If you’re checking Arizona Medicaid (AHCCCS) eligibility for 2026, here are the key answers upfront:
- Income limits: For most low-income adults, eligibility is based on household size, starting at $1,735 per month for one person (current limits used at the start of 2026).
- Who qualifies: Low-income adults (19–64), children, pregnant women, seniors (65+), and people who are blind or disabled.
- Long-term care (ALTCS): Monthly income limit of $2,982, $2,000 asset limit, and possible home equity exemption up to $752,000 in 2026.
- Medical rules: ALTCS requires proof of nursing-home–level care through a medical screening.
- 2026 changes: Income limits may increase in January 2026, but 2025 limits apply until new numbers are released.
- Application: Apply online at Health-e-Arizona Plus, by mail, or in person; renew yearly or when income changes.
This article explains how Arizona Medicaid works in 2026, how household size and income are counted, what services are covered, and what to do if you’re denied. For broader rules and a nationwide context, see our full guide on Medicaid eligibility 2026.
What is AHCCCS (Arizona Medicaid)?
AHCCCS stands for Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System. It provides health coverage to folks who need it most in the state.
It serves over 2 million Arizonans, from kids to elders, through a setup where private plans manage the care.
Arizona runs things differently with a managed care model, members pick a health plan that handles doctor visits, meds, and more.
AHCCCS mainly covers:
- Low-income adults
- Children
- Pregnant women
- Seniors
- People with disabilities
Medicaid Eligibility in Arizona (2026 Overview)
To get AHCCCS, you must meet the basics like:
- Live in Arizona
- Be a U.S. citizen or have qualified immigrant status
- Fit income rules based on your group
- Count household size right
No tough legal terms here, just the facts to help you check if you qualify.
Arizona AHCCCS Income Limits (2025 — Current Limits Used for 2026 Eligibility)
Income limits for AHCCCS depend on your household size and eligibility group. Arizona has not released official Medicaid income limits for 2026 yet.
Until new limits are published, the most recent confirmed 2025 income limits remain in effect. These figures are used when checking eligibility at the start of 2026.
Most low-income adults qualify based on income alone under Medicaid expansion. Children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities follow different rules.
Household size matters. Larger households qualify at higher income levels. Always apply to get a final decision.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit (2026) | Annual Income Limit (2026) |
| 1 | $1,735 | $20,820 |
| 2 | $2,345 | $28,140 |
| 3 | $2,954 | $35,448 |
| 4 | $3,564 | $42,768 |
| 5 | $4,174 | $50,088 |
| 6 | $4,784 | $57,408 |
| 7 | $5,394 | $64,728 |
| 8 | $6,004 | $72,048 |
Note: Arizona has not published official AHCCCS income limits for 2026 yet. The 2025 income limits above remain in effect until updated 2026 figures are released. New limits are usually announced in January. This page will be updated when official numbers become available.
How Household Size is Calculated in Arizona
Household size includes who lives with you and depends on you financially.
Who counts:
- You
- Your spouse
- Kids under 19 you claim on taxes
- Other dependents like stepkids or parents if you support them
Who does not count:
- Roommates not related
- Adult kids over 19 unless disabled and dependent
Example: A single mom with two kids under 18 counts as household of 3. If her boyfriend lives there but they’re not married, he doesn’t count unless filing taxes together.
Who Qualifies for AHCCCS in 2026?
Low-Income Adults (19–64)
- Income up to 133% of federal poverty level (see table above)
- No dependent kids needed since Arizona expanded coverage
- Must not have Medicare
Children & CHIP (KidsCare)
- Kids under 1: Up to 147% FPL (e.g., $1,918 monthly for one-person household)
- Ages 1–5: Up to 141% FPL
- Ages 6–18: Up to 133% FPL
- KidsCare for higher incomes up to 225% FPL, with small premiums
Pregnant Women
- Income up to 156% FPL (e.g., $2,035 monthly for one)
- Covers prenatal care, delivery, and 60 days after birth
- Counts unborn child in household size
Seniors (65+)
- Income up to 100% FPL for basic coverage
- Or qualify through SSI or Medicare Savings Programs
- Can get help with Medicare premiums if income fits
Blind or Disabled Individuals
- Income up to 100% FPL or through Freedom to Work up to 250% earned income
- Must meet disability rules from Social Security
- Covers those working with disabilities
2026 ALTCS Eligibility, Coverage, and Health Plan Overview
Financial Eligibility Limits (Effective January 1, 2026)
To qualify for ALTCS, applicants must meet specific financial criteria. For most single applicants, the following limits apply:
- Monthly Income Limit: $2,982 (gross income).
- Countable Resource Limit: $2,000.
- Home Equity Limit: Up to $752,000 in home equity may be exempt if the applicant or a qualified relative resides in the home.
Community Spouse Protections (2026)
When one spouse applies for ALTCS and the other remains in the community, special protections help prevent spousal impoverishment:
- Minimum Resource Standard: $32,532.
- Maximum Resource Standard: $162,660.
- Maximum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance (MMMNA): $4,066.50.
These standards ensure the community spouse can retain sufficient income and assets while the applicant receives long-term care benefits.
Medical Eligibility Requirements
Beyond financial qualifications, applicants must demonstrate a medical need for nursing-home–level care. This determination is made through a Pre-Admission Screening (PAS), which evaluates:
- The applicant’s ability to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, transferring, toileting, and eating.
- The level of assistance required due to physical or developmental disabilities.
Only individuals assessed as being in “immediate need” of this level of care meet the medical eligibility standard.
ALTCS Health Plans (Current Through September 2026)
Because of procurement delays, Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) has extended contracts with existing ALTCS health plans through September 30, 2026. Current providers include:
- Mercy Care
- Banner-University Family Care
- UnitedHealthcare Community Plan
Members receive all covered long-term care and medical services through one of these managed care organizations.
Covered Services Under ALTCS
ALTCS operates under a managed care model, providing flexibility in how and where services are delivered:
- Institutional Care: Skilled nursing facilities and rehabilitation centers.
- Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS): Assisted living, adult day care, home-delivered meals, and personal care services.
- Medical Services: Physician visits, hospital care, and prescription medications.
- Member-Directed Options: Programs such as Self-Directed Attendant Care (SDAC) allow members to hire, train, and manage their own caregivers.
Together, these services are designed to support individuals who require long-term care while offering options to remain in community-based settings whenever possible.
What Counts as Income for AHCCCS?
Income means money coming in before taxes. AHCCCS uses Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) for most groups, it’s like your tax return total.
Includes:
- Wages from jobs
- Social Security benefits (except SSI for some)
- SSDI payments
- Pensions or retirement
- Self-employment earnings
MAGI adds up taxable income but subtracts some costs like student loan interest.
What Does Not Count as Income?
Some help doesn’t add to your total:
- SNAP food benefits
- Housing aid like Section 8
- Certain VA benefits for needs
- One-time disaster payments
How to Apply for Medicaid in Arizona
- Online: Go to healthearizonaplus.gov fastest way.
- In person: Visit a DES Family Assistance Office; call 1-855-HEA-PLUS for locations.
- By mail: Send forms to AHCCCS, P.O. Box 25520, Phoenix, AZ 85002.
- With help: Talk to a caseworker at 1-800-654-8713.
Renew every 12 months or when things change, like income.
What to Do if You are Denied
Stay calm, many fix it. Appeal within 30 days by calling AHCCCS or writing. Reapply if your situation shifts. Get free help from AHCCCS offices or legal aid groups like Community Legal Services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for AHCCCS in Arizona for 2026?
It varies by group, but low-income adults can earn up to $1,735 monthly for one person. Check the table for your household. Limits may refresh in January 2026.
Will Arizona Medicaid income limits increase in January 2026?
Yes, federal poverty levels often rise with costs, so AHCCCS limits could go up. Always confirm on the official site before applying.
Can I qualify for AHCCCS if I work part-time in 2026?
Sure, if your total income stays under the limit for your group. Part-time pay counts, but deductions might help. Use the online tool to check.
Does household size affect Medicaid eligibility in Arizona?
Yes, bigger households have higher limits. It includes you, spouse, and kids see the calculation section for details.
Is ALTCS changing in 2026?
Core rules stay, but income ($2,982 monthly) and asset limits may update in January. Medical needs assessment remains the same.
Can seniors qualify for Arizona Medicaid with Social Security income?
Yes, if under 100% poverty level or through Medicare help programs. Social Security counts as income, but many still qualify.
Does Arizona expand Medicaid in 2026?
Arizona keeps expanded coverage, so adults up to 133% poverty level can get AHCCCS without kids at home.
How often do AHCCCS income limits change?
Yearly, usually in January with federal updates. 2026 brings fresh numbers, don’t use old ones.
Key Takeaways
Income and household size drive most AHCCCS decisions in Arizona. January 2026 may tweak limits higher, while long-term care like ALTCS has its own income and asset rules. Verify everything fresh to avoid snags.
Check official AHCCCS resources at azahcccs.gov. Apply early to get covered fast, and review January updates before you submit.
