How to Apply for Hawaii Medicaid (Med-QUEST) - Complete Guide
Hawaii Medicaid (Med-QUEST) · DHS 1100
Content verified 2026-07-17T17:22:00.362Z
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
Hawaii's Medicaid program, called Med-QUEST (Quality care, Universal access, Efficient utilization, Stabilizing costs, and Transforming the way health care is provided to recipients), is administered by the state's Department of Human Services and provides comprehensive healthcare coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families. The program operates through managed care organizations including AlohaCare, HMSA, Kaiser Permanente, 'Ohana Health Plan, and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan.
Adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level (approximately $2,111 monthly for one person) may qualify for Med-QUEST. Eligible categories include children under 18, pregnant women, parents and caretaker relatives, adults 65 and older, blind individuals, disabled people, and low-income adults. Asset limits are $2,000 for households of one, $3,000 for households of two, with pregnant women and children under 19 exempt from asset requirements.
Med-QUEST covers doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, mental health services, dental care for children, vision care, and preventive services. There is no charge for Medicaid benefits in Hawaii. Children under 6 don't need yearly renewals, children 6-19 renew every two years, and adults typically renew annually.
Most applications are processed within 45 days, with disability cases taking up to 90 days. The fastest application method is online through the KOLEA portal at medical.mybenefits.hawaii.gov. Applicants should have all required documentation ready and watch for pink envelopes with important renewal instructions. After approval, beneficiaries must choose from five health plans within the specified timeframe.
Main application form
Application For Health Coverage & Help Paying Costs
Form DHS 1100
Additional forms
Supplemental Form for Coverage Based on Age, Blindness, Disability or Long-Term Care · DHS 1100B
Required for applicants seeking coverage based on age (65+), blindness, disability, or long-term care services
Download form →Long-Term Care Assessment Forms · DHS 1167, DHS 1169, DHS 1169A, DHS 8003, DHS 8004
Additional forms required for applicants needing long-term care services
Disability Assessment Forms · DHS 1127, DHS 1128
Required for applicants with disabilities
