Idaho Medicaid (Expanded Coverage)
Last updated August 2026
Idaho Medicaid is free or low-cost health coverage. It serves children, pregnant people, parents, seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income adults. Each group has its own pathway, so apply even if you were denied before. You apply online through idalink.idaho.gov, Idaho's portal for health care, food, and other help.
Idaho did expand Medicaid, which surprises some people. Idaho voters approved expansion in 2018 through Proposition 2. Coverage for the expansion group began in January 2020. Expansion covers adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level who are not eligible for Medicare or other Medicaid. So a single adult with no children can be covered, which was not always true here.
There is a major change coming, so plan for it now. Beginning January 1, 2027, expansion enrollees must work, volunteer, or be in school for 80 hours a month to keep coverage. Earning at least $580 per month also meets the requirement. Keep records of your hours and pay so you can show them.
New applicants will face the same rule from 2027. Starting then, a new applicant must show they earned $580 or completed 80 hours of qualifying activities in each of the three months before applying. Keep your notices and update your contact information so the state can reach you about these dates.
The rule has an important exemption. People who are already meeting SNAP or TANF work requirements are excluded from the new Medicaid work requirement. If you get SNAP food benefits or TAFI cash assistance and meet those rules, the Medicaid hours rule should not add a new burden for you.
Apply through idalink, the same portal used for SNAP, TAFI, and child care help. While your application is reviewed, you can dial 2-1-1 for the Idaho CareLine to find a nearby community health center or clinic.
Phone 1-877-456-1233
Help available in English and Spanish.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Idaho residents who meet the income rules for their group; expansion covers adults 19 to 64 with income up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level who are not eligible for Medicare or other Medicaid
- Children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities each have their own pathway, so apply even if you were denied before
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply online at idalink.idaho.gov, the state portal for health care and other help.
- 2
Have proof of identity, income, and Idaho residency ready.
- 3
If you are an adult 19 to 64, check that your income is at or below 138 percent of the federal poverty level.
- 4
Watch for notices about the work requirement that begins January 1, 2027.
- 5
If you already meet SNAP or TANF work rules, note that, because it can exempt you.
What to have ready
- Photo ID and Social Security numbers for those applying
- Proof of your household income
- Proof of Idaho residency
- Immigration or citizenship documents where they apply. The office confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
Who qualifies for Idaho Medicaid expansion?
Adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level who are not eligible for Medicare or other Medicaid. Idaho voters approved expansion in 2018.
What is the coming work requirement?
Beginning January 1, 2027, expansion enrollees must work, volunteer, or be in school for 80 hours a month, or earn at least $580 per month, to keep coverage.
Who is exempt from the work requirement?
People who are already meeting SNAP or TANF work requirements are excluded from the new Medicaid work requirement.
How do I apply?
Apply online at idalink.idaho.gov, the same portal used for SNAP, TAFI, and child care help.
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