MinnesotaCare: Minnesota's Affordable Health Coverage
MinnesotaCare provides low-cost health insurance for Minnesotans with income between 138% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Monthly premiums range from $0 to $80 per person, with comprehensive coverage including doctor visits, prescriptions, and mental health services.
$0-$80/Month
Premium based on income
200% FPL Limit
$31,300 single / $64,300 family of 4
Year-Round
Apply anytime, no open enrollment
Comprehensive
Doctor, Rx, dental, vision, mental health
2026 MinnesotaCare Income Limits
MinnesotaCare eligibility is based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). You must earn more than the Medical Assistance limit (138% FPL) to qualify for MinnesotaCare instead of the free MA program.
2026 Annual Income Limits by Family Size
| Family Size | Medical Assistance (138% FPL) | MinnesotaCare Max (200% FPL) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | Up to $21,597 | $21,598 - $31,300 |
| 2 people | Up to $29,160 | $29,161 - $42,300 |
| 3 people | Up to $36,723 | $36,724 - $53,300 |
| 4 people | Up to $44,367 | $44,368 - $64,300 |
| 5 people | Up to $51,930 | $51,931 - $75,300 |
| 6 people | Up to $59,493 | $59,494 - $86,300 |
Income Below Medical Assistance Limit?
If your income is at or below the MA limit (138% FPL), you'll automatically qualify for Medical Assistance instead, which has $0 premiums. You cannot choose between programs—eligibility is determined by your income level.
MinnesotaCare Monthly Premiums (2026)
MinnesotaCare premiums are calculated on a sliding scale based on your household income and family size. Premiums are paid to the state MinnesotaCare office, not to your health plan.
$0 Premium Groups
- Children under age 21
- American Indians and Alaska Natives
- Households below 35% FPL
- Military members (within 24 months of active duty)
Premium Sliding Scale
What MinnesotaCare Covers & 2026 Copays
Prescriptions
- Generic drugs$10
- Brand-name drugs$25
- Monthly Rx cap$60
Medical Services
- Office visit (non-preventive)$28
- Preventive care$0
- Mental health services$0
Additional Coverage
- Hospital stays
- Emergency services
- Dental & vision care
- Lab tests & X-rays
MinnesotaCare vs Medical Assistance vs Marketplace
| Feature | Medical Assistance | MinnesotaCare | MNsure Marketplace |
|---|---|---|---|
| Income Limit (Single) | Up to $21,597 | $21,598 - $31,300 | Above $31,300 |
| Monthly Premium | $0 | $0 - $80 | Varies (tax credits available) |
| Copays | $1-$3 | $10-$28 | Varies by plan |
| Enrollment Period | Year-round | Year-round | Open enrollment or SEP |
| Asset Test | No | No | No |
How to Apply for MinnesotaCare
Online (Fastest)
Apply through MNsure.org. Select the application WITH financial help to check eligibility for MinnesotaCare or Medical Assistance.
Go to MNsure.orgBy Phone
Call MNsure at 1-855-366-7873 (1-855-3-MNSURE) for assistance. TTY users can call 1-800-627-3529.
1-855-366-7873
In Person
Visit your local county or tribal human services office. Free navigators and assisters can help you complete your application.
Find Local HelpWhat You'll Need to Apply
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
- Employer health insurance information (if offered)
- Immigration documents (if applicable)
- Current health insurance policy details
- Minnesota residency verification
Important 2026 Changes
- •Enhanced ACA subsidies expire: If you currently have MNsure marketplace coverage with enhanced subsidies, check if MinnesotaCare may be a more affordable option for 2026.
- •Immigration policy change: As of January 1, 2026, undocumented adults cannot enroll in MinnesotaCare. Undocumented children under 18 may still qualify.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MinnesotaCare income limit for 2026?
MinnesotaCare income limits for 2026 are based on 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For a single person, the limit is $31,300 annually. For a family of four, the limit is $64,300 annually. You must earn more than the Medical Assistance limit (138% FPL) but less than the MinnesotaCare limit to qualify.
How much does MinnesotaCare cost per month?
MinnesotaCare premiums range from $0 to $80 per person per month, depending on your income. Children under 21, American Indians/Alaska Natives, and households below 35% FPL pay $0 premiums. Most adults pay between $4 and $80 monthly based on a sliding scale.
What is the difference between MinnesotaCare and Medical Assistance?
Medical Assistance (MA) is Minnesota's Medicaid program for people with income at or below 138% FPL, with no monthly premiums. MinnesotaCare is for people with income between 138% and 200% FPL who don't qualify for MA. MinnesotaCare has small monthly premiums ($0-$80) and slightly higher copays than MA.
Can I apply for MinnesotaCare year-round?
Yes, unlike private health insurance through MNsure, you can apply for MinnesotaCare at any time throughout the year. There is no open enrollment period or special enrollment requirements. Coverage typically starts the first of the month after your application is approved and first premium is paid.
What does MinnesotaCare cover?
MinnesotaCare covers comprehensive health services including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, mental health services, dental care, vision care, preventive care with no copay, emergency services, lab tests, and maternity care. Most preventive services and mental health visits have $0 copays.
Do I qualify for MinnesotaCare if I have employer insurance available?
Generally no. To qualify for MinnesotaCare, you cannot have access to affordable employer-sponsored coverage. Coverage is considered 'affordable' if your share of the premium is less than 9.96% of your household income for 2026. If employer coverage is unaffordable, you may still qualify for MinnesotaCare.
Can immigrants get MinnesotaCare?
Lawfully present immigrants can qualify for MinnesotaCare. As of January 1, 2026, undocumented adults cannot enroll in MinnesotaCare, but undocumented children under age 18 may still qualify. Some immigrants who don't qualify for Medical Assistance may qualify for MinnesotaCare instead.
How do I apply for MinnesotaCare?
Apply through MNsure.org online, by calling 1-855-366-7873, or by contacting your local county or tribal human services office. Select the application WITH financial help to determine if you qualify for Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare. Processing typically takes 30-45 days.
Related Resources
MNsure Subsidies Guide
Learn about premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions for marketplace plans.
MNsure Open Enrollment
Marketplace plans for those who don't qualify for MinnesotaCare or Medical Assistance.
Medical Assistance (Medicaid)
Minnesota's free Medicaid program for those with income below 138% FPL.
Not Sure Which Program You Qualify For?
Use Navitize to compare your health insurance options. Our AI-powered tool helps you understand eligibility for MinnesotaCare, Medical Assistance, and marketplace plans with subsidies.
Disclaimer: Navitize is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to MNsure, the Minnesota Department of Human Services, or any government agency. This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered official guidance. For official eligibility determinations, apply through MNsure.org or contact your local county human services office.