Option #6 if your employer doesn’t offer health insurance

Find out if you’re eligible for Medicaid

About two-thirds of uninsured Americans younger than 65 are from low-income families, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation, a non-profit foundation focusing on healthcare issues in the U.S.

Having a low income isn’t enough to qualify for Medicaid. You have to be in what’s called an “eligibility group.” If you think you may quality for Medicaid – a joint program between your state and the federal government to provide health insurance for low-income people who can’t afford healthcare – check out this Medicaid directory at http://covertheuninsured.org/content/resources-uninsured.

The government sets the rules for Medicaid, but each state runs its own program. Qualifications often include your age; if you’re pregnant, blind, or disabled; and whether you’re a U.S. citizen or a lawfully admitted immigrant. If you’re not a citizen or a documented immigrant, your child may still be eligible for Medicaid if he or she is a U.S. citizen or a lawfully admitted immigrant.

Many people get turned down for Medicare or Medicaid coverage the first time they apply. You may need to appeal this decision more than once.

Generally, you can get coverage if you’re low-income and:

  • You’re pregnant
  • You have a child living at home
  • You have a disability
  • You spend a large portion of your income on healthcare

Medicaid takes a close look at your income, savings, investments, and anything else that can be sold for cash. And, even with Medicaid, you may have to pay a small part of your medical bills – for instance, a copayment.

For specific information about enrolling in Medicaid, check www.InsureKidsNow.gov/state/index.html or www.GovBenefits.gov, the official benefits Website of the U.S. government, with information on more than 1,000 benefit and assistance programs.

Option #5. Ask if you qualify for a state high-risk pool

Option #7. Check if your disability qualifies you for Medicare

Watch the Healthcare Video: What Do You Do If Your Employer Doesn’t Offer Health Insurance?