How to Apply for Nebraska Medicaid
Updated August 2026
Nebraska DHHS accepts applications through the iServe Nebraska online portal, by phone, in person at a local DHHS office, or by mail using a paper application. Online through iServe Nebraska is the fastest method and allows document uploads, status checks, and paperless correspondence.
iServe Nebraska replaces ACCESSNebraska
Nebraska DHHS now processes Medicaid applications through the iServe Nebraska Portal at iserve.nebraska.gov/apply/start. The old ACCESSNebraska system is being phased out; iServe Nebraska handles applications, renewals, benefit views, and change reports. The DHHS phone line at 855-632-7633 remains active for assistance.
How to apply for Nebraska Medicaid
- Online — iServe Nebraska: Apply at iserve.nebraska.gov/apply/start. Create an account, submit your application, check status, and manage benefits. Available 24/7. Upload documents and receive paperless notifications about your case.
- By phone — 855-632-7633: Call Nebraska DHHS at 855-632-7633 (outside Omaha/Lincoln), 402-473-7000 (Lincoln), or 402-595-1178 (Omaha). Customer service hours are Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Automated benefit inquiry available 24/7.
- In person — DHHS local office: Visit a Nebraska DHHS local Public Assistance office. Most offices have kiosks and phones you can use to apply. Staff can assist with paper applications and document verification.
- By mail — paper application: Download and print a paper application from dhhs.ne.gov and mail it to your local DHHS office. This is the slowest method. Keep copies of everything you submit and use certified mail for tracking.
What you need to apply for Nebraska Medicaid
Nebraska DHHS verifies identity, residency, income, and citizenship or immigration status. Gather these documents before starting your application to avoid delays.
- Full legal name and date of birth for each household member applying
- Social Security numbers for all applicants (required for most eligibility categories)
- Proof of Nebraska residency — utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or official mail with current address
- Income verification — recent pay stubs (last 30 days), employer letter, or prior year tax return if self-employed
- Immigration documents for non-citizen applicants — green card, work authorization, or visa
- Current health insurance information if any household member has existing coverage
- For long-term care applications: medical documentation supporting the need for nursing-level care
How long does a Nebraska Medicaid application take?
Under federal regulations (42 CFR 435.912), Nebraska must process most Medicaid applications within 45 days. Applications based on disability take up to 90 days because a medical review is required in addition to financial eligibility screening.
If approved, coverage typically starts on the first day of the month the application was submitted — not the approval date. Pregnant women may receive retroactive coverage for up to three months before the application date.
Check your application status anytime in your iServe Nebraska account. Set up email or text notifications to receive alerts when your application is processed or when DHHS needs additional documents.
Once DHHS approves your Nebraska Medicaid application, you will receive a letter giving you a window to choose a Heritage Health managed care plan — United Healthcare Community Plan, Nebraska Total Care, or Molina Healthcare of Nebraska. If you do not choose within the enrollment period, DHHS will assign one for you. You can generally switch plans during an annual open enrollment period or for good cause at other times.
Nebraska Medicaid
Visit the official Nebraska 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 →