Medicaid Eligibility in New York 2026: Income Limits, Requirements & How to Apply

Medicaid Expansion Status in New York

New York has fully expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, meaning adults earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level ($22,025/year for an individual) qualify for Medicaid coverage.

Who Qualifies for Medicaid in New York?

Medicaid in New York covers several distinct groups, each with different income and eligibility requirements. The major categories are: seniors (65+), people with disabilities, pregnant women, children, and low-income adults (if the state has expanded Medicaid).

Medicaid for Seniors (65+) in New York

Seniors in New York may qualify for Medicaid to cover nursing home care, home-based care, or to supplement Medicare coverage. The income limit for Regular Medicaid (Aged, Blind, and Disabled) in New York is $1,118/month for a single person. For nursing home care, the limit is $2,982/month.

Medicaid for People with Disabilities in New York

People with disabilities who receive SSDI or SSI may qualify for Medicaid in New York. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid in most states. SSDI recipients must wait 24 months for Medicare, during which Medicaid may provide coverage if income is below $1,118/month.

How to Apply for Medicaid in New York

You can apply for Medicaid in New York through the following channels:

• Online: Through New York’s state Medicaid portal or HealthCare.gov
• Phone: Call New York’s Medicaid office directly
• In person: Visit your local Department of Social Services or Medicaid office
• Mail: Download and mail a paper application

Medicaid and Medicare Dual Eligibility in New York

Individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are called “dual eligibles.” In New York, dual eligible individuals receive comprehensive coverage: Medicare covers most medical services, while Medicaid covers Medicare premiums, deductibles, copays, and additional services like long-term care. There are approximately 756,000 dual-eligible individuals in New York.

Medicaid Asset Limits in New York

In addition to income limits, Medicaid for long-term care in New York has asset limits. For a single applicant, the countable asset limit is typically $2,000. For a married couple where one spouse needs nursing home care, the community spouse may keep up to $157,920 in countable assets (the Community Spouse Resource Allowance, or CSRA, for 2026). The primary home, one vehicle, personal belongings, and certain other assets are typically exempt.