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New Jersey · Medicaid

Medicaid in New Jersey

Looking for Medicaid eligibility in New Jersey? Here is how this coverage lane works specifically for New Jersey residents, what it costs, and how to get it.

Facts on this page checked Jan 15, 2026. Sources are listed at the end.

How it works here

Medicaid, explained for New Jersey.

New Jersey expanded Medicaid under the ACA, so adults with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify regardless of whether they have children.

Medicaid in New Jersey provides free or very low-cost comprehensive coverage for those who qualify, and you can apply year-round — there is no enrollment window.

If you do not qualify for Medicaid in New Jersey, a subsidized Marketplace plan through Get Covered NJ is usually the next best option.

New Jersey Medicaid (NJ FamilyCare) covers expansion adults and traditional eligibility groups.

Income-eligible adults enroll year-round; those above the limit are directed to Get Covered NJ for premium tax credits.

Because New Jersey is dense and high-cost, confirming in-network hospitals near you still matters even on Medicaid managed care.

New Jersey facts

Marketplace
Get Covered NJ
Medicaid expansion
Adopted
Uninsured rate
~7.2%

Open enrollment 2027

When New Jersey can enroll.

Differs from HealthCare.gov
Opens
Nov 1, 2026
Sun
For Jan 1 coverage
Check the exchange
Get Covered New Jersey sets this date
Last day to enroll
Jan 31, 2027
Sun

New Jersey runs its own exchange. These dates come from a secondary source (healthinsurance.org, Aug 2026). Confirm with Get Covered New Jersey before you rely on a date. Outside this window, a qualifying life event (a move, a new baby, losing other coverage) can open a Special Enrollment Period.

Medicare is different.Medicare’s annual enrollment runs Oct 15 to Dec 7, 2026. For Medicare help, visit our sister site OLYRON Medicare or Medicare.gov.

Dates checked Oct 15, 2026. Sources: HealthCare.gov: dates and deadlines; CMS statement, Jul 27, 2026.

Questions

Good questions, short answers.

Who qualifies for Medicaid in New Jersey?

Adults with income up to about 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, plus children, pregnant women, and others who meet income rules.

Can I apply for Medicaid any time in New Jersey?

Yes — unlike Marketplace plans, Medicaid enrollment is open year-round for those who qualify.

Did New Jersey expand Medicaid?

Yes. New Jersey adopted ACA Medicaid expansion, which generally opens coverage to more low-income adults.

Sources

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