How to Apply for Medicaid in Missouri: Your Guide to MO HealthNet

If you live in Missouri and need help paying for healthcare, the state's Medicaid program, MO HealthNet, may be able to help. Medicaid is a state and federally funded program that offers free or low-cost coverage for eligible individuals and families that includes children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities.

It covers a broad set of services designed to prevent illness, treat medical conditions, and support overall health. Medicaid also covers long-term care including nursing homes, personal care, and home care. Learn how to apply and what to expect from the program.

Medicaid Benefits in Missouri

MO HealthNet covers a wide range of services and benefits. Some of the benefits you would be eligible for are:  

1. Doctor visits and hospital care: Missouri Medicaid covers preventive care, specialist visits, and hospital stays. It could include laboratory tests, X-rays, and diagnostics.  

2. Prescription medications: Most FDA-approved prescription drugs that are medically necessary are covered.

3. Mental health and substance use treatment: A lesser-known benefits are behavioral health services and substance use disorder treatments are covered under Medicaid. Therapy, counselling, and treatment services are covered according to your case.

4. Dental and vision care: For eligible groups, Medicaid can cover routine dental exams, cleanings, and dental procedures and vision exams and glasses.

5. Long-term care and home health services: It also includes personal care, nursing home care, and home-based support to help older adults and people with disabilities stay in their homes. Self-directed care programs like the CDS program allow you to hire a family member or a trusted person to care for you and help with daily living activities.  

   
   

Who Can Qualify?

Eligibility is based on several factors. According to the state, you may be eligible if you meet conditions in one or more of these areas:

1. Residency and Immigration Status: You must live in New York State and be a U.S. citizen or a ‘lawfully present’ immigrant. Non-citizens may qualify for emergency coverage however the rules may vary.

2. Income and household size: Adults between the age of 19-24 with low income can qualify based on income alone. Missouri expanded Medicaid in 2021, so more adults under age 65 may now qualify based on income alone.

3. Special groups: Children and teens, pregnant people, adults (19-64) under Medicaid expansion have different income rules where only income and household size is considered and mostly have no asset limits.

4. Asset/Resource Limits: Other than income, your assets like stock, bank accounts, retirement accounts are counted. Household goods, primary home, and one vehicle are not counted.

How to Apply for Medicaid in Missouri?

You typically need to provide documentation that proves your identity, income, residency, and other assets when applying for Missouri Medicaid. You can apply at any time of the year since there are no open enrollment period or deadlines.

There are three ways to apply for Medicaid in which you can choose based on your convenience.

1. Online

You can use the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) online portal. You’ll need to create an account and submit documents for verification. You will get all the updates and communications through this portal.

You'll need to create an account and provide:

• Application form

• Proof of identity

• Proof of Missouri Residency

• Proof of income and assets

• Social Security numbers

• ID or immigration documents

Note: You can also scan and upload your application using the FSD Upload Portal if you prefer digital submission.

2. By Phone

If you have difficulty navigating an online portal, another convenient option is to apply by phone. Call the Family Support Division (FSD) at 855-373-9994 to apply or ask questions.

3. By Mail

You can also download and print the application form. Complete the paper application and mail it to:

Family Support Division

615 E. 13th St. Kansas City, MO 64106

4. Through Your Local Family Support Division Resource Center

If you would prefer to complete the application process in person, you can visit the nearest Family Support Division Resource Center. Find your local FSD Resource Center here: Medicaid Application Info

They can help you submit forms, provide eligibility guidance, and process more complex Medicaid applications (like long-term care or spend-down programs).

After You Apply

You should receive a decision within about 45 days. If disability is involved, processing may take longer.

If approved, you’ll get a MO HealthNet ID card. Many people are also enrolled in a Managed Care Organization (MCO) for coordinated care. You’ll receive information about your plan and how to use your benefits. If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

Need Help Applying?

If you have questions about your case or need general information, you can ask them on DSS chat on the official DSS website. You can also call on 855-373-4636.

You can also contact us and our team on 833-447-3326 and we will be happy to guide you through the process. Health coverage is always possible, so apply today and take the first step towards taking control of your healthcare.