind/disabled | $994 (single), $1,491 (couple) |
| Children (under 1 year) | Babies | Up to 205% FPL |
| Pregnant Women | Expecting mothers | Up to 220% FPL |
Source: Georgia.gov Medicaid and Georgia Pathways
4 Ways to Apply for Georgia Medicaid
Method 1: Apply Online (Fastest)
The online method is quickest and easiest.
Steps to apply online:
- Go to www.gateway.ga.gov
- Click “Apply for Benefits”
- Select “Medical Assistance”
- Fill out all required sections
- Upload your documents
- Submit and get instant confirmation
You can check your status anytime online. This is the fastest way to apply.
Method 2: Apply by Phone
Call the Division of Family and Children Services.
Phone number: 877-423-4746
A worker will help you complete the application. You’ll need to mail or upload documents after the call. This option works well if you have questions.
Method 3: Apply in Person
Visit your local DFCS office for face-to-face help.
Steps for in-person application:
- Call 877-423-4746 to find your county office
- Bring all required documents with you
- Submit your application to a DFCS worker
- Complete an interview with a caseworker
This method is best for complex situations.
Method 4: Apply by Mail
Request paper forms by calling 877-423-4746.
Mail application steps:
- Request forms be mailed to you
- Complete all forms carefully
- Make copies of required documents
- Mail everything to your county DFCS office
This is the slowest method but works if you prefer paper applications.
Documents You Need to Apply
Gather these documents before you apply:
Proof of Identity:
- Birth certificate
- Social Security card
- Government-issued photo ID
Proof of Income (last 4 weeks):
- Pay stubs or payroll records
- W-2 forms
- Social Security benefit letters
- Unemployment statements
- Pension or retirement income
Proof of Assets:
- Bank statements (checking and savings)
- Most recent tax return
- Information about property you own
Other Documents:
- Georgia residency proof (utility bill, lease)
- Current health insurance cards
- Medical bills from past 3 months (if seeking retroactive coverage)
Missing documents can delay your application. Gather everything before you start.
Source: Georgia Medicaid Eligibility
Georgia Pathways Work Requirements
Georgia Pathways to Coverage requires 80 hours of work or activities each month.
Qualifying activities include:
- Full-time or part-time work
- Job training programs
- Job search assistance
- Community service volunteer work
- College classes (credit hours count)
- Caregiving for family members
- Hospital or skilled nursing facility stays
You are exempt if you:
- Have children under age 6
- Already participate in SNAP Works Program
Keep records of your activities. You must verify them at application and renewal.
Source: Georgia Pathways Eligibility
How Long Does Approval Take?
Most applications are processed quickly.
Timeline:
- Standard applications: 45 days or less
- Disability cases: Up to 60 days
- Retroactive coverage: Pays bills from past 3 months
After you apply:
- A specialist reviews your application
- You may get a phone interview
- You receive a decision letter by mail
- If approved, your Medicaid card arrives by mail
Check your status online at www.gateway.ga.gov or call 877-423-4746.
What Happens After Approval?
You must choose a health plan within 30 days.
How to enroll in Georgia Families®:
- Online: Visit the New Member Enrollment portal
- Phone: Call 1-888-423-6765
- Mail: Complete and return the enrollment form
- In person: Meet with an enrollment counselor
If you don’t choose a plan in 30 days, one will be assigned to you.
Source: Peach State Health Plan
Special Medicaid Programs in Georgia
PeachCare for Kids®
Provides low-cost coverage for children. Apply through Georgia Gateway.
Long-Term Care Medicaid
Covers nursing home care and home health services. Income limit is $2,982/month for nursing home residents. Asset limit is $2,000 for single applicants.
Breast and Cervical Cancer Program
Uninsured women under 65 with cancer can qualify. Contact your county health department.
Source: Medicaid Planning Assistance
Tips for a Successful Application
Follow these tips:
- Apply online for fastest results
- Include medical bills from past 3 months
- Keep copies of everything you submit
- Respond quickly to requests for information
- Track work hours if applying for Pathways
- Check your mail regularly for notices
- Call 877-423-4746 if you need help
Most denials happen because of missing documents. Double-check everything before submitting.
FAQs: Georgia Medicaid Application 2026
Q: How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid in Georgia?
A: Most applications are processed within 45 days. Disability cases may take up to 60 days. You’ll receive a decision letter by mail.
Q: Can I apply for Georgia Medicaid if I work full-time?
A: Yes, if your income is below the limit for your family size. Georgia Pathways requires 80 hours of work monthly for childless adults ages 19-64.
Q: What is the income limit for Medicaid in Georgia 2026?
A: It varies by program. Georgia Pathways allows $1,304/month for one person. Pregnant women qualify up to 220% of poverty level. Children have higher limits.
Q: Does Georgia Medicaid cover past medical bills?
A: Yes. If approved, Medicaid may pay medical bills from the past three months before you applied. Include these bills with your application.
Q: What if I get denied for Georgia Medicaid?
A: You can appeal the decision. Your information is also sent to the federal marketplace to check if you qualify for subsidized private insurance.
Q: Do I need to reapply for Medicaid every year in Georgia?
A: No, but you must complete annual renewals. Georgia will send you a renewal form by mail. Complete it on time to avoid losing coverage.
Get Help with Your Application
Need assistance? Contact these resources:
Georgia DFCS: 877-423-4746
Georgia Gateway: www.gateway.ga.gov
Georgia Pathways: pathways.georgia.gov
You can also visit your local DFCS office for in-person help. Staff can answer questions and help you complete your application.
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Official Sources:
This guide provides general information about Georgia Medicaid. Eligibility rules and income limits may change. Always verify current requirements with Georgia DFCS or visit Georgia Gateway for the most up-to-date information.
