Maryland Medicaid helps low-income residents get free or low-cost health coverage. For 2026, income limits changed on February 1, 2026.
A single adult can earn up to $1,835 per month. A child can qualify with family income up to $4,283 monthly.
Quick Facts:
- Adults (19-64): Up to $1,835/month for one person
- Children (0-18): Up to $4,283/month for one child
- Pregnant women: Up to $3,260/month (counts unborn baby)
- No asset test for most applicants (MAGI groups)
- Apply at MarylandHealthConnection.gov
Who Qualifies for Maryland Medicaid in 2026?
Most people use MAGI rules. MAGI stands for Modified Adjusted Gross Income. It looks at your taxable income.
It does not count your savings or property. This makes it easier to qualify.
Learn more about Maryland medicaid eligibility in 2026 to see if you meet the rules.
2026 Monthly Income Limits (MAGI Eligibility)
These limits apply to adults, children, and pregnant women. They use MAGI rules. There is no asset test for these groups.
| Household Size | Adults (19-64) | Children (0-18) | Pregnant Women |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,835 | $4,283 | $3,260* |
| 2 | $2,490 | $5,809 | $4,422 |
| 3 | $3,142 | $7,332 | $5,581 |
| 4 | $3,795 | $8,855 | $6,741 |
| 5 | $4,448 | $10,379 | $7,900 |
*Note: Pregnant women count the unborn baby as a household member. A single pregnant woman is a household of 2.
Children qualify at much higher incomes than adults. This is through the Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP).
Compare these amounts with medicaid income limits by state in 2026 to see how Maryland ranks.
Detailed Eligibility Categories
Adults and Families (MAGI)
Most working-age adults use MAGI rules. This includes:
- Parents and caretakers
- Adults without children (expansion group)
- Pregnant women
- Children under 19
Key Benefits:
- No asset limits
- Counts tax household size
- Includes income deductions
Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD)
Seniors and disabled individuals use different rules. These are “Non-MAGI” programs. They have asset limits.
Income Limits:
- Medically Needy: $350/month
- Community Medicaid: Up to $1,304/month (100% FPL)
Asset Limits:
- Single person: $2,500
- Married couple: $3,000
Many seniors qualify for Medicare Savings Programs. These have higher income limits. Programs like QMB and SLMB help pay Medicare costs.
Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP)
Maryland offers two MCHP levels based on family income:
MCHP (Free Coverage)
- Income up to 322% FPL
- No premiums
- Full benefits
MCHP Premium
- Income from 322% to 454% FPL
- Monthly cost: $66–$88 per family
- Same benefits as free MCHP
This program covers children only. Adults cannot join MCHP.
Important Definitions You Need to Know
MAGI (Modified Adjusted Gross Income)
MAGI is your taxable income. It adds back some items like tax-exempt interest. It does not include:
- Child support received
- Veteran’s benefits
- Gifts or loans
Household Size
Your household includes:
- Yourself
- Your spouse
- Your tax dependents
Who you file taxes with matters. Who lives with you also matters.
Spend-Down Program
You might earn too much for regular Medicaid. But you have high medical bills. You can “spend down” your extra income.
Pay medical bills until you reach the income limit. Then you qualify for that month.
Check the Medicaid Fee Schedule 2026 to see what services are covered.
How to Apply for Maryland Medicaid
You have three ways to apply. Pick the one that works best for you.
Apply Online (Fastest)
Visit MarylandHealthConnection.gov
- Create an account
- Fill out the application
- Upload documents
- Get a decision in 1-2 days
Apply by Phone
Call 1-855-642-8572
- TTY: 1-855-642-8573
- Help available in many languages
- Monday–Friday, 8 AM–6 PM
Apply In Person
Visit your local office:
- Department of Social Services
- Local health department
- Navigator organizations
Bring proof of income, ID, and residency.
Review Medicaid eligibility requirements for 2026 before you apply to ensure you have all needed documents.
What Happens After You Apply?
Step 1: Maryland Health Connection reviews your application.
Step 2: They may ask for more documents. Send these quickly.
Step 3: You get a decision letter in the mail.
Step 4: If approved, pick a health plan (MCO).
Step 5: Start using your benefits.
Most decisions take 45 days. Pregnant women get faster decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum income for Medicaid in Maryland in 2026?
A single adult can earn up to $1,835 monthly. A child can qualify at up to $4,283 monthly. Pregnant women qualify at $3,260 for a household of one.
Does Maryland Medicaid check your bank account?
Most groups do not have asset tests. MAGI applicants (adults, children, pregnant women) do not need to report savings. Only ABD (senior/disabled) applicants face asset limits of $2,500–$3,000.
Can I get Medicaid if I work full-time?
Yes. Medicaid looks at income, not work hours. Many working families qualify. Deductions may help you meet the limits.
What is the difference between MCHP and Medicaid?
MCHP covers children only. It uses higher income limits. Medicaid covers all ages. MCHP Premium requires small payments for families over 322% FPL.
How long does Maryland Medicaid approval take?
Standard applications take up to 45 days. Pregnant women often get faster service. Online applications process quicker than paper forms.
Can seniors get Medicaid in Maryland?
Yes. Seniors 65+ use Non-MAGI rules. They have asset limits but may qualify for Medicare Savings Programs with higher income allowances than standard Medicaid.
Last Updated: March 3, 2026
Sources:
- Maryland Health Connection: MarylandHealthConnection.gov
- Maryland Department of Health Medicaid Information
