Florida Medicaid in Florida

Florida Medicaid is Florida's Medicaid program — free or low-cost health coverage for low-income residents. It is administered by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF).

Who qualifies for Florida Medicaid?

Florida has not expanded Medicaid. Coverage is more limited than in expansion states. Groups who may qualify:

• Children: Up to 212% FPL through Medicaid / CHIP
• Pregnant women: Up to 196% FPL
• Parents / caretakers: Very low income threshold (varies)
• Seniors and people with disabilities: SSI recipients qualify automatically
• Most adults without children: Do not qualify regardless of income

Florida covers children up to 212% FPL through Medicaid and Florida KidCare. Pregnant women may qualify up to 196% FPL under the Healthy Start program. Adults without children generally do not qualify. If you fall in the coverage gap, check HealthCare.gov — you may still be eligible for marketplace subsidies.

How to apply for Florida Medicaid

You can apply through Florida's official portal, by phone, by mail, or in person at your local Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) office.

• Online: Apply at ACCESS Florida →
• Processing time: Most applications are processed within 45 days (90 days for disability-based applications)
• Coverage start: If approved, coverage typically begins the first day of the month you applied
• Renewal: Medicaid eligibility is reviewed annually — respond to renewal notices to avoid losing coverage

What does Florida Medicaid cover?

Medicaid in Florida covers a comprehensive set of services, including:

• Doctor visits and preventive care
• Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
• Emergency services
• Mental health and substance use treatment
• Prescription drugs
• Lab tests and X-rays
• Prenatal care and delivery
• Long-term care (nursing home and home-based services)

Most services are covered at no cost or very low cost. Some plans may charge small copays for non-emergency services.

What documents do I need?

• Proof of identity (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
• Proof of Florida residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement)
• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or employer letter)
• Social Security numbers for all household members applying
• Proof of citizenship or immigration status

Common questions about Florida Medicaid

Can I keep my doctor on Florida Medicaid?

Florida Medicaid is often provided through managed care plans. When you enroll, you will choose a plan and a primary care provider. If your current doctor accepts Florida Medicaid, you can stay with them. Call your doctor's office to confirm before enrolling in a plan.

What if my income changes?

Report income changes to Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) within 10–30 days. If your income rises above the limit, you may qualify for marketplace coverage with subsidies instead — coverage is typically available without a gap.

Can I have both Medicaid and private insurance?

Yes. If you have employer coverage, Florida Medicaid can act as secondary insurance, covering costs your primary insurance doesn't pay. This is called "dual coverage" and can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

I don't qualify for Medicaid in Florida — what else can I do?

If Florida Medicaid doesn't cover you, check the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov — subsidies are available for incomes 100–400% FPL, and for some in the "coverage gap" (below 100% FPL), subsidies may still apply in non-expansion states. Community health centers also provide sliding-scale care regardless of insurance.