How to Apply for Massachusetts Medicaid
Updated August 2026
MassHealth accepts applications through several paths depending on the applicant's age and situation. Per EOHHS guidance at mass.gov, most applicants under age 65 apply online or by phone. Seniors and people needing long-term care services use a dedicated enrollment center process.
How to apply for MassHealth in Massachusetts
- Online — MA HIX or MA Login: Apply at mahix.org/individual/ or create an MA Login account at mass.gov. The online application handles MassHealth, ConnectorCare, and the Health Safety Net in one form.
- By phone — MassHealth Customer Service: Call (800) 841-2900 (TTY: 711), Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Representatives can assist with applications, enrollment, and account management. Language interpretation available.
- In person — MassHealth Enrollment Center: MassHealth operates Enrollment Centers throughout Massachusetts where staff assist with applications, document verification, and complex situations. Seniors and people applying for long-term care services must use the Enrollment Center process. Find locations at mass.gov/MassHealth-Enrollment-Centers.
- Schedule an appointment: MassHealth offers scheduled appointments for members who need individualized help. Schedule at mass.gov. Useful for complex cases, seniors, and people with disabilities who need more time.
What you need to apply for MassHealth
MassHealth verifies identity, Massachusetts residency, income, citizenship or immigration status, and household composition. Per EOHHS eligibility regulations, have the following ready before applying.
- Full legal name and date of birth for all household members applying
- Social Security numbers for all applicants who have them
- Proof of Massachusetts residency — utility bill, lease, bank statement, or official mail with current address
- Income documentation — recent pay stubs, employer letter, benefit award letters, or tax return if self-employed
- Immigration documents for non-citizen applicants — green card, visa, I-94, or Employment Authorization Document
- Current health insurance information for anyone in the household with existing coverage
- Medicare card (if applicable) for seniors applying for MassHealth secondary coverage
MassHealth may be able to verify some information electronically. The online portal specifies what additional documents are needed for your household.
How long does a MassHealth application take?
Under 42 CFR 435.912, Massachusetts must process most MassHealth applications within 45 days. Disability-based applications may take up to 90 days. Applications for long-term care services through MassHealth Enrollment Centers may also take longer due to the additional financial and functional assessment required.
Coverage starts on the first of the month you applied, assuming approval. Pregnant individuals may receive retroactive MassHealth coverage going back three months prior to the application date.
Massachusetts has strong automatic renewal infrastructure — many members are renewed without submitting any documentation. Keeping your contact information current at mahix.org is the most important step you can take to avoid any gap in coverage.
MassHealth (Massachusetts Medicaid)
Visit the official Massachusetts 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 →