Skip to main content
families.care logofamilies.care
families.care

Iowa Medicaid Application Guide: How to Apply for Health Coverage

Iowa Medicaid · 470-5170

Content verified 2026-07-17T17:22:04.898Z

Program overview

Iowa Medicaid is a joint federal and state government program that pays for medical care for some low-income and medically needy individuals and families. Members can apply online through the HHS Benefits Portal or with a downloadable paper application form. The program provides comprehensive healthcare coverage including medical services, prescription drugs, and long-term care services for eligible Iowa residents.

Low or no cost health care for Iowans between the ages of 19 and 64. Eligibility is based on household income. For the state of Iowa, adults who are under the age of 65 and have incomes 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL) or lower are eligible for Medicaid. For children under age one, Medicaid eligibility is possible so long as the family doesn't make more than 220% of the FPL. Pregnant women, people with disabilities, and those requiring long-term care may also qualify regardless of age.

Most Medicaid members will work through Iowa Health Link, our managed care program. Dental benefits for most Iowa Medicaid members are provided through our Dental Wellness Plans. Medical, social and supportive services for Iowans with functional, cognitive and other physical or mental health needs. The program covers doctor visits, hospital stays, preventive care, mental health services, and prescription medications.

Applicants should be prepared to provide comprehensive documentation of income, assets, and household composition. It can take up to 45 days to process an application. If you receive RFIs in the mail respond to HHS with the requested information by the given due date to ensure your application is processed. Iowa has estate recovery requirements for certain Medicaid recipients, particularly those over 55 or receiving long-term care services.

Main application form

Application for Health Coverage and Help Paying Costs

Form 470-5170

Download form

Additional forms

  • Spanish Application for Health Coverage and Help Paying Costs · 470-5170(S)

    Spanish version of the main Medicaid application form

    Download form →

  • Addendum to Application and Review Forms · Comm. 233

    Optional release form to help HHS get needed information without additional signature requirements

Where to submit

Mail your completed application to: Imaging Center 4 PO Box 2027 Cedar Rapids, IA 52406 or email it to imaginingcenter4@dhs.state.ia.us or fax it to 515-564-4016.

Watch the guide

▼ Read the script
Applying for Iowa Medicaid is straightforward with the right information. Iowa Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income individuals and families, including adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level. You can apply online through the Iowa HHS Benefits Portal at hhsservices.iowa.gov, which is the fastest method. Alternatively, download form 470-5170, the Application for Health Coverage and Help Paying Costs, from the official Iowa HHS website. You'll need Social Security numbers, proof of income like pay stubs, bank statements, and citizenship documents. Mail completed applications to Imaging Center 4, PO Box 2027, Cedar Rapids, IA 52406, or submit electronically. Processing takes up to 45 days, and you'll receive a Notice of Action with the decision. For assistance, call 1-855-889-7985 or visit your local Iowa HHS office. Don't delay - healthcare coverage could start as soon as next month.

Official resources

Related guides

Alabama

medicaid

Alaska

medicaid

Arizona

medicaid

Arkansas

medicaid

California

medicaid

Connecticut

medicaid

Frequently asked questions

How do I apply for Iowa Medicaid in Iowa?

To apply for Iowa Medicaid in Iowa, complete Application for Health Coverage and Help Paying Costs (470-5170), then submit it to Mail your completed application to: Imaging Center 4 PO Box 2027 Cedar Rapids, IA 52406 or email it to imaginingcenter4@dhs.state.ia.us or fax it to 515-564-4016..

What documents do I need to apply for Iowa Medicaid in Iowa?

You typically need to provide: Social Security numbers for all household members applying, Birth certificates or other proof of age, Proof of U.S. citizenship or immigration status, Recent pay stubs or employment verification, Bank statements and other financial account information, Property ownership documents if applicable, Current health insurance cards or coverage information, Income tax returns or W-2 forms, Unemployment benefits documentation if applicable, Child support or alimony documentation, Disability or retirement benefit statements, Medical bills or expenses documentation if seeking long-term care coverage.

Where do I submit my Iowa Medicaid application in Iowa?

Submit your completed Iowa Medicaid application to Mail your completed application to: Imaging Center 4 PO Box 2027 Cedar Rapids, IA 52406 or email it to imaginingcenter4@dhs.state.ia.us or fax it to 515-564-4016..

How we research and verify this information

Our team compiles this listing from public records and provider data, and reviews it against authoritative sources. Read our editorial standards and research methodology.