Michigan Medicaid, through the Healthy Michigan Plan (HMP), provides affordable health coverage for low-income adults, children, seniors, and people with disabilities.
In 2025, a single adult may qualify if their earnings are below $21,597 per year, and a family of four might qualify if their income is under $44,367.
Michigan’s approach is different from many states because it uses cost-sharing, managed care, and incentives for preventive care to help people stay healthy and avoid high medical bills.
With more than 2.5 million enrollees statewide, Medicaid continues to be one of Michigan’s largest health programs.
Key Takeaways
- Single adults qualify up to $21,597/year (138% FPL) under the Healthy Michigan Plan.
- A family of four qualifies with an income of up to $44,367/year.
- Children and pregnant women have higher limits, often above 200% FPL.
- The MI Health Account tracks contributions and copays instead of surprise medical bills.
- Healthy Behaviors rewards include lower costs for preventive care participation.
- Seniors and disabled residents qualify under different income and asset rules.
- Applications go through MI Bridges, Michigan’s online portal.
Michigan Medicaid Income Limits 2025 by Household Size
| Household Size | 100% FPL (Annual) | 138% FPL (Adults under HMP) | 200%+ FPL (Kids/Pregnancy) |
| 1 person | $15,650 | $21,597 | ~$31,300+ |
| 2 person | $21,150 | $29,187 | ~$42,300+ |
| 3 person | $26,650 | $36,777 | ~$53,300+ |
| 4 person | $32,150 | $44,367 | ~$64,300+ |
| 5 person | $37,650 | $51,957 | ~$75,300+ |
| 6 person | $43,150 | $59,547 | ~$86,300+ |
Source: HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines
Explanation:
- Adults qualify under HMP up to 138% FPL.
- Pregnant women and children qualify at higher thresholds, often 200% FPL or more.
- Larger households have higher limits since expenses increase with family size.
- Example: A single adult earning $21,000 may qualify, as would a family of four earning $44,000.
MIChild Income Limits 2025 (Children’s Coverage)
Michigan children may qualify under MIChild, the state’s CHIP program, which serves families above regular Medicaid income limits.
| Family Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
| 1 | ~$2,750 | ~$33,000 |
| 2 | ~$3,718 | ~$44,600 |
| 3 | ~$4,685 | ~$56,200 |
| 4 | ~$5,653 | ~$67,800 |
Source: MIChild Program
Explanation:
MIChild helps children who don’t qualify for Medicaid but still need affordable care. Families pay just $10 per child per month, regardless of how many children are covered.
Understanding the Healthy Michigan Plan (HMP)
The Healthy Michigan Plan was created after Medicaid expansion in 2014. Instead of traditional Medicaid, most adults ages 19–64 are enrolled in private managed care plans funded by Medicaid.
Features of HMP:
- MI Health Account: Tracks contributions and copays (instead of large bills).
- Cost-sharing: Members pay small monthly amounts based on income.
- Healthy Behaviors incentives: Lower costs if members complete annual checkups and manage risk factors.
- Managed Care: Enrollees choose or are assigned a health plan that coordinates all care.
This approach makes Michigan’s Medicaid system unique by blending public insurance funding with private insurance delivery.
Who Qualifies for Medicaid in Michigan?
- Adults (Healthy Michigan Plan): Ages 19–64, income up to 138% FPL.
- Children (Medicaid & MIChild): Covered up to higher thresholds through Medicaid or CHIP.
- Pregnant Women: Covered at higher levels, with 12 months postpartum coverage.
- Parents/Caregivers: Covered under adult rules, with children often qualifying at higher limits.
- Seniors & Disabled Individuals: Eligibility based on income, assets, and medical needs; may include long-term care services.
How to Apply for Michigan Medicaid in 2025
- Go to the MI Bridges portal.
- Use the screening tool to check eligibility.
- Gather documents:
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns).
- Proof of residency (Michigan ID, utility bill, lease).
- Social Security numbers for all household members.
- Immigration documents if applicable.
- Submit online, by mail, or at a local DHS office.
- Choose a health plan (or get assigned automatically).
- Renew coverage annually by reporting changes.
Alternatives If You Don’t Qualify
- MIChild (CHIP): For children above Medicaid limits.
- Marketplace Plans (HealthCare.gov): Subsidized plans with low premiums after tax credits.
- Community Health Centers: Sliding-scale services for uninsured residents.
- Hospital Charity Care: Financial assistance for uninsured patients.
FAQs
1. What is the income limit for an adult in 2025?
2. How much can a family make and still get Medicaid?
3. Do kids have higher income limits than adults?
4. Can I still get Medicaid if I have a job?
5. Does Michigan Medicaid cover dental and vision care?
6. How do I apply for Michigan Medicaid in 2025?
You can apply online at MI Bridges (michigan.gov/mibridges). You will need to share proof of your income, identity, and Michigan address. You can also apply by mail or visit a local MDHHS office.
Conclusion
Michigan’s Medicaid system provides coverage through the Healthy Michigan Plan, MIChild, and programs for seniors and disabled residents. Adults qualify up to 138% FPL, while kids and pregnant women benefit from much higher thresholds. With features like the MI Health Account and Healthy Behaviors incentives, Michigan’s program makes care more predictable and preventive.
If you believe you qualify, start your application today through MI Bridges. Even if you don’t, options like MIChild, marketplace subsidies, or community health centers can keep coverage affordable.
