How to Apply for MaineCare (Maine Medicaid)

MaineCare is Maine's Medicaid program, providing free or low-cost health coverage to eligible residents. This guide walks you through eligibility, income limits, how to apply, and what MaineCare covers.

What Is MaineCare?

MaineCare is Maine's version of the federal Medicaid program. It provides health insurance to low-income children, parents, pregnant women, seniors, and adults. Maine expanded Medicaid in 2019, so adults without children can also qualify if their income is below 138% of the federal poverty level.

Income Limits (Monthly)

Your household income must be at or below these amounts to qualify. Limits vary by category:

Household Size Children Adults Pregnant
1$4,057$1,836$2,847
2$5,501$2,490$3,830
3$6,944$3,142$4,873
4$8,388$3,796$5,886

How to Apply

There are five ways to apply for MaineCare:

  1. Online: Apply at mymaineconnection.gov. You can submit your application 24/7 and check your status online.
  2. Phone: Call the OFI Helpline at 1-855-797-4357 (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm).
  3. Mail: Download an application from mymaineconnection.gov and mail it to your local DHHS office.
  4. Email: Send a completed application to [email protected].
  5. In person: Visit your local DHHS office. Find locations at maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/offices.

Required Documents

Gather these before you apply to speed up processing:

  • Proof of identity (driver's license, state ID, birth certificate)
  • Social Security numbers for all household members
  • Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, employer letter)
  • Proof of Maine residency (utility bill, lease, mail with your address)
  • Proof of citizenship or immigration status
  • Information about current health insurance (if any)
  • Proof of pregnancy (if applicable)
  • Disability documentation (if applicable)

Processing Timeline

Standard applications: 45 days
Disability-based applications: up to 90 days

You can check your application status anytime at mymaineconnection.gov or by calling 1-855-797-4357.

What MaineCare Covers

  • Doctor visits and preventive care
  • Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
  • Prescription drugs
  • Mental health and substance use treatment
  • Dental care
  • Vision care and eyeglasses
  • Lab tests and X-rays
  • Durable medical equipment
  • Home health services
  • Nursing facility care
  • Transportation to medical appointments
  • Family planning services
  • Rehabilitation services

Key Phone Numbers

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