How to apply for Kentucky Medicaid
Most Kentucky adults under 138% of the federal poverty level qualify for Medicaid based on income alone. The application is free and takes about 30 minutes.
Apply at kynect.ky.gov
Check eligibility
Most adults qualify based on income (under 138% FPL — about $20,000/year for an individual). Pregnancy, disability, and former foster youth pathways also exist.
Gather documents
Photo ID, Social Security number, proof of income, proof of Kentucky residency, immigration documents if applicable.
Apply
Online at kynect.ky.gov, by phone (1-855-459-6328), by mail, in person at DCBS, or with a kynector.
Pick your Medicaid plan
Once approved, choose one of Kentucky's six MCOs. All cover the clinical continuum of substance use treatment for SUD.
Kentucky Medicaid plans
- Passport Health Plan by Molina
- Anthem BCBS Medicaid
- Humana Healthy Horizons
- WellCare of Kentucky
- Aetna Better Health
- UnitedHealthcare Community Plan
Pick based on provider network, pharmacy benefits, and any care-management programs you may need (e.g., maternity, complex care). You can change MCOs once a year during open enrollment.
Don't wait for the application to fully process
Call admissions directly. We can:
- Help you apply for Medicaid in real time
- Discuss presumptive eligibility for pregnant members or members with severe SUD
- Connect you with bridge resources from no-insurance options while your application is pending
Need help applying for Medicaid?
Our admissions team can walk you through the kynect application and discuss your coverage the moment you're approved.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I apply for Kentucky Medicaid?
The official application portal is kynect.ky.gov. You can also apply by phone (1-855-459-6328), by mail, or in person at a Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office.
Who qualifies for Kentucky Medicaid?
Kentucky expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, so most adults under 138% of the federal poverty level qualify based on income alone. Pregnant members, children, and adults with disabilities have separate eligibility pathways.
How long does the Medicaid application take?
Most applications are processed within 30-45 days. Pregnant members and members with urgent medical needs (including SUD) may qualify for expedited or presumptive eligibility.
Can I get treatment while my Medicaid application is pending?
In some cases, yes — through presumptive eligibility, sliding-scale providers, or state-funded programs. Call admissions and we'll help you understand bridge options.