How to Apply for Medicaid in Michigan in 2026
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- Michigan Medicaid gives free or low-cost health coverage to eligible residents.
- Apply online through the MI Bridges portal.
- You can also apply on paper (MDHHS-1171) or in person at a county MDHHS office.
- Applying is free – you never pay to apply for Medicaid.
In Michigan, Medicaid provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income residents. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services runs the program through the MI Bridges portal. Here is how to apply for Medicaid in Michigan in 2026.
Who is eligible
Michigan Medicaid eligibility is based mainly on household income and size, following the same core rules as Medicaid eligibility nationwide. Children, pregnant Michiganders, families, seniors, and people with disabilities may qualify, and many adults qualify under the low-income expansion (the Healthy Michigan Plan). Because income limits depend on your household, confirm the current figure at the official source below and review what counts as income and the general Medicaid income limits.
How to apply
Michigan offers several ways to apply:
- Online – through MI Bridges at newmibridges.michigan.gov. Create an account, answer the questions, upload documents, and submit; you can save progress and later track status and renew there.
- By phone – call the MDHHS Beneficiary Helpline at 1-888-642-4845.
- On paper or in person – complete form MDHHS-1171 and submit it at your local county MDHHS office.
Applying is free – never pay a third party to apply.
Documents you will need
- Proof of identity and Michigan residency.
- Income information (pay stubs, benefit letters).
- Social Security numbers and immigration or status information for applicants.
- Household and tax-filing details.
After you apply
MDHHS reviews your application and may request more information – respond quickly. Track it with the Medicaid application status guide, and see when Medicaid coverage starts. Children who do not qualify may be covered through CHIP (MIChild), and people who also have Medicare should read about dual eligibility.
If you have an urgent medical need
If you had a recent medical emergency, ask about retroactive coverage and Emergency Medicaid while your application is processed.
Tips
- Apply even if you are unsure – MDHHS makes the final determination.
- Keep copies of everything you submit and note your case number.
- Report changes in income or household promptly; if needed, report an income change.
- Renew on time each year – see how to renew your Medicaid coverage – to avoid a gap.
What to do next
Gather your documents and apply through MI Bridges or your county MDHHS office today. Coverage can start quickly once you are approved. Comparing states? See how to apply in California, Texas, New York, Pennsylvania, and Georgia.
Official source
Learn about Michigan Medicaid and apply through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services at michigan.gov/mdhhs, the MI Bridges portal at newmibridges.michigan.gov, and medicaid.gov. Applying is free.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I apply for Medicaid in Michigan?
Online through MI Bridges (newmibridges.michigan.gov), by phone at 1-888-642-4845, or on paper with form MDHHS-1171 at your local county MDHHS office. Applying is free.
What is the Healthy Michigan Plan?
It is Michigan’s Medicaid expansion coverage for low-income adults. You apply the same way – through MI Bridges – and MDHHS determines the category you are eligible for.
What documents do I need?
Proof of identity, Michigan residency, income, and Social Security numbers or immigration information for applicants. Have household and tax details ready.
What to Do Next
Ready to act? Applying, checking status, and getting help are free through the official agency – you never pay a third party. Gather what you need, apply or respond early, and keep copies of everything you submit.