What is the income limit for Medicaid in NY?
Low-income New Yorkers can receive healthcare through Medicaid, but there are strict limits on income that reduce eligibility.
Medicaid is a federal program that provides health insurance to low-income individuals and families across the country. Federal law requires that each state offer a certain standard of care, but each state has some discretion as to what additional services are offered and how eligibility will be designed.
In 2022, 7.7 million New Yorkers received healthcare through Medicaid, representing around thirty-eight percent of the state’s residents. Over the course of the pandemic, the number of people insured through Medicaid increased by 1.6 million, highlighting how the economic fallout stripped many workers and their families of healthcare.
Who is eligible for Medicaid in New York?
In New York, only citizens, permanent residents, and documented immigrants can receive healthcare through Medicaid. In addition to one’s “financial situation [being] be characterized as low income or very low income,” an applicant must also meet one of the following requirements:
- Pregnant, or
- Be responsible for a child 18 years of age or younger, or
- Blind, or
- Have a disability or a family member in your household with a disability, or
- Be 65 years of age or older.
As for the income requirement, the qualifying amount depends on how many people form part of the applicant’s household. The amounts in the table are pre-tax incomes.
Medicaid Income Eligibility
| Households Size | Income Cap |
| 1 | $18,075 |
| 2 | $24,353 |
| 3 | $30,630 |
| 4 | $36,908 |
| 5 | $43,186 |
| 6 | $49,463 |
| 7 | $55,741 |
| 8 | $62,018 |
How do I apply for Medicaid in New York?
There are two main paths one can take when applying for Medicaid coverage.
Those looking to apply online can do so through the New York State of Health website. If you need help submitting the application, you can visit your local social services department.
What does Medicaid cover in New York?
Those who receive coverage through Medicaid will have regular doctors and clinic visits, regular physical exams, immunizations, lab tests and x-rays, vision, hospital stays, emergency care, and prescription. For seniors, the program can also be used to cover nursing home services. Additionally, unlike some other states, New York provides dental care as a part of Medicaid.