Medicaid in Maryland provides health coverage to many low-income residents. To qualify in 2025-2026, your household income must stay under certain limits.
These limits vary by category for adults, children, pregnant individuals, or people with disabilities. Below is a clear, human guide to Maryland’s Medicaid income thresholds, who qualifies, and how to apply.
What Maryland Medicaid Covers and Who Qualifies
Medicaid in Maryland extends beyond basic medical care. It includes doctor visits, hospital stays, mental health services, prescriptions, and long-term care support.
It is available to several groups:
- Adults ages 19-64 with low incomes
- Pregnant individuals
- Children and youth
- Seniors (65+) and those with disabilities
- Individuals needing long-term care
Because Maryland expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, more adults qualify now than before the expansion.
Income Limits by Household Size for 2025
Maryland publishes monthly income thresholds for different categories effective January 1, 2025. These tables show how much someone can earn and still qualify:
| Household Size | Adult (19-64) Limit | Children Limit | Pregnant Limit |
| 1 | $1,801 | $4,202 | — |
| 2 | $2,433 | $5,677 | $4,654 |
| 3 | $3,065 | $7,152 | $5,863 |
| 4 | $3,698 | $8,630 | $7,075 |
| 5 | $4,330 | $10,104 | $8,284 |
| 6 | $4,962 | $11,579 | $9,493 |
| 7 | $5,596 | $13,057 | $10,705 |
| 8 | $6,228 | $14,532 | $11,914 |
For elderly or disabled individuals, Maryland uses a separate set of income and asset rules. For example, a single person may be limited to $350/month and an asset cap of $2,500, while a couple might have a slightly higher limit.
Eligibility by Coverage Category
Income limits differ by who you are in Maryland. Here’s how eligibility breaks down:
- Adults (19–64): Under expansion, many adults qualify if their income is at or below the limits above.
- Children & Youth: Younger people often have much higher thresholds, allowing families with moderate incomes to qualify.
- Pregnant Individuals: Pregnancy boosts eligibility. The income limit for a family of four in this category is higher than for adults alone.
- Seniors / Disabled: These groups often have stricter income and asset limits. They may also use “medically needy” or special waiver programs.
- Long-Term Care / Institutional: People who need nursing home or home and community based care have specific income rules. Their limit may be substantially lower than for standard Medicaid.
How to Qualify: Beyond Income
Meeting the income threshold is only part of Maryland Medicaid eligibility. You also must:
- Live in Maryland
- Be a U.S. citizen or meet qualified immigrant status
- For seniors or disabled programs, satisfy asset limits
- For long-term care, comply with special rules around income and spousal support
- Some programs allow “spend-down” where high medical bills reduce countable income
These rules ensure that people who need help most can access it despite small fluctuations in income.
How to Apply for Maryland Medicaid in 2025
Applying is straightforward. You can:
- Use the Maryland Health Connection portal online
- Submit a paper application or visit your local Department of Social Services
- Call local social services offices for assistance
Once you apply, you may be asked to provide documentation such as proof of income, identity, and residency. Decisions are often made within a few weeks if everything is in order.
If approved, your coverage usually begins on the first of the month in which you applied or as allowed by state rules.
Frequently Asked Questions: Maryland Medicaid 2025-2026
1. What are Maryland’s Medicaid income limits for adults in 2025?
Adults ages 19–64 qualify if their gross monthly income is at or below $3,698 for a household of four.
2. Do children have higher limits than adults?
Yes. Children can qualify under higher thresholds; the children’s limit for a family of four is $8,630 per month.
3. Are pregnant individuals eligible for higher limits?
Yes. The limit for pregnant individuals in a family of four is $7,075.
4. How do eligibility rules work for seniors and the disabled?
These groups face additional rules. Their income and assets must meet stricter caps and they may use medically needy options if necessary.
5. What if my income is slightly above the limit?
You may still qualify by deducting medical expenses under “spend-down” programs. This can bring your countable income within the allowed range.
6. What is the processing time for Maryland Medicaid approval?
Applications are generally processed within weeks if all paperwork is in order.
7. Can I lose Medicaid if my income rises later?
Yes. You must report changes during annual renewal periods, and your eligibility may be reassessed.
Final Thoughts
Understanding Maryland’s Medicaid income rules in 2025-2026 is vital for anyone depending on health coverage. Whether you’re a parent, someone expecting a child, or someone managing a chronic condition, knowing the limits and application steps can save you from costly surprises.
To start your application or check eligibility, visit the official Maryland Health Connection portal or contact your county’s social services office.
