Medicaid Eligibility in New Jersey 2026: Income Limits and Who Qualifies

Wondering if you qualify for Medicaid in New Jersey in 2026?

Here are the simple answers most people want right away 👇

✅ Can I get Medicaid in New Jersey in 2026?

Yes, many people can. New Jersey Medicaid (called NJ FamilyCare) is available to adults, families, children, seniors, and people with disabilities who meet income rules.

💰 What is the income limit?

• Most adults ages 19–64 qualify if income is about $1,800 per month for one person
• A family of four may qualify with income around $3,700 per month
• Children and pregnant women can qualify at higher income levels

👨‍👩‍👧 Do I need kids or a disability?

No. Because New Jersey expanded Medicaid, adults without children can qualify based on income alone.

💼 Can I qualify if I work?

Yes. Many people who work full-time, part-time, or are self-employed still qualify if their income is low enough.

🏦 Are there asset limits?

• No asset limits for:
  • Expansion adults
  • Children
  • Pregnant women
• Asset limits apply only to:
  • Seniors (65+)
  • People with disabilities
  • Long-term care Medicaid

🏥 What does NJ Medicaid cover?

• Doctor visits and hospital care
• Prescription medicines
• Checkups and preventive care
• Dental and vision for children
• Pregnancy and long-term care services

Medicaid rules are managed by the New Jersey Department of Human Services, and income limits are updated each year.

If you’re also researching Medicaid rules nationwide, see our full guide on medicaid eligibility 2026 for a state-by-state overview.

This article explains:

• Who qualifies for NJ FamilyCare in 2026
• Income limits by household size
• How working adults qualify
• How to apply without delays

Keep reading to find out if you or your family can get coverage.

Overview of Medicaid in New Jersey for 2026

New Jersey Medicaid is the state’s health program for low-income people. It operates through NJ FamilyCare. This covers basic care like doctor visits and hospital stays.

Prescriptions and check-ups are included. Kids get dental and vision. Adults get emergency dental.

New Jersey Medicaid remains expanded in 2026. This means low-income adults 19 to 64 can qualify without kids or disability. NJ FamilyCare serves families, seniors, and those with disabilities too.

New Jersey’s higher cost of living affects income thresholds compared to some states. This makes limits a bit higher. The program keeps people healthy without big bills.

Who Is Eligible for Medicaid in New Jersey in 2026?

Anyone can apply for New Jersey Medicaid. Approval depends on your group and income. Adults without children can qualify if income falls within limits.

• Low-income adults qualify under NJ FamilyCare expansion group. This includes ages 19 to 64. You don’t need kids or disability.
• Children get coverage based on family income. This helps kids up to age 18. Many qualify through NJ FamilyCare.
• Pregnant women get help during pregnancy and after. Income limits are higher here.
• Parents and caretakers of kids may qualify. You must live with dependent children.
• Seniors age 65 and older often get coverage. Income and assets are checked.
• People with disabilities qualify if health limits work. This includes physical or mental issues.

Eligibility ties to household size and income. U.S. citizens or qualified immigrants can apply. New Jersey residents only.

New Jersey Medicaid Income Limits (2025 — Used for 2026 Eligibility)

Income limits depend on your NJ FamilyCare group and household size. New Jersey has not released official Medicaid income limits for 2026 yet.

Until new figures are published, the confirmed 2025 income limits remain in effect. These limits are used when checking eligibility at the start of 2026, especially for expansion adults.

Note: New Jersey has not published official Medicaid income limits for 2026 yet. The 2025 income limits remain in effect and are used to determine eligibility at the beginning of 2026. Updated limits are expected in January 2026. This page will be updated once they are confirmed.

How Household Size Impacts Medicaid Eligibility in New Jersey

Household size includes everyone living together. This counts you, spouse, and dependents. Size raises income limits.

Dependents like kids or elderly parents matter. They increase the number. This allows higher total income.

Differences between tax household and Medicaid household exist. Tax includes who you claim on returns. Medicaid looks at who lives with you and shares costs.

For example, a single adult has size one with low limits. Adding a child makes size two and raises the cap. This helps families qualify.

Get this right to avoid errors. Use state tools to count yours.

Can Employed or Self-Employed Adults Qualify in New Jersey?

Employment does not disqualify you. Many full-time and self-employed residents qualify. Monthly income matters more than job type.

Self-employed people deduct business costs. This lowers countable income. Full-time workers with low pay often fit limits.

New Jersey’s expansion helps. If income stays under thresholds, you get coverage. Apply to see if you fit.

Asset Limits Under New Jersey Medicaid Programs

• No asset limits for:
  Expansion adults
  Children
  Pregnant women
  
• Asset limits apply to:
  Seniors 65+
  Disability-based Medicaid
  Long-term care Medicaid
  

Savings, property, and vehicles count as assets. Bank accounts and stocks matter. Homes and one car often don’t.

Check rules for your group. This prevents denials.

Long-Term Care Medicaid in New Jersey (2026 Changes to Watch)

Long-term care Medicaid helps with nursing homes or home services. It’s for those needing daily aid.

Financial rules include low income and assets. Medical needs must show care required.

New Jersey is reviewing long-term care Medicaid eligibility rules for 2026, and income or asset limits may be updated during the year.

Nursing home Medicaid covers stays if you qualify. Managed Long-Term Services and Supports handles home care.

Apply through county offices. Proof of needs is key. This covers help like bathing or meals.

How to Apply for Medicaid in New Jersey

• Apply online through NJ FamilyCare or GetCoveredNJ. This is fast. Go to njfamilycare.org. Create an account and fill forms.
  
• Apply in person at a County Board of Social Services. Find yours on nj.gov/humanservices. Bring papers.
  
• Apply by mail or phone if needed. Download forms from the site. Call 1-800-701-0710 for help.
  

Mention document requirements like ID, income proof, and residency. Staff help if needed. Apply anytime.

How Long Does Medicaid Approval Take in New Jersey?

Standard cases take up to 45 days. Long-term care can take 90 days or more. Why long-term care takes longer. Medical reviews add time. Respond quick to county requests. This speeds things up.

Common Reasons NJ FamilyCare Applications Are Delayed or Denied

• Incomplete income verification. Always send pay stubs or tax returns.
  
• Household size errors. Count everyone right to avoid denials.
  
• Missed county notices. Check mail and reply fast.
  
• Applying under the wrong NJ FamilyCare category. Pick the right group for your needs.
  

Key Takeaways

NJ FamilyCare remains expanded in 2026. This helps more adults qualify. Household size strongly affects limits. Bigger families have higher caps. Income limits update in January 2026. Long-term care rules may change. Verifying details early prevents delays. This gets you covered sooner.

New Jersey Medicaid Eligibility 2026; FAQs