Health care coverage

For families with children under 21

This information is for families with children under age 21 living with them. It also applies to foster parents and other caretakers. It describes eligibility requirements for Medical Assistance (MA) and MinnesotaCare but does not cover all program rules.

Apply to see if you qualify

How much does coverage cost?

Some parents may have to pay a monthly premium. The amount, if any, depends on your income, family size and who gets coverage. You may also have copays for some services.

There is no cost for children under age 21.

Premiums and copays

When can our coverage start?

Depending on which program your family qualifies for, coverage may start:

  • The first day of the month that we get your application
  • Going back up to three months before the month we get your application
  • The month after you are approved and pay your first premium, if you have one

What is the income limit for my family?

Adults and children have different income limits. The income limit depends on each person's age and your family size.

Learn more about income and asset limits

Can my family qualify if we have a car, checking and savings accounts, home, financial investments or other assets?

There is no asset limit for MinnesotaCare.

Generally, there is no asset limit for Medical Assistance for parents, children under 21 and adults without children in the home.

If you are a parent or caretaker relative eligible for Medical Assistance with a spenddown OR a senior or person age 21 and older who is Blind or has a disability, you have an asset limit.

Assets that do not count toward the limit include the home where you live, household goods, personal items like clothing and jewelry and certain assets owned by an American Indian.

Learn about asset limits

Can I qualify if I have other health insurance?

Your family may still qualify. You must tell us if you have other health insurance or if you can get coverage through an employer or military service. Sometimes we can pay the cost of the other insurance so you can keep that coverage.

Learn how other insurance could impact eligibility

Can I get help for my child who has a disability?

There are special options for children under age 21 who have a disability.

Find options for your child

What if someone in my family does not qualify and still needs coverage?

If you do not qualify for MA or MinnesotaCare, you may qualify for an advanced premium tax credit to help pay for insurance through Minnesota's health insurance marketplace, MNsure. The tax credit helps pay part or all of your health insurance premium. Even if you do not qualify for a tax credit, you can compare and purchase affordable health insurance. You cannot be denied coverage for pre-existing conditions.

MNsure

People between the ages of 15 and 50 may qualify for family planning services coverage only.

Family planning services coverage