Last Updated: February 2026 | Source: Maine DHHS & Federal Poverty Guidelines
MaineCare is Maine’s Medicaid program offering free or low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income residents.
In 2026, income limits are based on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), which increased by about 3% from last year.
Whether you are an adult, child, pregnant, or senior, knowing your income limit helps you apply with confidence.
Answer Summary:
- MaineCare income limits in 2026 range from 138% FPL (~$1,801/month) for adults to 305% FPL for children under 21
- Pregnant individuals qualify at 214% FPL — regardless of immigration status
- Seniors in nursing homes must earn under $2,982/month with assets below $10,000
- Most categories — including adults, children, and pregnant women — have no asset test
- If your income is too high, Maine’s Spend-Down program may still qualify you for coverage
- Major federal funding cuts and new eligibility checks take effect in late 2026
What Is MaineCare?
MaineCare is run by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). It is a joint federal and state program.
Maine expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2019, making coverage available to many more low-income Mainers — including working adults without children.
To understand the full picture of who qualifies, visit our guide on Maine Medicaid eligibility in 2026 for a complete breakdown of categories, residency rules, and documentation requirements.
How Income Limits Work in 2026
MaineCare income limits are tied directly to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The FPL is updated every January.
In 2026, the FPL increased by approximately 3% from 2025.
Your income limit depends on two things: your coverage category and your household size. Larger households have higher monthly income limits.
Most MaineCare categories have no asset test — meaning savings and property are not counted.
If you want to compare how Maine’s limits stack up nationally, see our full guide on Medicaid income limits by state in 2026 for a side-by-side comparison.
MaineCare Income Limits by Coverage Category (2026)
Maine covers several different groups under MaineCare. Each group has its own income limit. Here is a full breakdown of every major category.
Adults Ages 19–64 (ACA Medicaid Expansion)
Maine expanded Medicaid in 2019 under the ACA. Adults between 19 and 64 can qualify at 138% of the FPL.
- Monthly income limit: ~$1,732–$1,801 for a single adult
- Covers working adults, parents, and childless adults
- No asset test applies
- Postpartum individuals may stay eligible for up to 12 months after giving birth
This is one of Maine’s most widely used coverage pathways. If you work a part-time or low-wage job, you likely still qualify.
Children Under Age 21
Maine has one of the most generous income limits for children in the country. Children up to age 20 may qualify at up to 305% of the FPL.
- Annual income limit: ~$34,300 for a single-parent household
- Family of four: up to ~$68,600/year ($5,717/month)
- No asset test for children
- Young adults ages 19–20 may qualify through CubCare (CHIP)
Children’s coverage is available even for families with moderate incomes. Do not assume your child does not qualify — check your household size against the limits.
Pregnant Individuals
Pregnant Mainers qualify at a higher income threshold than most other adults — up to 214% of the FPL.
- Income-eligible pregnant persons can get MaineCare regardless of immigration status
- The unborn child is counted as a household member, which raises the income limit
- Coverage typically continues for 12 months postpartum
- No asset test applies
If you are pregnant and unsure about your status, apply right away. Coverage is broad and begins quickly.
Seniors and Disabled: Nursing Home / Long-Term Care
This is the most complex MaineCare category. It has both income AND asset limits in 2026.
Single Applicant Requirements:
- Monthly income limit: $2,982/month
- Asset limit: $10,000
- Must require a nursing home level of care
Married Applicants (both applying):
- Asset limit: $15,000 combined (shared room) or $10,000 per spouse (separate facilities)
- Income limit: $2,982/month per spouse
Married Applicants (one spouse applying):
- Applicant spouse asset limit: $10,000
- Non-applicant spouse (Community Spouse Resource Allowance): up to $162,660
- Income limit: $2,982/month for the applicant
Personal Needs Allowance: Nursing home residents keep a small personal allowance of $40/month. All remaining income (minus Medicare premiums) goes toward care costs — this is called Patient Liability.
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers
HCBS waivers allow eligible Mainers to receive care at home or in the community instead of a nursing facility.
- Income limit: $2,982/month for the applicant
- Asset limit: $10,000 for a single applicant
- The non-applicant spouse’s income is not counted
- These programs have limited slots — waitlists may apply
Apply as early as possible if you or a loved one may need this level of care.
Medically Needy / Spend-Down Program
If your income is too high for regular MaineCare, you may still qualify through the Spend-Down program. Think of it like a deductible — once you spend down enough on medical costs, MaineCare kicks in.
2026 Medically Needy Income Limits (MNIL):
| Household Size | Monthly MNIL |
|---|---|
| Individual | $315/month |
| Couple | $341/month |
Asset limits for Medically Needy:
- Individual: $2,000
- Couple: $3,000
The spend-down amount is calculated over a 6-month period. The difference between your income and the MNIL is what you must spend on medical bills before coverage begins.
Working Disabled (Disabled Adults Under 65)
Maine offers a special category for disabled adults who are working or self-employed.
- Must be under age 65
- Must have a disability determination from the Social Security Administration (SSA)
- Must earn income from employment or self-employment
- Some individuals pay nothing for coverage
- Higher earners pay $10–$20/month
This program helps disabled Mainers stay in the workforce without losing health coverage. It fills a critical gap that regular Medicaid does not cover.
Quick-Reference Income Limits Table (2026)
Use this table for a fast overview of all MaineCare income limits.
| Coverage Category | Income Limit (% FPL) | Approx. Monthly (Single) | Asset Test? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults 19–64 (ACA Expansion) | 138% FPL | ~$1,732–$1,801 | ❌ No |
| Pregnant Individuals | 214% FPL | Higher with household size | ❌ No |
| Children Under 21 | 305% FPL | ~$2,858+ (varies by family) | ❌ No |
| Nursing Home / LTC | ~300% SSI | $2,982/month | ✅ Yes ($10,000) |
| HCBS Waiver | ~300% SSI | $2,982/month | ✅ Yes ($10,000) |
| Medically Needy | MNIL-Based | $315/month individual | ✅ Yes ($2,000) |
💡 Tip: Income limits increase with household size. A family of four will always have a higher limit than a single person.
Asset Rules for Long-Term Care (2026)
Asset rules only apply to seniors and disabled individuals applying for long-term care MaineCare. Most other categories have no asset test.
Countable asset limits in 2026:
- Single individual: $2,000–$10,000 (depends on category)
- Couple: $3,000–$15,000 (depends on category)
- Home equity must be ≤$730,000
Assets that are NOT counted:
- Your primary home (up to the equity limit)
- One vehicle
- Household furniture and personal items
- Irrevocable funeral trusts
- Life insurance with a face value of $1,500 or less
Understanding these rules is important before applying for nursing home or waiver-based MaineCare. Misreporting assets can delay or deny your application.
Key 2026 Federal Policy Changes Affecting MaineCare
Several major federal changes are reshaping MaineCare in 2026. These updates may affect your eligibility or your provider choices. Maine residents should stay informed.
Understanding these changes is also important when reviewing Medicaid eligibility requirements for 2026 at the federal level, as many of these updates apply across all states.
Citizenship Rule Changes
A new federal law will stop MaineCare coverage for some non-citizens beginning in Fall 2026. However, children and pregnant individuals will still retain coverage regardless of immigration status.
Planned Parenthood / Family Planning Providers
Congress voted to bar Medicaid funding from going to certain family planning providers. In Maine, this affects Planned Parenthood of Northern New England and Maine Family Planning.
Federal Funding Cuts (One Big Beautiful Bill Act)
The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” initiates $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts over 10 years. The first cut begins in 2026 with the elimination of enhanced federal funds for ACA expansion states like Maine. This could affect how Maine funds its program going forward.
More Frequent Eligibility Checks
Starting December 2026, MaineCare expansion adults will face eligibility re-checks every 6 months instead of once a year. Make sure your contact information is current with DHHS to avoid losing coverage.
Pending Maine Legislation (LD 782)
A proposed Maine bill — LD 782 — would raise income and asset limits for elderly and disabled residents if passed:
| Group | Current Limit | Proposed Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Income (Elderly/Disabled) | 100% FPL | 138% FPL |
| Asset Limit (Individual) | $8,000 | $15,000 |
| Asset Limit (Household) | $12,000 | $25,000 |
⚠️ Note: LD 782 has not yet passed. Check maine.gov/dhhs for updates.
For those curious about how MaineCare reimburses healthcare providers, see our overview of the Medicaid Fee Schedule 2026, which outlines payment rates for covered services in Maine.
How to Apply for MaineCare in 2026
Applying for MaineCare is free. There are four easy ways to apply.
4 Ways to Apply
- Online: Visit MyMaineConnection.gov — the fastest option
- By Phone: Call 1-855-797-4357 (OFI Helpline) — Mon–Fri during business hours
- By Mail: Office for Family Independence, 114 Corn Shop Lane, Farmington, ME 04938
- Free Help: Call Consumers for Affordable Health Care at 1-800-965-7476
What You Will Need to Apply
- Proof of Maine residency (utility bill, lease, etc.)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, SSA letters)
- Social Security Number for each household member
- Photo ID
- Immigration documents (if applicable)
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply online for the fastest decision
- Report all household members — more people means a higher income limit
- If denied, you have the right to appeal within 30 days
- Even if your income is too high, ask about the Spend-Down program
Important Reminders for 2026
MaineCare rules can change throughout the year. Here is what you need to know right now.
- ✅ No changes to current benefits — MaineCare members should keep filling prescriptions and attending appointments
- ✅ Income limits update every January when new FPL guidelines are published
- ✅ You may still qualify even if your income is over the limit — ask about Spend-Down
- ✅ Always verify current limits at maine.gov/dhhs or call OFI
- ⚠️ Update your contact info with DHHS before December 2026 eligibility re-checks begin
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the MaineCare income limit for a single adult in 2026?
A single adult ages 19–64 can earn up to 138% of the FPL, which is approximately $1,732–$1,801/month in 2026. This applies to the ACA Medicaid expansion. No asset test is required. Income is based on gross monthly earnings.
2. Do children qualify for MaineCare if their parents earn too much?
Yes. Children under 21 can qualify at up to 305% of the FPL — much higher than adult limits. A family of four can earn around $68,600/year and still qualify. Children have their own separate income threshold. Always check eligibility even with a moderate household income.
3. Can pregnant women get MaineCare regardless of immigration status?
Yes. Pregnant Mainers who meet the income limit — up to 214% FPL — can qualify for MaineCare regardless of immigration status. Coverage includes prenatal care and continues for 12 months postpartum. The unborn child is also counted in the household size.
4. What are the MaineCare asset limits for nursing home care in 2026?
Single applicants must have under $10,000 in assets and income below $2,982/month. Married couples have combined limits. Non-countable assets include your home (up to $730,000 equity), one car, and household items. Asset rules do not apply to most other MaineCare categories.
5. What happens if my income is too high for MaineCare?
You may still qualify through the Medically Needy Spend-Down program. Once your out-of-pocket medical expenses bring your income down to the MNIL — $315/month for individuals — MaineCare coverage begins. Asset limits apply ($2,000 for an individual). Apply and ask your caseworker about Spend-Down eligibility.
6. How do the 2026 federal Medicaid cuts affect MaineCare in Maine?
The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” cuts $1 trillion in Medicaid funding nationally over 10 years. Maine will lose enhanced ACA expansion funding starting in 2026. New citizenship rules take effect in Fall 2026. Eligibility re-checks will move to every 6 months starting December 2026. Current benefits remain in place for now.
Official Resources
- 🏛️ Maine DHHS MaineCare Page: maine.gov/dhhs
- 🌐 Apply Online: MyMaineConnection.gov
- 📞 OFI Helpline: 1-855-797-4357
- 📞 Free Enrollment Help: Consumers for Affordable Health Care — 1-800-965-7476
- 🏛️ Federal Medicaid Info: Medicaid.gov
This article is for informational purposes only. Income limits and program rules can change. Always verify current eligibility at maine.gov/dhhs or by calling the OFI Helpline at 1-855-797-4357.
Last Updated: February 2026
