Kentucky Medicaid · Eligibility

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.

Call (502) 610-4829Apply at kynect.ky.gov

Golden Grove Recovery is preparing to open in Louisville, KY. Coverage information on this page describes Kentucky Medicaid substance use treatment in general — your individual coverage depends on your specific plan, plan year, and medical-necessity determination. Call admissions to talk through your situation.

The 4-step process

Apply at kynect.ky.gov.

The full Kentucky Medicaid application takes about 30 minutes online. Have your documents ready before you start.

  1. 01

    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.

  2. 02

    Gather documents

    Photo ID, Social Security number, proof of income, proof of Kentucky residency, and immigration documents if applicable.

  3. 03

    Apply

    Online at kynect.ky.gov, by phone (1-855-459-6328), by mail, in person at DCBS, or with a kynector.

  4. 04

    Pick your Medicaid plan

    Once approved, choose one of Kentucky's six MCOs. All cover the clinical continuum of substance use treatment for SUD.

Pick your plan

Kentucky Medicaid plans.

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.

If you need treatment now

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 while your application is pending
Frequently asked

Common questions about applying.

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.
Take the next step

Need help applying for Medicaid? We walk you through it.

Admissions can walk you through the kynect application and discuss your coverage the moment you're approved.

Call (502) 610-4829 Apply at kynect.ky.gov