New York Medicaid Income Limits

If you’re wondering whether you qualify for Medicaid in New York, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is whether your income falls within the program’s eligibility limits.

While income is an important factor, it is only one part of determining Medicaid eligibility. The rules vary depending on your age, household size, disability status, pregnancy, and whether you’re applying for regular Medicaid, long-term care Medicaid, or Medicaid home care services.

This guide explains how New York Medicaid income limits work, who the limits apply to, and what options may be available if your income exceeds the standard guidelines.

New York uses the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to determine eligibility for many Medicaid programs. The FPL is a set of income guidelines published each year by the federal government. New York uses these guidelines to determine eligibility for many Medicaid programs and other public assistance benefits. Because the FPL is updated annually, Medicaid income limits may change from year to year.

For many adults under age 65, parents, and caretaker relatives, Medicaid eligibility is generally available at up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level.

However, income rules differ for:

• Adults ages 19–64
• Children
• Pregnant individuals
• Seniors (65+)
• People with disabilities
• Individuals applying for Medicaid home care or long-term care

Because of these different eligibility categories, two people with the same income may qualify under different rules.

As of January 2026, approximate annual income limits for many adults are:

Note: Income limits shown are provided for general educational purposes. Medicaid eligibility rules vary by program and may change annually. Always verify current guidelines through official New York Medicaid resources.

Yes, Medicaid eligibility is based on both your income and the number of people in your household.

Generally speaking:

• Larger households have higher allowable income limits.
• Income is evaluated differently depending on your eligibility category.
• Certain income may not count toward Medicaid eligibility.

If you’re unsure how your household is calculated, speaking with a Medicaid specialist can help clarify your specific situation.

Depending on your situation, Medicaid may consider income such as:

• Wages and salaries
• Self-employment income
• Social Security retirement benefits
• Pension income
• Unemployment benefits
• Certain investment income
• Some disability benefits

Certain types of income may be excluded or treated differently depending on the Medicaid program.

One of the biggest misconceptions about Medicaid is that earning “too much” automatically means you cannot qualify.

That is not always true.

Some New Yorkers whose income exceeds standard Medicaid limits may still qualify through programs or planning options available under New York Medicaid.

Depending on your circumstances, these options may include:

• Medicaid spend-down programs
• Pooled income trusts (when appropriate)
• Long-term care Medicaid eligibility pathways
• Other Medicaid planning strategies

Having income above the standard limit does not automatically mean you are ineligible for Medicaid. Depending on your circumstances and the type of Medicaid you’re seeking, additional eligibility pathways may be available.

For many adults applying for regular Medicaid, assets generally are not considered.

However, asset rules often apply when applying for:

• Long-term care Medicaid
• Nursing home Medicaid
• Certain Medicaid home care programs

Examples of assets that may be reviewed include:

• Bank accounts
• Investments
• Retirement accounts
• Real estate
• Additional property

Not all assets count toward Medicaid eligibility, and some may be exempt under New York Medicaid rules. Learn more in our New York Medicaid Asset Limits Guide.

Medicaid home care eligibility involves more than simply meeting an income limit.

Applicants must typically demonstrate:

• Financial eligibility
• Medical necessity
• Functional need for assistance with daily activities

Depending on the services requested, applicants may also complete nursing assessments or care evaluations. Receiving Medicaid home care generally requires both financial eligibility and a determination that assistance with daily living activities is medically necessary.

Because home care eligibility can be more complex than standard Medicaid, many families benefit from professional guidance during the application process.

Federal Poverty Level guidelines are updated annually.

As a result, Medicaid income limits may increase or change each year.

If you’re reviewing older information online, be sure you’re looking at the most current eligibility guidelines before applying.

Understanding Medicaid eligibility involves more than reviewing income limits. Household size, assets, medical needs, and the type of services you’re applying for can all affect whether you qualify for coverage and the benefits available to you.

To learn more, visit our New York Medicaid FAQ, where you’ll find answers to common questions about eligibility requirements, home care services, CDPAP, Managed Long-Term Care (MLTC), the application process, required documentation, appeals, and other important Medicaid topics. As our Medicaid Resource Center continues to grow, you’ll also find in-depth guides designed to help New York residents better understand their options and navigate the Medicaid system with confidence.