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

Michigan Medicaid Application Guide

Michigan Medicaid · MDHHS-1171

Content verified 2026-07-17T17:43:41.854Z

Program overview

Michigan Medicaid provides comprehensive healthcare coverage for eligible low-income individuals and families through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). The program includes traditional Medicaid, the Healthy Michigan Plan (Medicaid expansion), MIChild for children, and specialized programs for pregnant women and individuals with disabilities. Coverage includes doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, mental health services, dental care, and long-term care services.

To qualify for Michigan Medicaid, applicants must meet income and asset requirements that vary by program category. The Healthy Michigan Plan covers adults aged 19-64 with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, while traditional Medicaid serves children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and individuals with disabilities. There are no asset limits for most Medicaid programs, though long-term care Medicaid has a $3,000 asset limit for individuals. Michigan residents must be U.S. citizens or qualified immigrants and provide proof of identity and residency.

The application process can be completed online through MI Bridges, by mail using paper forms, or in person at local MDHHS offices. Online applications are processed faster than paper applications. After submitting an application, applicants typically receive a decision within 45-90 days, depending on the program. Emergency Medicaid may be available immediately for urgent medical needs while regular applications are being processed.

Applicants should be prepared to provide comprehensive documentation including proof of income, assets, identity, citizenship, and household composition. MDHHS may request additional verification documents during the application review process. It's important to report any changes in income, family size, or other circumstances that could affect eligibility. Free application assistance is available through community partners, local health departments, and MDHHS customer service representatives.

Main application form

Assistance Application

Form MDHHS-1171

Download form

Additional forms

  • Application for Health Coverage & Help Paying Costs · DCH-1426

    Specific form for healthcare coverage applications including Medicaid programs

    Download form →

Where to submit

Submit completed applications to your local Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) office, apply online through MI Bridges at newmibridges.michigan.gov, or mail to your county MDHHS office.

Watch the guide

▼ Read the script
Michigan Medicaid provides healthcare coverage for eligible low-income residents through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. You can apply three ways: online at MI Bridges dot michigan dot gov, which is fastest; by completing paper forms MDHHS-1171 or DCH-1426 and submitting to your local office; or by visiting an MDHHS office in person. Income limits vary by program - the Healthy Michigan Plan covers adults up to 138% of poverty level, while traditional Medicaid serves children, pregnant women, elderly, and disabled individuals. Required documents include ID, Social Security cards, proof of income and assets, citizenship documents, and household information. Applications are typically processed within 45 to 90 days. Free help is available by calling the Michigan Healthcare Helpline at 855-789-5610. Don't delay applying if you need healthcare coverage - you may qualify for emergency Medicaid while your application is being reviewed.

Official resources

Related guides

Alabama

medicaid

Alaska

medicaid

Arizona

medicaid

Arkansas

medicaid

California

medicaid

Connecticut

medicaid

Frequently asked questions

How do I apply for Michigan Medicaid in Michigan?

To apply for Michigan Medicaid in Michigan, complete Assistance Application (MDHHS-1171), then submit it to Submit completed applications to your local Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) office, apply online through MI Bridges at newmibridges.michigan.gov, or mail to your county MDHHS office..

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

You typically need to provide: Photo identification (driver's license or state ID), Social Security card or proof of Social Security number, Proof of citizenship or legal residency status, Birth certificate for each family member applying, Proof of current income (pay stubs, benefit statements, tax returns), Bank statements and financial account information, Property and asset documentation (vehicle titles, real estate documents), Health insurance cards (current or previous coverage), Medical bills and healthcare expenses documentation, Disability determination letters (if applicable), Proof of pregnancy (if applicable), Utility bills and rent/mortgage statements showing residence.

Where do I submit my Michigan Medicaid application in Michigan?

Submit your completed Michigan Medicaid application to Submit completed applications to your local Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) office, apply online through MI Bridges at newmibridges.michigan.gov, or mail to your county MDHHS office..

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.