How to Apply for Montana Medicaid
Updated August 2026
Montana DPHHS processes Medicaid applications through local Human Services offices statewide. There are county-level DPHHS offices throughout Montana — particularly important in a state where driving distances to services can be substantial. Online and phone options are available for those who cannot easily reach a local office.
How to apply for Montana Medicaid
- Online — apply.mt.gov: Apply online through Montana's public assistance self-service portal at apply.mt.gov. The online application covers Medicaid, Healthy Montana Kids, and other public assistance benefits in one form.
- By phone — 1-888-706-1535: Call the Office of Public Assistance (OPA) Public Assistance Help Line at 1-888-706-1535 to ask about applications and eligibility, or to reach a caseworker who can direct you to your local office. Free interpreter services are available.
- In person — local DPHHS office: Visit your county DPHHS office. Montana has local offices in most counties — find your nearest location at dphhs.mt.gov. In-person applications are useful for complex household situations or when document verification is needed on the spot.
- By mail — paper application: Download a paper application from dphhs.mt.gov and mail to your county DPHHS office. This is the slowest method. Keep copies of everything you submit and consider using certified mail so you have proof of the submission date.
What you need to apply for Montana Medicaid
DPHHS verifies identity, Montana residency, income, and Social Security numbers. Prepare these documents before starting your application.
- Full legal name and date of birth for all household members applying
- Social Security numbers for all applicants
- Proof of Montana residency — utility bill, lease agreement, or official mail with current address
- Income documentation — pay stubs from the past 30 days, self-employment records, or Social Security award letter
- Immigration documents for non-citizen applicants — green card, visa, work authorization
- Current health insurance information for anyone in the household already covered
- For long-term care applications: physician documentation of care needs
How long does a Montana Medicaid application take?
Federal rules (42 CFR 435.912) require Montana to process most Medicaid applications within 45 days. Disability-based applications can take up to 90 days. Coverage generally begins on the first day of the month you applied, if approved.
Pregnant women may qualify for retroactive coverage covering the three months before their application date. If DPHHS requests additional documentation, respond quickly — missing the document deadline can result in denial.
Montana Medicaid
Visit the official Montana 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 →