New York Medicaid · Updated August 22, 2026

How to Apply for Medicaid in New York

Income LimitsEligibilityAsset LimitsHow to ApplyRenewalMedicare Savings ProgramsSeniors & Long-Term Care

You can apply for New York Medicaid any day of the year; there is no open enrollment period. Most applications are decided within 45 days (90 days if a disability determination is needed), and coverage can be backdated up to three months before the month you applied if you were eligible then.

Ways to apply in New York

  1. Online through the state benefits portal or HealthCare.gov, which forwards Medicaid-eligible applications to New York. This is the fastest route.
  2. By phone with the New York State Department of Health or the Marketplace call center (1-800-318-2596).
  3. In person at a county assistance office or through a certified application counselor at many hospitals and community health centers.
  4. By mail using the paper application downloadable from the agency website.

Documents to have ready

  • Social Security numbers for applicants
  • Proof of income: recent pay stubs, tax return, award letters
  • Proof of New York residency: lease, utility bill or ID
  • Proof of citizenship or immigration status (often verified electronically)
  • Current health insurance information, if any
  • For seniors/disabled: bank statements, vehicle titles, life insurance policies

After you apply

You will get a notice by mail or in the portal. If approved, you choose a managed care plan (where applicable) and receive an ID card within a few weeks. If denied, you have the right to a fair hearing; the deadline to request one is printed on the notice, usually 30–90 days.

Official application: Apply for New York Medicaid · Agency: New York State Department of Health

Frequently asked questions

How long does New York Medicaid approval take?
Up to 45 days for most applications and up to 90 days when disability must be determined. Online applications with electronically verified income are often approved in days.
Can I apply for New York Medicaid at any time?
Yes. Medicaid has no enrollment period. Marketplace plans do, but a Medicaid denial creates a special enrollment period.
Does New York Medicaid cover past medical bills?
Retroactive coverage can go back up to three months before your application month if you met the rules then. Some states have limited or waived retroactive coverage; ask when you apply.
Do I need a Social Security number to apply?
Applicants need one (or must have applied for one). Family members who are not applying do not have to provide an SSN.

Sources

Limits are calculated from the federal poverty guidelines using the percentage New York applies to each group, and rounded to the nearest dollar. Your state agency makes the final determination.