Iowa Medicaid: Eligibility & How to Apply
Last updated: June 2026
Medicaid in Iowa is administered by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. It provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families, including children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities.
What is Medicaid in Iowa?
Medicaid is a joint federal and state health-coverage program run locally by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. It covers services such as doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, preventive care, and more. Coverage and covered services follow both federal rules and Iowa-specific policies.
Who is eligible?
Eligibility is based primarily on household income measured against the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), using Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) for most groups. Income limits vary by household size and by category — children, pregnant women, parents, adults, seniors, and people with disabilities each have their own thresholds. Because limits vary by state and group, check the official Iowa source below for the current figures that apply to your situation.
What does Medicaid cover?
- Doctor and clinic visits
- Hospital and emergency care
- Prescription medications
- Preventive and wellness care
- Maternity and newborn care
- Behavioral health and many long-term care services
How to apply
You can apply online, by phone at 1-800-338-8366, or by mail/in person at a local office. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services reviews your application and income information to determine eligibility. You can also apply through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov, which will route Medicaid-eligible applicants to the state.
Check your benefits in minutes
Benefit Guardian helps you track and maximize the benefits you qualify for — free.
Get started freeOfficial source
For official details and current income limits, visit the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services and Medicaid.gov.