Last Updated: February 2026 | Source: Michigan MDHHS, KFF, Federal Poverty Guidelines 2026
Michigan Medicaid helps low-income residents get free or low-cost health coverage.
In 2026, a single adult qualifies for the Healthy Michigan Plan with income at or below $22,025 per year (138% of the Federal Poverty Level).
Seniors, children, and pregnant women have their own rules and higher income thresholds.
Here’s What You Need to Know:
- In 2026, a single adult qualifies for Michigan Medicaid (Healthy Michigan Plan) with income at or below $22,025/year ($1,835/month) — no savings or asset limit applies.
- A family of four qualifies with income up to $45,540/year.
- Pregnant women qualify up to 200% FPL (~$43,280 for a household of 2), and children qualify up to 217% FPL (~$71,610 for a family of four).
- Seniors and disabled adults (ABD Medicaid) face a stricter $9,950 asset limit and an income cap of ~$1,330/month.
- Nursing home applicants are capped at $2,982/month in income, with a 5-year look-back rule on asset transfers.
- You can apply online in minutes at MI Bridges (mibridges.michigan.gov) or call 1-888-642-4845.
- Starting January 2027, new federal work requirements (80 hrs/month) will take effect — but do not apply yet in 2026.
Page Contents
- 1 What Is Michigan Medicaid?
- 2 Who Qualifies for Michigan Medicaid in 2026?
- 3 2026 Michigan Medicaid Income Limits by Program
- 4 Healthy Michigan Plan Income Limits (Adults 19–64)
- 5 Children’s Medicaid in Michigan 2026 (U-19 & MIChild/CHIP)
- 6 Pregnant Women: Michigan MOMS Program 2026
- 7 Traditional Medicaid for Seniors and Disabled Adults (ABD)
- 8 Long-Term Care Medicaid in Michigan 2026 (Nursing Homes & Waivers)
- 9 How to Apply for Michigan Medicaid in 2026
- 10 Major 2026 Policy Changes You Need to Know
- 11 Official Sources and Where to Get Help
- 12 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 12.1 1. What is the income limit for Michigan Medicaid in 2026?
- 12.2 2. Does Michigan Medicaid count savings or assets for adults under 65?
- 12.3 3. How do I apply for Michigan Medicaid in 2026?
- 12.4 4. Can I get Michigan Medicaid if I work full time?
- 12.5 5. What are the Michigan Medicaid asset limits for nursing homes in 2026?
- 12.6 6. Are there new Medicaid work requirements in Michigan for 2026?
What Is Michigan Medicaid?
Michigan Medicaid is a joint state and federal health insurance program. It is run by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
Medicaid covers more than 2.6 million Michigan residents — about one in four people in the state.
Michigan expanded Medicaid in 2014 through the Healthy Michigan Plan under the Affordable Care Act.
This opened coverage to many working adults who previously did not qualify.
Who Qualifies for Michigan Medicaid in 2026?
Michigan Medicaid is not just for people who are unemployed. Many working adults with low or inconsistent income qualify too.
To be eligible, you generally must meet all of the following:
- Fit a qualifying group (adult, child, pregnant woman, senior, or disabled)
- Be a Michigan resident
- Be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
- Have income below the program limit
- For long-term care programs, also have assets below the limit
For the Healthy Michigan Plan (most adults ages 19–64), there is no asset test. Savings, a car, or a home do not count against you.
2026 Michigan Medicaid Income Limits by Program
Income limits are based on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For 2026, the FPL for one person is $15,960 per year ($1,330/month).
Each program uses a different percentage of that number.
For a full comparison across states, see our guide to Medicaid income limits by state in 2026.
| Program | Who It Covers | Income Limit (Single) | Asset Test? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthy Michigan Plan | Adults 19–64 | $22,025/year (~$1,835/mo) | ❌ No |
| U-19 / MIChild (CHIP) | Children under 19 | 217% FPL | ❌ No |
| Pregnant Women (MOMS) | Pregnant adults | 200% FPL (~$3,607/mo, HH of 2) | ❌ No |
| Nursing Home Medicaid | Seniors / Disabled | $2,982/month | ✅ Yes ($9,950) |
| Aged, Blind & Disabled (ABD) | Seniors / Disabled | ~$1,330/month | ✅ Yes |
Healthy Michigan Plan Income Limits (Adults 19–64)
The Healthy Michigan Plan covers most non-elderly adults. Eligibility is based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). There is no asset test for this group.
The income limit is set at 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, which includes a built-in 5% disregard. For more details on how Michigan compares to other states, see Michigan Medicaid eligibility in 2026 for a state-by-state breakdown.
2026 Annual and Monthly Income Limits
| Household Size | Annual Limit (138% FPL) | Monthly Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $22,025 | $1,835 |
| 2 People | $29,863 | $2,488 |
| 3 People | $37,702 | $3,141 |
| 4 People | $45,540 | $3,795 |
Note: If you earn slightly above these limits, you may still qualify. Always apply and let MDHHS determine your eligibility.
Children’s Medicaid in Michigan 2026 (U-19 & MIChild/CHIP)
Michigan offers generous Medicaid coverage for children. Both programs have an income limit of 217% of the FPL. Neither program has an asset test.
What’s Covered for Children?
The U-19 Medicaid program offers a full package with no monthly premium. It includes vision, dental, and mental health services.
2026 Income Limits for Children
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit (217% FPL) |
|---|---|
| Family of 3 | ~$59,284 |
| Family of 4 | ~$71,610 |
Families near the top of this range may qualify for MIChild (CHIP) with a small monthly premium (around $10/month).
Pregnant Women: Michigan MOMS Program 2026
Michigan covers prenatal care, labor and delivery, and 12 months of postpartum care for qualifying pregnant women. The income limit is set at 200% of the FPL (195% + a 5% disregard).
Key Rules for the MOMS Program
- The unborn child counts as a household member
- A single pregnant woman is automatically a household of 2
- 2026 Income Limit (Household of 2): $43,280 per year (~$3,607/month)
Coverage for the mother continues for a full 12 months after delivery.
Traditional Medicaid for Seniors and Disabled Adults (ABD)
Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) Medicaid has stricter rules than the Healthy Michigan Plan. It requires both an income test and an asset test.
This program often overlaps with Medicare. Michigan also offers Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) to help low-income seniors pay their Medicare costs.
2026 Income Limits for ABD Medicaid
- Individual income limit: ~$1,330/month (100% FPL)
- If income exceeds the limit, you may still qualify through a spend-down (paying medical costs equal to the gap)
2026 Asset Limits for ABD Medicaid
- Individual: $9,950 in countable assets
- Couple (both applying): $14,910
Exempt assets (not counted): Your primary home, one vehicle, and personal household items.
Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) 2026
| Program | Who It Helps | Income Limit (Individual) | Asset Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) | Pays Part A & B premiums + co-pays | $1,330/month (100% FPL) | $9,950 |
| SLMB (Specified Low-Income) | Pays Part B premium only | $1,596/month (120% FPL) | $9,950 |
Long-Term Care Medicaid in Michigan 2026 (Nursing Homes & Waivers)
Long-term care Medicaid has a separate financial structure. It covers nursing homes and home-based care through the MI Choice Waiver program.
To understand how provider payments work under this program, see our guide on Medicaid Fee Schedule 2026 for detailed reimbursement rates by service type.
2026 Income Limit for Nursing Home Care
- Income Cap: $2,982/month (300% of the Federal Benefit Rate)
- Spend-Down: If your income is higher, you may still qualify by paying excess income toward medical costs
2026 Asset Limits for Long-Term Care
| Who | Asset Limit |
|---|---|
| Single Applicant | $9,950 |
| Community Spouse (non-applicant) | Up to $162,660 (50% of joint assets) |
| Minimum Spousal Protection | $32,532 |
| Home Equity Limit | $752,000 |
The Spousal Income Allowance cannot push a non-applicant spouse’s total income above $4,066.50/month in 2026.
The 5-Year Look-Back Rule
Applicants for nursing home Medicaid must not have given away assets within the 60 months (5 years) before applying. If they did, a penalty period is calculated by dividing the total gifted amount by the 2026 divestment divisor of $12,216.30.
Example: If $61,081.50 was gifted, Medicaid will not pay for 5 months of care.
⚠️ The Look-Back Rule does not apply to Regular (ABD) Medicaid.
How to Apply for Michigan Medicaid in 2026
Applications are processed by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). You can apply in three ways:
Option 1: Apply Online (Fastest)
Go to MI Bridges to create an account, upload documents, and track your application status.
Option 2: Apply by Phone
Call the MDHHS beneficiary helpline: 1-888-642-4845
Option 3: Apply In Person or By Mail
Visit your local MDHHS county office or mail your application to: P.O. Box 30037, Lansing, MI 48909
What Documents Do You Need?
Gather these before you apply to avoid delays:
- Proof of income (pay stubs, award letters, tax returns)
- Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Proof of Michigan residency (utility bill, lease)
- Social Security number for all household members
- Birth certificates for children
- Medical records (required for long-term care applications only)
How Long Does It Take?
- Standard applications: Up to 45 days
- Disability-related applications: Up to 90 days
- Retroactive coverage: Benefits may go back up to 3 months before your application date (changing to 2 months starting January 2027)
Major 2026 Policy Changes You Need to Know
Michigan Medicaid is going through significant changes in 2026. Here is what to watch:
Federal Budget Cuts and Funding Pressure
Governor Whitmer signed a 2026 fiscal year budget that includes $2.7 billion in federal health care funding to protect core Medicaid services.
The Trump administration has proposed $911 billion in federal Medicaid cuts, creating ongoing budget pressure across all states.
Federal Work Requirements (Starting January 2027)
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (passed July 2025) creates new Medicaid work requirements.
Starting January 1, 2027, most Medicaid enrollees must show at least 80 hours per month of work, school, or community service — and verify every 6 months.
Exemptions include:
- Pregnant individuals
- People receiving SSDI or SSI disability benefits
- Full-time students
- Caregivers of children under age 13
Michigan’s MDHHS will begin outreach on these requirements by September 30, 2026.
More Frequent Eligibility Reviews
Starting December 2026, Medicaid renewals will shift from annual to every 6 months. Make sure your contact information is current with MDHHS to avoid losing coverage.
Reduced Retroactive Coverage (January 2027)
Retroactive Medicaid coverage will be reduced from 3 months to 2 months before application. Apply as soon as you think you may qualify.
Official Sources and Where to Get Help
- Michigan MDHHS: michigan.gov/mdhhs
- Apply Online — MI Bridges: mibridges.michigan.gov
- MDHHS Helpline: 1-888-642-4845
- KFF Medicaid Policy: kff.org/medicaid
- Federal Benefit Updates: michigan.gov/mdhhs/benefit-updates
⚠️ Medicaid rules are complex and change often. For long-term care planning, consult a Certified Medicaid Planner or Elder Law Attorney. Always verify your specific situation with MDHHS directly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the income limit for Michigan Medicaid in 2026?
For a single adult, the Healthy Michigan Plan income limit is $22,025 per year ($1,835/month). A family of four qualifies with income up to $45,540/year. Pregnant women and children have higher limits up to 200%–217% FPL.
2. Does Michigan Medicaid count savings or assets for adults under 65?
No. The Healthy Michigan Plan has no asset test. Savings, a car, or a home are not counted for adults ages 19–64. Asset tests only apply to elderly or disabled applicants and long-term care programs.
3. How do I apply for Michigan Medicaid in 2026?
Apply online through MI Bridges at mibridges.michigan.gov — it is the fastest option. You can also call 1-888-642-4845 or visit your local MDHHS office. Processing takes up to 45 days for most applications.
4. Can I get Michigan Medicaid if I work full time?
Yes. Many working adults qualify if their income falls below program limits. A single full-time worker earning less than $22,025/year may qualify for the Healthy Michigan Plan regardless of employment status.
5. What are the Michigan Medicaid asset limits for nursing homes in 2026?
A single nursing home applicant must have $9,950 or less in countable assets. A non-applicant spouse can keep up to $162,660. The home, one vehicle, and personal belongings are typically exempt from counting.
6. Are there new Medicaid work requirements in Michigan for 2026?
Not yet in 2026 — but starting January 1, 2027, federal rules will require most enrollees to show 80 hours/month of work or community service. Michigan’s MDHHS must begin notifying enrollees by September 30, 2026. Disabled individuals and caregivers are exempt.
Sources: Michigan MDHHS, Federal Poverty Guidelines 2026, KFF.org, mibridges.michigan.gov
