How to Apply for Medicaid in Colorado: What If You Get Denied?
- Share This:
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
One of the most common questions we hear is, “How do I even apply for Medicaid in Colorado?” Totally fair, and honestly, turns out, the steps will become pretty doable once you know what to expect.
Here’s how to apply for Health First Colorado (that’s the official name) and maybe what to do if you hit a bump along the way.
Disclaimer: This guide is intended to help customers better understand how to apply for Medicaid in Colorado. The following information is compiled from official government sources and may be subject to change. AirTalk Wireless does not represent or speak on behalf of Health First Colorado.
1. What is Medicaid in Colorado (Health First Colorado)?
Health First Colorado is Colorado’s Medicaid program. It provides free or low-cost health insurance to eligible individuals and families, including children, adults, pregnant people, older adults, and people with disabilities.
You may qualify for Health First Colorado based on your monthly income and household size. Below are the approximate monthly income limits in 2025:
| Family Size | Adults (19–65) | Children (0–18) | Pregnant Women |
| 1 | Up to $1,735 | Up to $1,852 | Up to $2,544 |
| 2 | Up to $2,345 | Up to $2,503 | Up to $3,437 |
| 3 | Up to $2,954 | Up to $3,154 | Up to $4,331 |
| 4 | Up to $3,564 | Up to $3,805 | Up to $5,225 |
The best way to find out if you qualify for Health First Colorado is to apply online. You can know about your eligibility immediately.
2. How to Apply for Medicaid in Colorado (Health First Colorado)
Apply Online
It’s the fastest way.
How to apply for Medicaid in Colorado online:
Most people apply through Colorado PEAK, the state’s online application system. You can check your application status and also see if you qualify for other benefits, such as CHP+.
Apply by Phone
Call 1-800-221-3943 / State Relay: 711 to apply.
Apply by Mail
Download a paper application at Colorado PEAK. Fill out and mail it to the address listed on the form.
Apply in Person
Go to your local county Department of Human Services office or visit a community application assistance site near you. Then you will get assistance to complete your application and answer questions.
Besides, you must renew your benefits annually. You cannot renew early and must wait until your renewal month. You can update your contact details, job status, or household changes anytime to keep your case up to date.
If you don’t complete your renewal by the deadline, your Health First Colorado will end.
- You have a 90-day reconsideration period to submit your late paperwork.
- Log in to Colorado PEAK or contact your county office to submit your renewal documents.
- If you miss the 90-day window, you’ll need to submit a new application.
>>> Read more: How to Apply for Medicaid in Georgia
3. What Documents Do You Need to Apply for Medicaid in Colorado?
When you apply for Health First Colorado, you’ll need to provide some basic information: You’ll be asked for:
- Proof of identity
- Personal information (name, date of birth, Social Security Number if available)
- Contact information
- Immigration documents (if applicable)
- Household income
- Tax filing info
- Details about any other health coverage
4. How Long Does It Take for Medicaid to be Approved in Colorado?
It can generally take up to 45 days to process your application.
Even if you applied by mail or phone, you can still track your application online. Log in to Colorado PEAK. Once you receive a case number, you can check your application and benefit status.
5. What if I Get Denied Medicaid in Colorado?
Your denial letter will explain why you were denied (e.g., income too high, missing documents, residency issues, etc). In case the denial was caused by missing or inaccurate information, you can log into your Colorado PEAK account to make updates.
If you believe the denial was a mistake, you have the right to request an appeal.
If you’re not eligible for Health First Colorado, you may still qualify for CHP+, Connect for Health Colorado, and or other assistance programs.
>>> Also read: Free Stuff with Medicaid: What You Can Get & How to Claim It
6. What’s the Difference between Medicare and Medicaid in Colorado?
Medicare and Health First Colorado are both government-funded health insurance programs, but they work differently. Some people qualify for both Medicare and Health First Colorado – this is called dual eligibility.
If you’re dual-eligible, Medicare pays first, and Health First Colorado may help with premiums, co-pays, or services Medicare doesn’t fully cover.
Talk to your local County Human Services Office if you’re unsure whether you may qualify for both or get free help at a Medical Assistance Site near you.
7. Free Phone & Internet Service with Medicaid in Colorado
Not breaking news, but, in fact, many people on Colorado Medicaid have no idea they can get a free phone and service. Just finding out now?
If you’re on Medicaid here (it’s Health First Colorado!), you automatically qualify for Lifeline. Free data, unlimited talk and text, and often, a smartphone or tablet. All you have to do is choose a provider with a great plan.
Here’s how to get started:
- Visit a provider’s website. If you kind of want to sign up to get that free government smartphone or tablet, go to AirTalk Wireless.
- Choose your plan
- Select your free device
- Upload documents (if required)
- Wait for approval
>>> Read more: Free Phone Service Colorado: Best Lifeline Providers & Benefits
Conclusion
One of the most complicated parts is usually just figuring out Medicaid in the first place – there are too many things. But the good news is, most states (including Colorado) have made the process way simpler.
You can apply online, and there’s always assistance available to help you check if you qualify and understand what benefits you might get. Life will always be a little hectic, but knowing you are covered? That made everything else feel a bit more manageable.
- Share This:
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
New on AirTalk Wireless
