Medicaid

Medicaid is a federal program that helps pay medical costs for people struggling with their health care expenses. Medicaid does not send money directly to patients, it pays the people providing the health care.

Medicaid Eligibility

Even if you have checked your eligibility before, or if you don't think you're eligible, it's worth checking. Medicaid has different types of programs and eligibility rules have changed over time. You can use the ODJFS website to check if you're eligible for Medicaid.

There are different Medicaid programs in Ohio that cover different groups. These groups include: 

• low-income people between the age of 18 - 64
• children
• pregnant women
• parents of covered children
• people with disabilities
• elderly people needing nursing home care
• some military families can obtain Medicaid to supplement TRICARE

There is also a maximum amount that you can earn in order to qualify. Sometimes a child may be eligible for Medicaid even if the child's parents are not.  

How to apply for Medicaid

To apply for Medicaid, you will need:

• proof of identity, like a photo id, birth certificate or passport
• Social Security card, or proof that you have applied for one 
• proof of your immigration status if you are not a citizen
• documents showing all income sources, like pay stubs or your SSI award letter, and your assets, like bank statements and your car title
• proof of any child support that you pay
• proof of your housing and utility costs
• proof of disability if that's why you're applying, like a letter from your doctor

Submit the application for cash, food or medical assistance form to your county's Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS). You can also apply online at the ODJFS website, or by phone at 1-800-324-8680. If you think you might be eligible for other benefits, like food or cash assistance, it might be easiest to go to your county's DJFS office in-person.