MinnesotaCare Income Limits 2026: Full Eligibility Guide
Complete income limits, premium costs by income bracket, and eligibility requirements for Minnesota's affordable health coverage program serving over 103,000 residents.
2026 MinnesotaCare Quick Facts
- Income Limit (Individual): $31,300/year (200% FPL)
- Income Limit (Family of 4): $64,300/year (200% FPL)
- Monthly Premium: $0–$80 per person (sliding scale)
- Current Enrollment: 103,047 Minnesotans (March 2025)
- Actuarial Value: 94% (pays 94% of average medical costs)
- Enrollment: Year-round (no open enrollment period)
The MinnesotaCare income limit for a single individual in 2026 is $31,300 per year (200% of the Federal Poverty Level). For a family of four, the limit is $64,300—approximately $5,358 per month before taxes. If you're searching for Minnesota Care income limits or wondering about the income limits for MinnesotaCare, you've found the complete guide. As of March 2025, 103,047 Minnesotans were enrolled in MinnesotaCare, making it a crucial bridge between Medical Assistance (Medicaid) and private insurance purchased through MNsure.
MinnesotaCare is part of the Minnesota Health Care Program suite (also known as MHCP), administered by the Minnesota Department of Human Services. Operating as a federally authorized Basic Health Program since 2015, MinnesotaCare provides comprehensive coverage—including medical, dental, vision, and mental health services—at premiums significantly lower than private insurance. Understanding MinnesotaCare eligibility income requirements is the first step to getting covered.
Important 2026 Changes
- Premiums increasing: Enhanced federal tax credits expired December 31, 2025. Premiums return to standard rates, meaning many enrollees who paid $0 will now owe $4–$80/month.
- Immigration eligibility change: Starting January 1, 2026, undocumented adults age 18+ are no longer eligible. Undocumented children under 18 remain eligible with state-only funding.
What are the MinnesotaCare income limits for 2026?
The income limits for MinnesotaCare in 2026 are based on household income between 138% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The 2026 limits are calculated using the 2025 FPL figures, which increased 2.63% from 2024. Your MinnesotaCare eligibility income is measured using Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI), with a standard 5% FPL disregard applied.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit | FPL Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $2,608 | $31,300 | 200% FPL |
| 2 persons | $3,525 | $42,300 | 200% FPL |
| 3 persons | $4,442 | $53,300 | 200% FPL |
| 4 persons | $5,358 | $64,300 | 200% FPL |
| 5 persons | $6,275 | $75,300 | 200% FPL |
| 6 persons | $7,192 | $86,300 | 200% FPL |
| 7 persons | $8,108 | $97,300 | 200% FPL |
| 8 persons | $9,025 | $108,300 | 200% FPL |
| Each additional person | +$917 | +$11,000 | — |
Source: MNsure 2026 Income Guidelines. Income limits based on 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines per HHS/ASPE.
Who qualifies for MinnesotaCare in 2026?
To qualify for MinnesotaCare coverage in 2026, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- Age 19–64: Children under 19 typically qualify for Medical Assistance instead, which has higher income limits
- Minnesota resident: Must live in Minnesota and demonstrate intent to remain
- Income between 138%–200% FPL: For an individual, this is $20,815 to $31,300 annually
- Not eligible for Medical Assistance or Medicare: MinnesotaCare is for those who earn too much for Medicaid but still need affordable coverage
- No affordable employer coverage: Employer insurance must cost more than 9.96% of household income for both employee and dependent coverage to be considered "unaffordable"
- Citizenship/immigration status: U.S. citizen, lawfully present immigrant (including DACA), or undocumented child under 18
"MinnesotaCare is a program that provides subsidized health coverage to eligible, low-income Minnesotans. MinnesotaCare is for individuals who are not eligible for Medical Assistance—Minnesota's Medicaid and state Children's Health Insurance Program—and who do not have access to other types of health insurance coverage."
— Minnesota House Research Department, MinnesotaCare Public Assistance Programs Brief (November 2025)
No asset limits apply for MinnesotaCare eligibility. Unlike some other Minnesota Health Care Programs, you can qualify regardless of savings, home equity, or other assets. This makes MinnesotaCare accessible to self-employed individuals, gig workers, and early retirees who may have savings but limited current income.
How much does MinnesotaCare cost per month?
MinnesotaCare uses a sliding-scale premium system based on household income and size. For 2026, premiums range from $0 to $80 per person per month. The average lowest-cost plan premium is approximately $50/month according to LawHelp Minnesota.
| Income Range (% of FPL) | Individual Income Range | 2026 Monthly Premium (per person) |
|---|---|---|
| 0–34% FPL | $0–$5,477 | $0 |
| 35–54% FPL | $5,478–$8,607 | $4 |
| 55–79% FPL | $8,608–$12,519 | $6 |
| 80–89% FPL | $12,520–$14,084 | $8 |
| 90–99% FPL | $14,085–$15,649 | $10 |
| 100–109% FPL | $15,650–$17,214 | $12 |
| 110–119% FPL | $17,215–$18,779 | $14 |
| 120–129% FPL | $18,780–$20,344 | $15 |
| 130–139% FPL | $20,345–$21,909 | $16 |
| 140–149% FPL | $21,910–$23,474 | $25 |
| 150–159% FPL | $23,475–$25,039 | $37 |
| 160–169% FPL | $25,040–$26,604 | $44 |
| 170–179% FPL | $26,605–$28,169 | $52 |
| 180–189% FPL | $28,170–$29,734 | $61 |
| 190–199% FPL | $29,735–$31,299 | $71 |
| 200% FPL (Maximum) | $31,300 | $80 |
Source: Minnesota DHS MinnesotaCare Premiums and MN House Research Department.
"MinnesotaCare premium relief makes a big difference for many families. Continuing the savings through 2025 results in more affordable health care coverage for Minnesotans who are facing financial struggles."
— Jodi Harpstead, Former Minnesota DHS Commissioner (September 2022)
Who pays no premium?
- Income below 35% FPL: Households earning less than $5,477 (individual)
- Children under 21: No premium regardless of household income
- American Indians and Alaska Natives: Including family members
- Recent military members: Within 24 months of completing active duty tour (for up to 12 months)
MinnesotaCare Copays for 2026
Adults age 21+ pay copays for most services. Children under 21 and American Indians pay no copays. MinnesotaCare maintains a 94% actuarial value—meaning it pays 94% of average medical costs, compared to 60–70% for typical private plans.
| Service | 2026 Copay |
|---|---|
| Non-preventive office visit | $28 |
| Mental health visit | $0 |
| Preventive care | $0 |
| Emergency room (no admission) | $100 |
| Hospital admission | $250 |
| Radiology visit | $45 |
| Generic prescription | $10 |
| Brand-name prescription | $25 |
| Eyeglasses | $10 |
| Monthly prescription cap | $70 maximum |
Source: Minnesota House Research Department (October 2025 DHS data).
What's the difference between MinnesotaCare and Medical Assistance?
Many Minnesotans search for Medical Assistance MN income limits when they really need MinnesotaCare—or vice versa. Both programs are part of Minnesota Health Care Programs administered by DHS, but they serve different income levels. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation Minnesota Medicaid Fact Sheet, 1,171,000 Minnesotans were enrolled in Medical Assistance as of May 2025—about 11 times the MinnesotaCare enrollment.
| Feature | Medical Assistance (MA) | MinnesotaCare |
|---|---|---|
| Income Limit (Individual) | Up to $20,814 (138% FPL) | $20,815–$31,300 (138–200% FPL) |
| Monthly Premium | $0 (free) | $0–$80/person |
| Copays | Minimal or none | $10–$250 depending on service |
| Program Type | Medicaid (federal/state) | Basic Health Program (ACA) |
| Enrollment (2025) | 1,171,000 | 103,047 |
| Federal Funding Share | 64% (FMAP) | 88% (BHP pass-through) |
Sources: MN House Research, KFF Minnesota Medicaid Fact Sheet (May 2025), Minnesota DHS.
If your income falls below the MinnesotaCare floor (138% FPL or $20,814 for an individual), you'll likely qualify for Medical Assistance instead, which has no monthly premium. The MNsure application automatically determines which program you qualify for based on your household information.
How do I apply for MinnesotaCare?
You can apply for MinnesotaCare year-round—there's no open enrollment period like private insurance. DHS must make eligibility determinations within 45 days of receiving a complete application. Coverage starts the first day of the month after you pay your first premium.
"We're encouraging all Minnesotans to make a plan to enroll—because you and your family are worth staying covered. This year, it's more important than ever to shop and compare your options."
— Libby Caulum, MNsure CEO, MNsure Open Enrollment Announcement (November 2025)
Application Methods
🌐 Online (Fastest)
Apply at MNsure.org. Create an account, complete the application, and get an instant eligibility determination.
📞 By Phone
Call 1-855-366-7873 (toll-free) or 651-539-2099 (metro). Multilingual assistance available. Hours: Mon–Fri, 8am–4pm.
📝 Paper Application
Download forms from MNsure.org or request by phone. Mail completed application to MNsure or submit to your county human services office.
🏢 In Person
Visit your county human services office. Find locations at MNsure.org/help. Free navigator assistance available.
What You'll Need
- Social Security numbers for everyone applying
- Date of birth and citizenship/immigration status
- Income information (pay stubs, tax returns, self-employment records)
- Current health insurance information (if any)
- Employer information (to verify if affordable coverage is available)
What happens if my income changes mid-year?
You must report income changes to MNsure within 10 days. Depending on the change:
Income decreases (below 138% FPL)
You may qualify for Medical Assistance, which has no premium. Your coverage transitions automatically—no gap in coverage.
Income increases (still under 200% FPL)
Your premium may increase to match the new income bracket. You'll receive a new premium bill reflecting the change.
Income exceeds 200% FPL
You become ineligible for MinnesotaCare but may qualify for premium tax credits on private MNsure plans. Review the income limits for MNsure subsidies 2026 to see your options. Apply through MNsure to transition coverage.
MinnesotaCare eligibility is renewed annually during the MNsure open enrollment period. If your eligibility can be auto-renewed using available data (tax records, etc.), you'll receive a notice confirming continued coverage. Otherwise, you'll need to complete a renewal form.
What does MinnesotaCare cover?
As a Minnesota Health Care Program, MinnesotaCare provides comprehensive coverage comparable to Medical Assistance. As a Basic Health Program, it must cover at least the essential health benefits required by the Affordable Care Act. Total MinnesotaCare spending was $663 million in FY 2024, with 88% funded federally.
✅ Medical Care
- • Doctor visits and specialist care
- • Hospital stays and emergency room
- • Preventive care and immunizations
- • Lab tests, X-rays, and diagnostics
- • Rehabilitative therapies
🧠 Mental Health
- • Mental health visits ($0 copay)
- • Substance abuse treatment
- • Crisis intervention
- • Mental health case management
- • Behavioral health services
🦷 Dental & Vision
- • Dental cleanings and fillings
- • Extractions and basic restorative
- • Eye exams
- • Medically necessary eyeglasses
- • Hearing aids
💊 Prescriptions
- • Generic drugs ($10 copay)
- • Brand-name drugs ($25 copay)
- • Monthly cap of $70
- • $0 for HIV prevention/treatment
- • $0 for tobacco cessation
For a complete list of covered services, see Minnesota House Research Department: MinnesotaCare.
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota Care Income Limits
Q: Can I apply for MinnesotaCare at any time?
Yes. Unlike private health insurance through MNsure, MinnesotaCare has no open enrollment period. You can apply year-round through MNsure.org, by phone at 1-855-366-7873, or in person at your county human services office. Coverage begins the first day of the month after your first premium payment.
Q: What happens if my income exceeds the MinnesotaCare limit?
If your income exceeds 200% of the Federal Poverty Level ($31,300 for an individual or $64,300 for a family of four in 2026), you become ineligible for MinnesotaCare. However, you may qualify for premium tax credits to help pay for a private health plan through MNsure. Check the income limits for MNsure subsidies 2026 to see if you qualify for financial help. You must report income changes within 10 days.
Q: Does MinnesotaCare cover dental and vision?
Yes. MinnesotaCare provides comprehensive coverage including basic dental services (cleanings, fillings, extractions) through Delta Dental and medically necessary vision care including eye exams and eyeglasses. Children under 21 receive expanded dental coverage with no copays.
Q: Can immigrants apply for MinnesotaCare?
Lawfully present immigrants (refugees, asylees, green card holders, DACA recipients) can apply for MinnesotaCare. Starting January 1, 2026, undocumented adults age 18 and older are no longer eligible due to 2025 legislative changes. Undocumented children under 18 remain eligible. Application information is protected under state and federal privacy law.
Q: How long does MinnesotaCare approval take?
Minnesota DHS must make eligibility determinations within 45 days of receiving a complete application. Many applications are processed faster, especially those submitted online through MNsure. Coverage starts the first day of the month after you pay your first premium.
Q: What is the MinnesotaCare premium for 2026?
MinnesotaCare premiums for 2026 range from $0 to $80 per person per month on a sliding scale based on household income. People with income below 35% FPL ($5,477 for an individual) pay $0. At 200% FPL ($31,300 individual), the maximum premium is $80 per person. Children under 21 and American Indians pay no premiums regardless of income.
Q: What is the difference between MinnesotaCare and Medical Assistance?
Medical Assistance (MA) is Minnesota's Medicaid program for people with income up to 138% FPL ($20,814 for an individual). It has no monthly premium. MinnesotaCare covers people with income between 138% and 200% FPL ($20,815 to $31,300 individual) who don't qualify for MA. MinnesotaCare requires monthly premiums of $0-$80 depending on income.
Q: Are there asset limits for MinnesotaCare eligibility?
No. MinnesotaCare has no asset limits. Unlike some other Minnesota Health Care Programs, you can qualify regardless of your savings, home equity, or other assets. Eligibility is based solely on household income using Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) methodology.
Sources
- MNsure 2026 Income Guidelines. Minnesota Health Insurance Marketplace. Accessed February 2026.
- 2025 Poverty Guidelines. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation. January 2025.
- MinnesotaCare Premiums. Minnesota Department of Human Services. Updated for 2026.
- MinnesotaCare: Public Assistance Programs Series. Minnesota House Research Department. November 2025.
- Medicaid in Minnesota Fact Sheet. Kaiser Family Foundation. May 2025.
- What is MinnesotaCare and Am I Eligible?. LawHelp Minnesota. Updated March 2025.
- Make a Plan to Enroll: MNsure Now Open for 2026 Enrollment. MNsure News Room. November 2025.
- MinnesotaCare: What You Pay. Disability Benefits 101 Minnesota. 2025.
Related Resources
MinnesotaCare Hub Page
Complete guide to MinnesotaCare benefits, enrollment, and managed care options.
MNsure Guide
Navigate Minnesota's health insurance marketplace for 2026 coverage options.
Premium Tax Credits
If your income exceeds MinnesotaCare limits, you may qualify for subsidies on private plans.
MNsure 2026 Rate Increases
Why MNsure premiums increased 17%+ in 2026 and what it means for your coverage.
Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
Understand how FPL determines eligibility for MinnesotaCare and other programs.
MAGI (Modified Adjusted Gross Income)
Learn how income is calculated for health insurance eligibility in Minnesota.