Medicaid Eligibility

Medicaid is a state and federally funded health program for certain low-income and medically vulnerable people.  Those who meet eligibility requirements are guaranteed coverage through the Medicaid program.  In Ohio, Medicaid is administered by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services via 88 local county Departments of Job and Family Services.

To qualify for Medicaid, a person must:

l      Be a U.S. citizen or meet Medicaid citizenship requirements,

l      Be an Ohio resident,

l      Have or get a social security number, and

l      Meet certain financial requirements.

Financial eligibility requirements are strict.  You may be required to “spend down” (use up) your income and assets until you reach the eligibility level.  Different asset and income levels apply depending on whether you are receiving care at home or in a nursing facility.  A face-to-face interview is necessary to apply.

Eligibility requirements are adjusted yearly.  Visit www.jfs.ohio.gov/county/cntydir.stm or contact your County Department of Job & Family Services for additional information.