Arkansas Medicaid Application Guide: Complete Forms & Process
Arkansas Medicaid · DCO-151, DCO-152
Content verified 2026-07-17T00:00:00.000Z
All asset transfers and gifts within 5 years are audited under state lookback statutes.
Primary home equity, one vehicle, and personal effects remain protected under community spouse allowances.
Excess income in income-cap states is redirected into a Qualified Income Trust to preserve qualification.
Program overview
Arkansas Medicaid provides healthcare coverage to eligible low-income individuals, including those with disabilities, through the state's Department of Human Services (DHS). The program offers comprehensive medical services and is administered as part of Arkansas's commitment to ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations across the state.
Adults under age 65 are eligible for Medicaid with household income up to 138% of the poverty level, while infants under one are eligible if their household income is up to 201% of poverty. Eligibility is checked using information from electronic databases including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Social Security, and the Department of Homeland Security. The state also offers specialized programs like ARKids First for children and the Arkansas Works Program for working adults.
Arkansas Medicaid covers nursing home care for individuals who meet both medical needs and financial criteria through Long Term Services and Supports (LTSS). The program provides essential medical services including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications, preventive care, and specialized services. Coverage extends to home and community-based services for those who qualify.
Applicants should be prepared for a thorough eligibility review process and understand that Medicaid applications typically take 3 to 6 months to process, unless a disability determination needs to be made. Help is available by calling 1-855-372-1084, and applications can be submitted online through Access Arkansas, by mail, or in person at local DHS offices statewide.
Main application form
Application for Health Coverage - Single Adults (DCO-151) or Household Health Coverage Application (DCO-152)
Form DCO-151, DCO-152
Additional forms
Additional Household Member · DCO-152C
Required for each additional household member beyond the first two
Consent for Authorized Representative · DCO-153
Required if someone else is helping complete the application
