How to Apply for New Jersey Medicaid
Updated August 2026
NJHelps.gov is the state's primary online portal for NJ FamilyCare. One application covers your entire household and automatically screens for all coverage categories — Medicaid, CHIP-funded children's coverage, and other state assistance programs. You'll get an eligibility determination faster online than by mail.
Four ways to apply for NJ FamilyCare
- Online — NJHelps.gov: Available 24/7. Fastest path to a decision. Also screens for food assistance and other programs in the same application.
- Phone — 1-800-701-0710: NJ FamilyCare hotline. Representatives can take your application by phone or guide you through NJHelps.gov.
- In person — County Board of Social Services: All 21 NJ counties have a Board of Social Services that accepts walk-in and scheduled applications. Staff can help complete the form.
- Mail — paper application: Download a paper application from DMAHS, complete it, and mail to your county Board of Social Services. Slowest method — processing begins when the county receives it.
GetCoveredNJ — another entry point
If you're shopping for health coverage through New Jersey's ACA marketplace (GetCoveredNJ), the system will automatically route you to NJ FamilyCare if your income qualifies. You don't need to apply separately. This is particularly useful for families whose income may fall near the Medicaid/marketplace cutoff — the system determines which program fits.
Documents you'll need
Gather these before you start. Having them ready speeds up the process and avoids delays from missing verification.
- Proof of identity (driver's license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate)
- Proof of New Jersey residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or mail with your address)
- Social Security numbers for all household members applying
- Proof of income: recent pay stubs, employer letter, or self-employment records
- Tax returns or W-2s if available (helps verify annual income)
- Immigration documents if applicable (green card, visa, or work permit)
- Health insurance information for any current coverage
You can submit documents electronically through NJHelps.gov, by fax, or in person. Don't delay applying because you're missing a document — you can submit verifications after the application is received.
How long does processing take?
Federal regulations under 42 CFR 435.912 require states to process most Medicaid applications within 45 days. Applications based on disability take up to 90 days. NJ FamilyCare follows these timelines.
If approved, coverage is effective the first day of the month in which you applied — not the approval date. That means applying early in the month maximizes the coverage period. Retroactive coverage for up to three months prior may be available in certain circumstances; ask DMAHS or your county office.
After you're approved
You'll receive a notice listing your NJ FamilyCare managed care plan options. Choose an MCO — Aetna Better Health of NJ, Fidelis Care, Horizon NJ Health, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of NJ, or Wellpoint — based on availability in your county. If you don't choose within the allotted time, a plan is assigned. You can switch plans during open enrollment periods.
Your MCO card arrives by mail. Use your MCO's provider directory to find doctors and dentists who accept NJ FamilyCare before your first appointment.
NJ FamilyCare (New Jersey Medicaid)
Visit the official New Jersey 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 →