The short answer
If you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, you're dual eligible — and that combination provides some of the most complete, lowest-cost coverage in the entire system. Medicare is your primary health insurance, and Medicaid fills in behind it, often covering premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and benefits Medicare doesn't, like long-term care. The catch is you apply for the two programs in different places.
Getting both isn't automatic; you generally apply for Medicare through Social Security and for Medicaid through your state. But the payoff for those who qualify is substantial.
The steps to dual eligibility
First, enroll in Medicare through Social Security if you aren't already (or you may have it through disability). Second, apply for Medicaid through your state's Medicaid agency, which decides eligibility based on income and resource limits. If you qualify for both, you become dual eligible, and you may also automatically get Extra Help with drug costs.
Once you're dual eligible, you can often enroll in a Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) that coordinates both programs into one plan with very low cost-sharing. Our guide comparing chronic and dual Special Needs Plans explains those.
Getting help applying
The Medicaid application is where people most often need guidance, because income and resource limits vary and the paperwork can be involved. Even if you think your income might be slightly too high, it's worth checking — some pathways extend further than people expect, and dual eligibility unlocks major savings.
Our government help center points to how to apply and what programs are available. If you qualify, dual coverage can dramatically lower your out-of-pocket costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for both Medicare and Medicaid?
Enroll in Medicare through Social Security, and apply for Medicaid separately through your state's Medicaid agency, which decides eligibility by income and resources. Qualifying for both makes you dual eligible.
What does dual eligibility get me?
Medicare as primary coverage plus Medicaid filling in behind it — often covering premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and benefits like long-term care, plus Extra Help with drug costs.
Is there a plan that combines both?
Yes. Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) coordinate Medicare and Medicaid into one plan with very low cost-sharing for people who qualify for both.
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