How to Apply for Maryland Medicaid
Updated August 2026
The Maryland Department of Health and the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange accept Medicaid applications through several channels. Maryland Health Connection (the state's exchange portal) handles both Medicaid and marketplace plan determinations — a single application covers all options.
SSI recipients are automatically enrolled — no application needed
Marylanders who receive SSI from Social Security are automatically eligible for Maryland Medicaid. They do not need to apply separately. If you receive SSI but are not receiving Medicaid, contact the Maryland Department of Health at 1-855-642-8572 to verify your enrollment status.
How to apply for Maryland Medicaid
- Online — Maryland Health Connection: Apply at marylandhealthconnection.gov. Available 24/7. Create an account, submit your application, check your eligibility determination, and renew coverage — all in one place.
- By phone — 1-855-642-8572: Call 1-855-642-8572 (Maryland Health Connection) to apply by phone or get help. TTY: 1-855-905-3004. Interpreter services are available. The phone line operates Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
- In person — Department of Social Services: Apply in person at your local Maryland Department of Human Services office. Local DHS offices can process applications, verify documents, and assist with complex household situations. Find offices at dhs.maryland.gov/local-offices.
- Via a certified assister or broker: Maryland Health Connection trains certified application assisters (navigators and brokers) who help at no charge. Find an assister through Maryland Health Connection or by calling 1-855-642-8572.
- Seniors and people who are blind or disabled: Applicants who are 65+, blind, or disabled apply through a separate portal at marylandbenefits.gov instead of Maryland Health Connection, or by mailing a completed form to their local Department of Social Services.
What you need to apply
Maryland verifies identity, residency, income, and citizenship or immigration status. Per the Maryland Department of Health's application guidance, gather:
- Full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number for each applicant
- Proof of Maryland residency — recent utility bill, bank statement, lease, or official mail at your address
- Income documentation — pay stubs from the past 30 days, employer letter, or most recent tax return if self-employed
- Immigration documents for non-citizen applicants (green card, I-94, visa, work authorization)
- Current health insurance information for anyone in the household already covered
- For seniors or people with disabilities applying for long-term care: additional medical documentation and financial records may be required
Processing times and when coverage starts
Under 42 CFR 435.912, Maryland must decide most Medicaid applications within 45 days. Disability-based applications can take up to 90 days. If you do not receive a decision within 45 days, contact the Maryland Department of Health at the Medical Assistance phone numbers listed on your application receipt.
Coverage typically starts the first day of the month you applied, if approved. Pregnant women may receive retroactive coverage going back up to three months prior to the application date. After approval, you will be enrolled in a HealthChoice MCO — you can then choose or change your plan within the selection window.
Maryland Medicaid
Visit the official Maryland Medicaid websiteRelated guides
How to Apply
A step-by-step walkthrough of the application process and what you'll need.
Read more →Eligibility Requirements
The income, household, age, and state rules that determine who qualifies.
Read more →Approval Time
Federal processing deadlines and what affects your approval timeline.
Read more →