How to Apply for Medicaid in Arizona: Your Guide to AHCCCS

If you live in Arizona and need help paying for healthcare, you may qualify for AHCCCS—the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System. This is Arizona’s Medicaid program, offering free or low-cost coverage for eligible individuals and families. Here’s how to apply and what to expect.

What Is AHCCCS?

AHCCCS provides coverage for:

• Doctor visits and hospital care

• Prescription medications

• Mental health and substance use treatment

• Dental and vision care

• Long-term care and home health services

  
  

Note: You can apply any time of year—there’s no open enrollment period.

Who Can Qualify?

Eligibility is based on:

• Income and household size

• Age and disability status

• Pregnancy or parenting status

• Citizenship or immigration status

  
  

Arizona also offers KidsCare, a low-cost health coverage option for children whose families earn too much to qualify for Medicaid.

How to Apply

You can apply for AHCCCS in three main ways:

1. Online

Use the Health-e-Arizona Plus portal. You’ll need to create an account and submit documents like:

• Proof of income

• Social Security numbers

• ID or immigration documents

  
  

2. By Phone

Call the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) at 1-855-432-7587 for help applying or to request a paper application.

3. In Person

Visit a local DES office or community partner site for in-person assistance. You can find locations here: DES Office Locator

After You Apply

• You’ll receive a decision within 45 days.

• If approved, you’ll get an AHCCCS ID card and may be enrolled in a Managed Care Organization (MCO).

• If denied, you can appeal the decision.