Key Facts for Florida
- ✓Florida has not expanded Medicaid under the ACA
- ✓Non-disabled adults without children typically do not qualify
- ✓Children qualify through Florida KidCare up to 200% FPL
- ✓Pregnant women qualify up to 196% FPL
- ✓Apply through ACCESS Florida online portal
What Florida Medicaid Covers
Who Qualifies in Florida?
About Florida Medicaid
Florida Medicaid provides health coverage to eligible low-income Floridians including children, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and seniors. Florida has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, which means most adults without dependent children do not qualify regardless of their income level. Despite this, Florida Medicaid covers over 5 million residents and is administered through managed care plans in most counties. Floridians who don't qualify for Medicaid may be eligible for subsidized coverage through the ACA marketplace at HealthCare.gov.
How to Apply for Florida Medicaid: Step by Step
Documents You Need to Apply
- ☐Social Security number for each person applying
- ☐Florida driver's license or state ID
- ☐Proof of Florida residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement)
- ☐Proof of income (last 30 days of pay stubs or most recent tax return)
- ☐Birth certificates for any children applying
- ☐Citizenship or immigration documents if applicable
- ☐Medicare information if applicable
How Long Does Approval Take?
Florida Medicaid applications are typically processed within 45 days for standard applications. Pregnant women and children may receive faster decisions. Disability-related applications can take up to 90 days due to the required medical determination. Emergency Medicaid is available for non-citizens who have a medical emergency but do not otherwise qualify for full Medicaid.
Florida Medicaid FAQs
Who qualifies for Medicaid in Florida?
Florida Medicaid covers children up to age 19, pregnant women up to 196% FPL, people with disabilities, seniors with limited income, and some low-income parents with dependent children. Non-disabled adults without children generally do not qualify because Florida has not expanded Medicaid.
Has Florida expanded Medicaid?
No. Florida is one of the states that has not expanded Medicaid under the ACA. This creates a "coverage gap" where adults who earn too much for traditional Medicaid but too little for ACA marketplace subsidies have limited options. Federal legislation is required for Florida to expand.
What is Florida KidCare?
Florida KidCare is the umbrella program covering health insurance for Florida children through age 18, including Medicaid for the lowest-income children and CHIP for moderate-income families. Children in families earning up to 200% FPL may qualify.
How do I apply for Florida Medicaid?
Apply online at myflorida.com/accessflorida, by calling 1-866-762-2237, by mail, or in person at a DCF service center. The online portal is the fastest option and is available 24/7.
Does Florida Medicaid cover dental?
Florida Medicaid covers emergency dental services for adults, such as extractions to relieve pain or infection. Comprehensive dental coverage including cleanings and fillings is available for children through Florida KidCare.
What if I don't qualify for Florida Medicaid?
If your income is above the Medicaid limit, you may qualify for subsidized coverage through the ACA marketplace at HealthCare.gov. Many Floridians who don't qualify for Medicaid can find plans with low or $0 monthly premiums after premium tax credits.
Check your eligibility
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Check eligibility →Apply directly in Florida
You can also apply directly through the state portal — though our enrollment specialists can help you navigate the process for free.
Apply at state portal →Florida has not expanded Medicaid. Eligibility is more restricted for adults.