How to Apply for North Carolina Medicaid
Updated August 2026
NCDHHS accepts applications through four channels. All paths lead to the same eligibility determination — your county Department of Social Services (DSS) makes the final decision regardless of how you apply.
45 days
Processing deadline
ePASS
Apply online (epass.nc.gov)
100 counties
DSS offices statewide
March 1
Coverage starts 1st of apply month
Four ways to apply for NC Medicaid
- Online — ePASS: Apply at epass.nc.gov. Create an account, complete the application, and upload supporting documents. You can save and return if you don't finish in one session. Status updates appear in your ePASS account.
- By phone — 1-888-245-0179: Call the NC Medicaid Contact Center. A representative can walk you through the application or connect you with your county DSS. Available Monday through Friday during business hours.
- In person — county DSS: Visit your local county Department of Social Services. NC has 100 counties, each with its own DSS office. Bring documents with you to speed processing.
- By mail: Download a paper application from NCDHHS, complete it, and mail it to your county DSS office. This is the slowest method and is generally used when online access isn't available.
Documents you'll need
Not every applicant needs every document. The list below covers what NCDHHS commonly requests during eligibility review. Having these ready before you start the ePASS application cuts back on follow-up requests.
- Proof of identity — driver's license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate
- Proof of North Carolina residency — utility bill, lease, or official mail with your current address
- Social Security number for each household member applying
- Proof of income — pay stubs (last 30 days), employer letter, or self-employment records
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status
- Health insurance information if you currently have other coverage
- Tax filing information if applying based on ACA expansion eligibility
Processing times and coverage start date
Under 42 CFR § 435.912, states must process most Medicaid applications within 45 calendar days. Applications based on disability — which require additional review — get up to 90 days. If your county DSS does not act within these timeframes, you have a right to appeal.
If approved, coverage in North Carolina generally starts on the first day of the month in which you applied. That means a complete application submitted on March 15 typically produces coverage retroactive to March 1.
Choosing a health plan after approval
After NC Medicaid approves your application, you'll need to choose a managed care health plan if you're enrolled in Standard or Tailored Plan coverage. NC's enrollment broker — reachable at ncmedicaidplans.gov or by calling 1-833-870-5500 — can explain the difference between the four Standard Plans and help you pick one based on your doctors, pharmacy, and location.
If you don't choose a plan within the enrollment period, NCDHHS assigns you to one automatically. You can switch plans later during the open enrollment window or in certain circumstances (moving, change in health needs).
Need help with your application?
The NC Medicaid Ombudsman provides free, independent assistance to applicants and enrollees. If you're having trouble with your application, a denial, or a coverage dispute, call the Ombudsman at 1-877-201-3750. The Ombudsman can't change eligibility decisions, but can help you understand your options and navigate the appeals process.
NC Medicaid
- Apply online: epass.nc.gov
- Phone: 1-888-245-0179
- Enrollment broker (plan selection): ncmedicaidplans.gov, 1-833-870-5500
- NC Medicaid Ombudsman: 1-877-201-3750
Related 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 →