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How to Apply for Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid Program)

Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid Program) · 1024

Content verified 2026-07-17T00:00:00.000Z

Program overview

Health First Colorado is Colorado's Medicaid program that provides low-cost health coverage for Colorado children and adults who qualify. The Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) oversees Health First Colorado and Child Health Plan Plus. Unlike many health insurance programs, Coloradans can sign up for Health First Colorado any time during the year if they qualify. There is no open enrollment period for Health First Colorado during the year.

To qualify for Health First Colorado, applicants must meet specific income and residency requirements. Coloradans who meet specific monthly income requirements can get insurance through Health First Colorado. The program serves various populations including children, pregnant women, families with dependent children, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities. Applicants who are not a U.S. citizen, or a legal resident for at least 5 years, may be able to receive full Medicaid benefits. They also may qualify for Emergency Medicaid and/or Reproductive Benefits. Emergency Medicaid and Reproductive Benefits can cover life-threatening emergencies, labor and delivery for pregnant people, and birth control.

Health First Colorado provides comprehensive healthcare coverage including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications, preventive services, mental health services, and dental care. For some services, you may have a co-pay. A co-pay is a fixed amount you pay when you get a covered health care service. You never have to pay more than the co-pay for covered services. The program also includes specialized services like Community First Choice for eligible members who need long-term care services.

When applying, it's crucial to provide accurate information and complete documentation. It may take up to 45 days or up to 90 days if the application requires a disability determination from the date your application was received for a case number to be assigned to you. If you apply online through PEAK you may find out if you qualify immediately. If you apply by mail, it may take up to 45 days to find out if you qualify. Applicants should be prepared to provide detailed financial information, as Colorado uses various verification systems to confirm eligibility and may require additional documentation during the review process.

Main application form

Application for Public Assistance Colorado

Form 1024

Additional forms

  • Medicaid Disability Application ·

    Required for applicants claiming disability for Health First Colorado benefits

Where to submit

Submit a completed paper application to your local Department of Human Services via mail, drop-off/hand deliver, or fax. Applications can also be submitted online through Colorado PEAK.

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Applying for Health First Colorado, Colorado's Medicaid program, can provide you and your family with essential healthcare coverage. You can apply online through Colorado PEAK at colorado.gov/peak - this is the fastest way and most people find out immediately if they qualify. You can also apply by phone at 1-800-221-3943, by mail, or at your local county office. You'll need the Application for Public Assistance form number 1024, plus documents like Social Security cards, birth certificates, proof of income, and Colorado residency verification. Health First Colorado covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and preventive services with low or no co-pays. Unlike other insurance, you can apply any time of year - there's no enrollment period. Processing typically takes up to 45 days, or 90 days if disability determination is needed. Get started today at colorado.gov/peak or call the Member Contact Center for help with your application.

Official resources

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Frequently asked questions

How do I apply for Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid Program) in Colorado?

To apply for Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid Program) in Colorado, complete Application for Public Assistance Colorado (1024), then submit it to Submit a completed paper application to your local Department of Human Services via mail, drop-off/hand deliver, or fax. Applications can also be submitted online through Colorado PEAK..

What documents do I need to apply for Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid Program) in Colorado?

You typically need to provide: Social Security cards for all household members, Birth certificates for all household members, Proof of Colorado residency (utility bills, lease agreements), Recent pay stubs or income statements (2-4 weeks), Tax returns (most recent year), Bank statements (all accounts, past 3 months), Immigration/citizenship documents (if applicable), Verification of child support payments (if applicable), Disability documentation (if claiming disability), Medical insurance cards (current coverage), Property deeds or rent receipts, Vehicle registration and title information.

Where do I submit my Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid Program) application in Colorado?

Submit your completed Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid Program) application to Submit a completed paper application to your local Department of Human Services via mail, drop-off/hand deliver, or fax. Applications can also be submitted online through Colorado PEAK..

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