Medicaid Eligibility in Rhode Island 2026: Income Limits, Requirements & How to Apply

Medicaid Expansion Status in Rhode Island

Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?

Medicaid in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island

Seniors in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island is $1,118/month for a single person. For nursing home care, the limit is $2,982/month.

Medicaid for People with Disabilities in Rhode Island

People with disabilities who receive SSDI or SSI may qualify for Medicaid in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island

You can apply for Medicaid in Rhode Island through the following channels:

• Online: Through Rhode Island’s state Medicaid portal or HealthCare.gov
• Phone: Call Rhode Island’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 Rhode Island

Individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are called “dual eligibles.” In Rhode Island, 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 46,800 dual-eligible individuals in Rhode Island.

Medicaid Asset Limits in Rhode Island

In addition to income limits, Medicaid for long-term care in Rhode Island 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.