Applying for Medical Assistance (MA) and MinnesotaCare

This information is for people in families with children and people who are adults under age 65 who do not have children living with them and do not have a disability.

If you are only applying for coverage for a person who is 65 or older, see the page on how to apply if you are a senior.
If you are only applying for coverage for a person who has a disability, see the page on how to apply for people with disabilities.

FAQs about the application process

How do I apply?
- Apply online through MNsure, Minnesota's health insurance marketplace. Here are some tips for completing the MNsure online application.
- Fill out and return the MNsure paper application DHS-6696 (PDF).
Some people should not apply through MNsure. These are typically seniors and people with disabilities.

Children in foster care

Children in foster care are eligible for MA without having to file a health care application. A child’s social services case manager will start the process to get MA for a child immediately when a child enters foster care. For questions about MA for a child in foster care, contact the child’s case manager.
Where can I get help applying?
- www.mnsure.org
- Call MNsure at 651-539-2099 (855-366-7873 outside the Twin Cities)
- Contact a navigator in your area. Go to the MNsure website or call 855-366-7873 for a list of navigators
- Contact your county or tribal office or call DHS Health Care Consumer Support at 651-297-3862 or 800-657-3672
- Learn more about how county or tribal workers or MNsure navigators can help
Does it matter when I apply?
Yes, the date we receive your application online or we get your paper application affects when your coverage can start. Coverage may start:
- The first day of the month we get your application,
- Three months before the month we get your application,
- The month after your eligibility is approved, or
- The first day of the month after you pay your first premium, if you have one.
What happens after I submit my application?
How will I know if I can get coverage?
If you apply online at MNsure, we usually tell you right away if you or any household member:
- Can get coverage and if you will have to pay for it
- Cannot get coverage and why
You also will get a letter telling you if you and your family members qualify. The letter also tells you how you can ask for a review of the decision(s) if you do not agree with it.

If you apply with a paper application, we will send you a letter telling you if you or any household members:
- Can get coverage and if you will have to pay for it
- Cannot get coverage and why
The letter also tells you how to ask for a review of a decision, if you disagree.