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Am I Eligible for Medicaid or Medicare in Michigan? (2027)
Medicaid and Medicare sound alike, but they're different programs for different people. Medicaid is based on income and run by each state. Medicare is based on age or disability and run by the federal government. Some people qualify for both.
Medicaid in Michigan
Michigan expanded Medicaid, so adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level (about $22,025 a year for one person) can generally qualify for the Healthy Michigan Plan (Medicaid).
Children, pregnant women, people with disabilities and seniors with low income can qualify at higher income levels in every state, often through CHIP for kids. Medicaid looks at your current monthly income, not last year's tax return, so a recent job loss can make you eligible right away. You can apply any time of year.
New for 2027: Medicaid work requirements
Starting January 1, 2027, most expansion adults ages 19 to 64 have to show 80 hours a month of work, school, job training or community service (or equivalent income) to keep Medicaid, unless they qualify for an exemption such as caring for a young child, a disability, or pregnancy.
Medicare
You're generally eligible for Medicare if you:
- Are 65 or older and a U.S. citizen or qualifying permanent resident, or
- Have received Social Security disability benefits for 24 months, or
- Have end-stage renal disease or ALS.
Your initial enrollment window is the seven months around your 65th birthday month. Missing it without other qualifying coverage can mean a permanent late-enrollment penalty on Part B and Part D, so mark the date.
Turning 65 with a marketplace or private plan
Once you're eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A, you generally lose any marketplace tax credit, so plan the switch for your Medicare start date. Private individual plans usually end at 65 too.
If you qualify for neither
Most adults under 65 above Medicaid limits buy through HealthCare.gov. Tax credits run from 100% to 400% of the poverty level. Outside the marketplace, private shared-network plans are sold in Michigan on leased PPO networks (Cigna, Aetna and PHCS PPO). They're medically underwritten, so they ask health questions and price on age and health instead of income, but you can enroll any month and coverage starts on the 1st.
See health insurance without a job or affordable options on a budget. Or check your options and we'll screen for Medicaid, the marketplace and private plans at once.
Frequently asked questions
What is the income limit for Medicaid in Michigan?
For most adults in Michigan, 138% of the poverty level, about $22,025 a year for one person.
When can I sign up for Medicare?
During your initial enrollment period, the seven months around the month you turn 65: three months before, your birthday month, and three months after.
Can I have Medicaid and Medicare at the same time?
Yes. People who qualify for both are called dual eligible, and Medicaid can help pay Medicare premiums and cost sharing.