If you live in Kansas and your income feels stretched thin, Medicaid, known here as KanCare, can help cover your healthcare costs. It’s designed for people who can’t afford private insurance, paying for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and more.
For 2025, KanCare uses updated federal poverty level (FPL) guidelines to decide who qualifies. Your eligibility depends mostly on how much you earn, how big your household is, and which group you fall into: adult, child, pregnant woman, senior, or someone living with a disability.
Understanding Medicaid in Kansas
Medicaid (or KanCare) is a partnership between the federal government and the State of Kansas. It helps low-income Kansans get access to care without facing huge medical bills.
In Kansas, KanCare covers:
- Adults between 19 and 64
- Pregnant women
- Children under 19
- Seniors aged 65 and older
- People with disabilities
While the federal government sets the main rules, Kansas manages its own program, including applications, renewals, and eligibility checks.
Kansas Medicaid Income Limits for 2025
Your income is the biggest factor in qualifying for KanCare. These limits are based on a percentage of the 2025 Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Kansas hasn’t fully expanded Medicaid as of 2025, but proposed expansion plans still use 138% of the FPL as the benchmark for adults. Below is an income chart that shows roughly where that line falls this year:
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit (138% FPL) | Annual Income Limit |
| 1 | $1,732 | $20,783 |
| 2 | $2,342 | $28,104 |
| 3 | $2,952 | $35,419 |
| 4 | $3,563 | $42,734 |
| 5 | $4,173 | $50,049 |
| 6 | $4,783 | $57,364 |
| 7 | $5,393 | $64,679 |
| 8 | $6,004 | $71,994 |
| Each extra person | + $610 | + $7,315 |
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Federal Poverty Guidelines 2025
These numbers reflect monthly and yearly limits. If your income sits below the limit for your household size, you might qualify, especially if you’re pregnant, disabled, or have children at home.
Who Qualifies for Medicaid in Kansas (2025)
Different groups qualify under different income limits. Here’s a quick breakdown of who’s covered and how:
| Category | Income Limit (% of FPL) | What It Means |
| Children (0–18) | Up to 250% | Most children qualify, often through CHIP if income is higher. |
| Pregnant Women | Up to 171% | Covers prenatal and postpartum care. |
| Parents/Caretakers | Up to 38% | Must have dependent children. |
| Seniors (65+) | Varies | Can qualifying for Medicaid plus Medicare help? |
| Disabled Individuals | Varies | Must meet Social Security disability criteria. |
Note: You must live in Kansas, be a U.S. citizen or legal immigrant, and fit one of these categories to qualify.
Kansas — Medicaid Income Limits by Category (2025 Estimates / Published Rules)
| Category | % of FPL / Rule | Example Household Size 4 Limit (Monthly)* | Notes / Source |
| Children (6–18 years) | 133% FPL | (133% of FPL for 4) | Kansas children’s Medicaid threshold per HealthInsurance.org |
| Children (1–5 years) | 149% FPL | (149% of FPL for 4) | Reported by HealthInsurance.org |
| Children (0–1 year) | 166% FPL | (166% of FPL for 4) | Infants covered up to 166% of FPL per HealthInsurance.org |
| Pregnant Women | 166% FPL | (166% of FPL for 4) | Kansas applies the same threshold for pregnant women |
| Parents / Caretakers | ~33% FPL | (33% of FPL for 4) | Eligibility for parents and caretakers is among the lowest nationwide (Kansas Action for Children, KAC.org) |
Note: To calculate the “Example Household Size 4 Limit,” use the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for a family of four, multiply by the category percentage, and divide by 12 for a monthly figure
How to Apply for Kansas Medicaid in 2025
Applying for KanCare is simple, and you can do it a few ways:
- Online: apply.medicaid.kansas.gov
- By Phone: Call the KanCare Clearinghouse at 1-800-792-4884
- By Mail: Send a paper application (available on the KanCare site)
- In Person: Visit your nearest Department for Children and Families (DCF) office
What You’ll Need to Apply
Before you apply, gather:
- A photo ID or driver’s license
- Proof of Kansas residency (like a utility bill or lease)
- Recent pay stubs or tax returns
- Social Security numbers for household members
- Immigration papers (if applicable)
Most applications take up to 45 days to process, but urgent medical cases may be reviewed faster.
Renewing Medicaid Coverage
KanCare doesn’t last forever; you’ll need to renew your coverage each year. The state will mail you a renewal form, or you can renew online. Update your income, address, and household details promptly to avoid a coverage gap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the Kansas Medicaid income limits for 2025?
For 2025, adults may qualify with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, that’s about $20,783 for one person or $42,734 for a family of four.
2. Can my kids get Medicaid even if I don’t qualify?
Yes. Kansas covers most children under KanCare or CHIP for families earning up to 250% of the FPL, even if the parents don’t qualify for adult coverage.
3. Are pregnant women covered under Kansas Medicaid in 2025?
Absolutely. Pregnant women with household income up to 171% of the FPL can get full coverage before and after childbirth.
4. What if I’m denied Medicaid?
You can appeal within 90 days of your denial. Submit more proof if something changed or if you believe there was an error. Kansas Legal Services can help for free.
5. How can I check if I still qualify for KanCare in 2025?
Visit apply.medicaid.kansas.gov or call 1-800-792-4884. You can log in to your account to view your status or update your information.
Final Thoughts
Medicaid continues to be a vital support system for Kansas families in 2025. Even though the state hasn’t expanded coverage yet, thousands still rely on KanCare every month for basic care and medication.
If you think you might qualify, check the latest income limits and apply. The help is there, and the process is easier than most people expect.
For updates, visit Medicaid.KS.gov or your local DCF office.
