How to Apply for Medicaid in D.C.

Medicaid is the federally subsidized, state-administered health insurance program for the needy and indigent. First introduced in 1965 as part of President Lyndon Johnson's "Great Society" program, along with Medicare, the Medicaid program is now active in all 50 states and in Washington, D.C. In order to qualify, however, you must meet stringent income and asset limitations. Medicaid is designed to be a program of last resort for the poor. You may need to be impoverished before you can qualify for Medicaid benefits.

Instructions

• 1

  Download the District of Columbia's Combined Application for Medical Assistance, Food Stamps and Cash Assistance For the Disabled and Children with Families. You can do this via the Department of Human Services website (see Resources).

• 2

  Compile information on your income and assets. You will need to declare all assets held in your name, including cash on hand and in the bank, the surrender value of permanent life insurance, real estate and other property. You must also disclose any substantial gifts you have made in the last three years, as gifts made during this period of time can still count against you for the purposes of determining eligibility for Medicaid. You will also need to disclose your income from work and from any other source.

• 3

  Make a copy of your insurance card, if you have private medical insurance and any recent or unpaid medical bills.

• 4

  Submit the application to the Department of Human Services at 645 H St., NE, Washington, DC 20002. Alternatively, you may take your application in person to a DHS IMA service center near you. If you need assistance, or to find out which service center services your area, call [phone].