How to Apply for West Virginia Medicaid
Updated August 2026
West Virginia DoHS processes Medicaid applications through WVPATH at wvpath.wv.gov. WVPATH handles applications, renewals, benefit views, and change reports for Medicaid and WVCHIP. For help, call BMS at 1-877-716-1212 or find a local DoHS field office at dohs.wv.gov/field-offices.
How to apply for West Virginia Medicaid
West Virginia DoHS accepts Medicaid applications through WVPATH online, by phone, in person at a local field office, or through a community-based assister. Online through WVPATH is fastest and allows paperless correspondence and document uploads.
- Online — WVPATH: Apply at wvpath.wv.gov 24/7. Create an account to submit your application, check status, manage benefits, report changes, and complete renewals. Upload documents directly through the portal.
- By phone — 1-877-716-1212: Call West Virginia BMS at 1-877-716-1212 to apply or get help with your application. Representatives can walk you through the eligibility process and connect you with your nearest DoHS field office.
- In person — DoHS field office: Visit a West Virginia Department of Human Services field office in your county. Find field office locations at dohs.wv.gov/field-offices. BMS's main office is at 350 Capitol Street, Room 251, Charleston, WV 25301.
- Through a community assister: Community Health Workers, navigators, and social service organizations across West Virginia can help you apply. Many rural counties have dedicated Medicaid application assistance programs. Ask at your local community health center or hospital social work department.
What you need to apply for West Virginia Medicaid
West Virginia DoHS verifies identity, state residency, income, and Social Security number for applicants. Have the following ready before starting.
- Full legal name and date of birth for each household member applying
- Social Security numbers for all applicants
- Proof of West Virginia residency — utility bill, lease, bank statement, or official mail
- Income documentation — recent pay stubs, employer letter, or prior year tax return if self-employed
- Immigration documents for non-citizen applicants
- Current health insurance information for any household member already covered
- For long-term care or disability applications: medical records supporting level-of-care need
How long does a West Virginia Medicaid application take?
Federal regulations (42 CFR 435.912) require West Virginia to process most Medicaid applications within 45 days. Applications involving a disability determination can take up to 90 days.
If approved, coverage typically starts on the first day of the month the application was submitted. Track your application status through WVPATH or call 1-877-716-1212.
West Virginia Medicaid
Visit the official West Virginia 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 →