How to Apply for Medicaid in Maryland & More Perks
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Medicaid is a lifeline for millions of Americans, including so many people in Maryland. As a joint federal–state program, Medicaid plays a major role in both health care and state budgets. In the 2023 federal fiscal year, Medicaid spending totaled around $890 billion, with the federal government covering 69% of the cost.
Let’s explore how to apply for Medicaid in Maryland, and get extra benefits you may not know you’re entitled to.
Because each state runs its own program within broad federal guidelines, how Medicaid works and how to apply can look a bit different depending on your area.
Disclaimer: This guide is intended to help customers better understand how to apply for Medicaid in Maryland. 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 Maryland Medicaid.
1. Maryland Medicaid Eligibility
Maryland Medicaid provides free or low-cost coverage to eligible low-income individuals. The program plays a critical role in both individual well-being and the state’s health infrastructure.
The only way to know for sure if you’re eligible for Maryland Medicaid is to apply.
In general, to be eligible for Maryland Medicaid, you must meet basic requirements:
- Live in Maryland
- Be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen
- Meet income guidelines for your specific coverage group
Monthly Income Limit Guidelines (Effective January 1, 2025)
| Household Size | Adults | Children | Pregnant Women |
| 1 | $1,801 | $4,202 | N/A |
| 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 |
Depending on your situation, you may also need to meet additional requirements, such as:
- Age or disability status (e.g., being over 65, blind, or living with a disability)
- Medical need, such as needing long-term care
- Asset limits, especially for seniors or those applying under disability-based programs
If you’re over 65 and meet income and asset requirements, you may qualify for Medicaid, even when you have Medicare. In that case, Maryland Medicaid can help pay for things Medicare doesn’t, such as copays, premiums, and long-term care.
If you’re an SSI recipient, you automatically qualify and don’t need to apply separately for Medicaid.
2. How to Apply for Medicaid in Maryland
You can apply any time. There’s no need to wait for an enrollment period. And if you’ve been denied in the past, your situation may have changed, so just reapply.
For adults (ages 20–64), children (0–19 years old), pregnant people, parents, or former foster youth:
There are several ways to apply:
- Apply online at marylandhealthconnection.gov
- Use the Maryland Health Connection app
- Call 1-855-642-8572 for help over the phone
- Apply in person at your local health department or department of social services
For people age 65 or older, blind, or disabled:
- Apply online at marylandbenefits.gov
- Apply in person at your local health department or department of social services
- Mail in your application
(If you already get SSI, you don’t need to apply separately for Medicaid. You’re automatically enrolled.)
After you’re approved, you’ll need to renew your Medicaid coverage regularly to keep your benefits. The state will let you know when it’s time.
>>> Read more: How to Apply for Medicaid in KY (Important Notes)
3. Government Programs You May Qualify For with Maryland Medicaid
We all know Maryland Medicaid is a huge help with health coverage, but did you know it can also score you a free phone and monthly service with Medicaid?
If you’re enrolled in Medicaid, you automatically qualify for Lifeline, the federal program that helps low-income households stay connected.
Just head to a provider like AirTalk Wireless, pop in your Maryland ZIP code, and pick a Lifeline plan in Maryland. You’ll even get to choose a free government phone in Maryland, which they’ll ship straight to your door once you’re approved.
All you need? A quick upload of your Medicaid card or approval letter if your Medicaid status can’t be automatically verified. That’s it. Free service and free device.
>>> Check now: The latest free phone offers in Maryland
Here’s another easy win. In addition to free phone service through Lifeline, SNAP (food benefits), LIHEAP (energy bill assistance), and WIC (nutrition support) could also be a big help for your family (having Medicaid doesn’t automatically qualify you for these, though).
Check in with the Maryland Department of Human Services and see what you’re missing.
4. Are There Disadvantages to Having Medicaid in Maryland?
It’s limited provider availability. Not every doctor or specialist accepts Medicaid.
Accessing certain types of care can be difficult under Medicaid. While some of these gaps reflect broader issues in the healthcare system, they’re often made worse by provider shortages in low-income areas, lower payment rates for Medicaid compared to private insurance, and fewer doctors choosing to accept Medicaid patients.
Then there’s the paperwork. You’ll need to renew your Medicaid coverage annually and report any income changes, or risk losing benefits.
Even with all that, the best advice is always to apply for Medicaid.
Medicaid offers comprehensive health and long-term care coverage.
According to the KFF report, Maryland Medicaid provides coverage to nearly 1,5 million children and adults across the state. Among Medicaid enrollees in Maryland, around 3 in 8 are children, 1 in 25 live in rural areas, and 1 in 6 have three or more chronic conditions.
Medicaid covers a wide range of health services, such as doctor visits and preventive care, hospital stays and emergency services, mental health and substance use treatment, and so on.
Besides, some people with both Medicaid and Medicare get extra help paying for healthcare.
Conclusion
Medicaid plays a far bigger role than many people realize, especially in key areas of care. KFF reported that more than half of Medicaid spending went toward individuals who qualify due to age or disability in 2021. Applying for Medicaid is free, and the benefits are waiting for you.
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