Medicaid is a government-run health insurance program that provides healthcare coverage to low-income individuals and families. Eligibility for Medicaid varies by state, but there are some basic requirements that individuals must meet to qualify for the program.

First and foremost, individuals must have a low income to qualify for Medicaid. The specific income requirements vary by state, but generally, individuals and families must have income below a certain threshold to be eligible for Medicaid. In many states, the income threshold is set at 138% of the federal poverty level.

In addition to income requirements, individuals must also meet certain non-financial requirements to qualify for Medicaid. These requirements vary by state, but some of the most common non-financial requirements include:

• Citizenship or lawful presence in the United States: To qualify for Medicaid, individuals must be either a citizen of the United States or have lawful presence in the country.
• Residency in the state: To qualify for Medicaid, individuals must be a resident of the state where they are applying for coverage.
• Age: Some states have age requirements for Medicaid eligibility. For example, some states provide Medicaid coverage to individuals aged 65 and older.
• Disability: Some individuals with disabilities may qualify for Medicaid coverage, even if their income is above the income threshold.
• Family status: In some states, families with children may qualify for Medicaid coverage, even if their income is above the income threshold.

It's important to note that eligibility requirements for Medicaid can change over time, as states update their policies and regulations. Additionally, some states have expanded Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act, which provides coverage to individuals with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level.

If you believe you may be eligible for Medicaid, it's important to contact your state's Medicaid program to learn more about the specific requirements and how to apply for coverage. Medicaid provides essential healthcare coverage to millions of Americans, so it's worth exploring your options and applying for coverage if you believe you may be eligible.