Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel

Arkansas Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers: Medicaid, ARKids (CHIP), ARHOME & More [2025]

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, step‑by‑step hub for single moms in Arkansas who need health coverage now. Every rule, dollar figure, and phone number below is from an official source and dated in 2025 where possible. Links are descriptive and clickable.

Apply or manage benefits at Access Arkansas (state portal) — apply online 24/7, upload documents, check status. For help with the portal call the Access Arkansas Call Center at 1‑855‑372‑1084. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Quick Help Box (read this first)

• If you’re pregnant and uninsured, ask for “Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women (PE‑PW)” at your clinic so your prenatal care starts today. Then complete your full Medicaid application. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• If your monthly income is near the numbers in the “Pregnant Women Medicaid (209% FPL)” table below, apply for pregnancy Medicaid right now on Access Arkansas. (medicaid.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
• If you’re not pregnant and your income is at or below the “ARHOME (Medicaid Expansion, 138% FPL)” numbers, apply for ARHOME (coverage through Blue Cross or Ambetter). For plan questions call 1‑888‑987‑1200. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Children under 19? Check ARKids A (Medicaid) and ARKids B (CHIP). Income limits updated April 1, 2025 are in the ARKids table below. Hotline: 1‑888‑474‑8275 (Mon–Fri). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Need a primary care or dental provider who takes Medicaid/ARKids? Call ConnectCare at 1‑800‑275‑1131. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Need a ride to the doctor? Medicaid’s NET program can take you to covered appointments. Call 1‑888‑987‑1200 (call at least 48 hours in advance). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Lost coverage or denied? See “What to do if this doesn’t work” after each section for Plan B options. For complaints, use the Medicaid Complaint Hotline 1‑888‑987‑1200. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What changed for 2025 (why this matters)

• Federal Poverty Guidelines increased for 2025, which slightly raises income limits across many programs. See the FPL table used in the calculations below. (aspe.hhs.gov, govinfo.gov)
• ARKids A/B income limits were updated April 1, 2025. We show the official monthly numbers below. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Arkansas ended Medicaid managed‑care dental and moved dental back to fee‑for‑service (use your Medicaid ID). Adult dental remains limited to $500perstatefiscalyear(July–June)\ast \ast ;somechangesforadultswithspecialneedsareslatedtoincreaseto\ast \ast$1,000 on September 1, 2025, pending CMS approval. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Maternal health investments: Arkansas is implementing the Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies initiatives (e.g., doula coverage, remote monitoring, higher OB payments), and Maternal Life360 services are expanding via DHS and hospital partners. (senate.arkansas.gov, humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Postpartum coverage: Arkansas did not adopt 12‑month postpartum Medicaid. Pregnancy Medicaid still ends at the end of the month of the 60th day after birth unless you qualify for another category (for non‑citizen “Unborn” coverage this 60‑day rule is explicitly stated). See Plan B options in the Pregnancy section. (arkansasadvocate.com, humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Eligibility at a glance (2025 FPL-based)

Tables below convert 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines into monthly income cutoffs for the most used coverage paths for single moms. Always remember MAGI rules and the 5% disregard may apply; use Access Arkansas to get an official decision. (medicaid.gov)

2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines (HHS/ASPE). (aspe.hhs.gov)

Table 1. ARHOME (Medicaid Expansion) — up to 138% FPL

ARHOME covers adults 19–64 up to 138% FPL who don’t have Medicare. Coverage is delivered through private plans (Blue Cross or Ambetter). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Method: 2025 FPL x 1.38 ÷ 12; rounded to nearest dollar. (aspe.hhs.gov)

Table 2. Pregnant Women Medicaid — up to 209% FPL

Arkansas covers pregnant women up to 209% FPL. (Household for pregnant women typically counts the pregnancy.) If income fits below, apply now; PE‑PW can start prenatal care immediately while your full application is processed. (medicaid.gov, humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Method: 2025 FPL x 2.09 ÷ 12; rounded. (aspe.hhs.gov)

Table 3. ARKids (Medicaid & CHIP) — official monthly limits (effective April 1, 2025)

ARKids A is Medicaid for children; ARKids B is CHIP for higher incomes (with small copays). Apply for kids even if you’re unsure — DHS will place your child in A or B. Hotline: 1‑888‑474‑8275. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Table 4. WIC (Arkansas Department of Health) — up to 185% FPL

WIC helps with nutritious foods, breastfeeding support, and referrals; available to pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding women, infants, and children under 5. Income cap is 185% FPL. Use the ADH pre‑screen or apply at your Local Health Unit. (healthy.arkansas.gov)

Method: 2025 FPL x 1.85 ÷ 12; rounded. (aspe.hhs.gov)

Arkansas Medicaid Paths for Single Moms (what to do first in each case)

If you’re pregnant right now

Action item (don’t wait):

• Ask your clinic or a Local Health Unit to screen you for Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women (PE‑PW) so prenatal care starts immediately while your full application is processed. Then complete your Medicaid application at Access Arkansas. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Eligibility and income:

• Pregnancy Medicaid goes up to about 209% FPL (see Table 2). If you’re a household of 2 (you + baby), that’s about $3,684/month. (medicaid.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)

Postpartum length (reality check):

• Arkansas did not adopt 12‑month postpartum Medicaid. Unless you qualify for another category (for example, ARHOME up to 138% FPL), pregnancy‑related coverage ends at the end of the month of the 60th day after birth. This 60‑day limit is explicit in the non‑citizen “Unborn” program and applies generally to pregnancy coverage in Arkansas today. (arkansasadvocate.com, humanservices.arkansas.gov)

How to apply and get help:

• Apply online at Access Arkansas (state portal). For help, call 1‑855‑372‑1084. For questions during renewals, the Renew Arkansas hotline is 1‑844‑872‑2660. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• For maternity clinics and prenatal services offered by the Arkansas Department of Health, call 1‑855‑275‑6667 (ARK MOMS) or use the ADH maternity resources and clinic map. (healthy.arkansas.gov)

Required documents (what clinics/DHS often ask for):

• Photo ID, proof of Arkansas residency, pregnancy verification if available, Social Security numbers (for those applying), and proof of income (recent pay stubs or award letters). See the Access Arkansas Client Toolkit for uploading docs and linking your case. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Timelines:

• PE‑PW starts the same day your clinic deems you likely eligible. Your full Medicaid decision follows after DHS reviews your complete application; respond to any DHS letters quickly so coverage isn’t denied for missing info. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Common pitfalls:

• Missing DHS letters or not uploading the documents they request. Log in to Access Arkansas, turn on text/email alerts, and check messages weekly during your application. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):

• If your pregnancy Medicaid ends 60 days postpartum and your income is near the ARHOME numbers (Table 1), apply for ARHOME right away. If you’re over ARHOME limits, use a Marketplace SEP (having a baby qualifies you to enroll outside Open Enrollment). For free local Marketplace help in Arkansas call “My Arkansas HelpLine” at 1‑844‑355‑3262 or Healthcare.gov at 1‑800‑318‑2596. (myarinsurance.com, healthcare.gov)

If you’re a single mom not pregnant

Action item:

• If your monthly income is at or below the ARHOME numbers (Table 1), apply for ARHOME on Access Arkansas. This is Arkansas’s Medicaid expansion program (coverage provided through Blue Cross or Ambetter). Member help line: 1‑888‑987‑1200. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Key details:

• ARHOME covers adults up to 138% FPL. Cost‑sharing is small for most services (e.g., $4.70\ast \ast or\ast \ast$9.40 copays depending on the service). Medically frail individuals are exempt from ARHOME cost‑sharing. See the state’s cost‑sharing summary. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• ConnectCare can help you pick or change your primary care provider (PCP) and find dentists who take Medicaid. Helpline: 1‑800‑275‑1131 (6 a.m.–8 p.m. weekdays; Spanish help available). (healthy.arkansas.gov)

Transportation:

• If you have Medicaid or ARKids A, the Non‑Emergency Transportation (NET) program gives free rides to covered medical visits. Call 1‑888‑987‑1200 and schedule at least 48 hours (two full business days) in advance. ARKids B is not eligible for NET. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Common pitfalls:

• Not answering DHS requests. Turn on alerts in Access Arkansas and upload documents promptly. If a ride doesn’t show, call the broker and the NET Helpline right away. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your income is just above ARHOME limits, check Marketplace plans and subsidies on HealthCare.gov’s Arkansas page and get free local help through My Arkansas HelpLine at 1‑844‑355‑3262. Hospital financial assistance may also reduce large bills (see Hospital Charity Care below). (healthcare.gov, myarinsurance.com)

If you have kids under 19 (ARKids A & B)

Action item:

• Apply for your children on Access Arkansas. DHS will evaluate for ARKids A (Medicaid) or ARKids B (CHIP) using the official 2025 income limits in Table 3. Hotline: 1‑888‑474‑8275. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What ARKids covers and costs:

• ARKids A: comprehensive coverage with no premiums or copays for under age 18.
• ARKids B: CHIP with small copays and a yearly household cost cap of 5% of gross income. Typical copays include $10\ast \ast perofficevisitand\ast \ast$5 per prescription; other copays apply by service. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Dental and vision:

• Dental for children is covered; ARKids B has copays. Adults on Medicaid have dental capped at $500 per state fiscal year for most services. Use your Medicaid ID (not an old dental plan card). For help finding a dentist, call ConnectCare at 1‑800‑275‑1131. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Common pitfalls:

• ARKids B requires your child to be uninsured for 90 days unless coverage was lost involuntarily; if you lost other insurance not by choice, your child may be eligible immediately. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If income is over ARKids B, check employer coverage options and verify if your hospital system’s financial assistance can help with big bills (see below). For ongoing pediatric care at lower cost, consider a Federally Qualified Health Center (sliding fee). (chc-ar.org)

Costs you should expect (so there are no surprises)

Table 5. ARHOME cost‑sharing snapshot (QHP enrollees)

Small copays apply for many services for adults enrolled in an ARHOME Qualified Health Plan (QHP). Medically frail clients do not have ARHOME cost‑sharing.

Source: DHS ARHOME Cost‑Sharing Information (adults above 20% FPL in QHPs). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Adult dental (Medicaid)

• Most adult dental care is capped at $500perstatefiscalyear(July–June)\ast \ast ;includesonecleaning,x‑rays,fluoride;extractionsandfillingsarecoveredwithlimits.Thestatereturnedtofee‑for‑servicedentalinNov.2024,soshowyourMedicaidIDatthedentist.DHShasalsosignaledanincreaseto\ast \ast$1,000 for adults with special needs effective September 1, 2025, pending CMS approval. For dental eligibility/benefit questions call 1‑800‑275‑1131; for provider questions contact AFMC at 1‑877‑650‑2362. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Step‑by‑step: How to apply on Access Arkansas

• Create an account or sign in at Access.Arkansas.gov. Link your case if you already receive benefits.
• Use the combined family application to apply for Medicaid/ARHOME and ARKids in one shot.
• Upload documents (photo of pay stubs, pregnancy verification, ID, etc.). Turn on text/email alerts.
• Track your application and messages in your account; respond to any “proof needed” letters fast.

State toolkit and videos: account setup, uploading docs, linking cases, and appeals are explained here: Access Arkansas Client Toolkit. For portal help call 1‑855‑372‑1084. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Find your local DHS office (if you need an in‑person visit): County Office Map & Directory. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Real‑world examples

• You’re 10 weeks pregnant, work 28 hours/week, and bring home about $3,200/month\ast \ast foryourselfandyourtoddleriscoveredbyARKidsA.AsafamilyoftwoforpregnancyMedicaid(you+baby),\ast \ast$3,684/month is the 209% FPL cutoff. You likely qualify for pregnancy Medicaid now; use PE‑PW at your clinic today and apply on Access Arkansas. Your toddler stays on ARKids. (medicaid.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
• You’re not pregnant, have one child, and your monthly income is $2,200\ast \ast .Asanadultatorbelow\ast \ast$2,432/month (138% FPL for 2), you likely qualify for ARHOME. Apply on Access Arkansas; expect small copays like $4.70 for office visits. Your child may be ARKids A or B depending on the child‑specific ARKids table. (aspe.hhs.gov, humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Your oldest is 12 and you earn $5,500/month\ast \ast .Forafamilyof3,ARKidsBgoesupto\ast \ast$4,685.96 — so your 12‑year‑old is over that limit for ARKids B. Check Marketplace options (local help at 1‑844‑355‑3262) and ask your hospital about financial assistance policies to lower bills if needed. (humanservices.arkansas.gov, myarinsurance.com)

Transportation to care (NET)

If you have Medicaid or ARKids A, the NET program will take you to covered appointments. Call the broker for your region or the NET Helpline 1‑888‑987‑1200. Call at least 48 hours in advance (Mon–Fri, 8–5). If the ride doesn’t arrive, call the broker, then the Helpline. ARKids B is not eligible for NET. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Where to get care if you’re uninsured, between coverages, or over income

• Community Health Centers (Sliding Fee): Find a Federally Qualified Health Center near you via the Community Health Centers of Arkansas directory or the official HRSA Find a Health Center tool. CHCs accept Medicaid/Medicare/most insurance and offer discounted fees based on income and family size. (chc-ar.org, datawarehouse.hrsa.gov)
• Hospital Financial Assistance (Charity Care):
  • UAMS Health: automatic 60% discount for Arkansas residents without insurance; additional assistance available. Financial assistance line 1‑501‑526‑7800. (uamshealth.com)
  • Arkansas Children’s: financial assistance and single billing office help. Call 1‑800‑280‑1230 or 501‑364‑2500. (archildrens.org)
  • CHI St. Vincent: financial assistance for patients generally up to 400% FPL (CommonSpirit policy). Info line 844‑286‑5546. (chistvincent.com)
  • Baptist Health: uninsured discount plus financial assistance; Customer Service 501‑202‑3900; hospital financial counselor numbers by location listed here. (baptist-health.com)
• Prescription help: Ask your clinic pharmacy about manufacturer assistance. Also try nonprofit tools like the Medicine Assistance Tool and community health center pharmacies; many CHCs participate in 340B drug pricing. (Check with your specific clinic.)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use My Arkansas HelpLine 1‑844‑355‑3262 to compare Marketplace plans and see if subsidies make coverage affordable now. Open Enrollment typically runs Nov 1–Jan 15; giving birth, losing coverage, or other life events trigger Special Enrollment. (myarinsurance.com)

Important Arkansas phone numbers (keep this list)

• Access Arkansas Call Center (apply/manage benefits): 1‑855‑372‑1084. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• ARKids Hotline: 1‑888‑474‑8275. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• ARHOME member line / Medicaid complaint & NET Helpline: 1‑888‑987‑1200. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• ConnectCare (find PCP/dentist; dental FFS questions): 1‑800‑275‑1131 (TDD 1‑800‑285‑1131). (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• DHS Medicaid coverage/billing help: 1‑800‑482‑5431; general customer assistance 1‑800‑482‑8988. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• My Arkansas HelpLine (Marketplace enrollment help): 1‑844‑355‑3262; Healthcare.gov: 1‑800‑318‑2596. (myarinsurance.com, healthcare.gov)
• DHS County Office Locator: Find your local office. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Not opening DHS mail or Access Arkansas messages. Many denials happen for “failure to provide” when DHS is just waiting on a pay stub or a pregnancy verification. Turn on alerts and upload docs promptly. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Assuming dental is still through MCNA/Delta. Since Nov. 1, 2024, dental is fee‑for‑service. Use your Medicaid ID card; call ConnectCare to find a dentist. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Waiting to apply for pregnancy coverage. Use PE‑PW so prenatal care starts now; then finish your full application. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Forgetting NET timing. Call for rides at least 48 hours ahead (don’t count weekends/holidays). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Application checklist (what to gather before you apply)

• Photo ID and proof of Arkansas residency (e.g., lease/utility bill).
• Social Security numbers for those applying (if available).
• Proof of income (recent pay stubs, award letters).
• Pregnancy verification (if you have it; PE‑PW can start without full paperwork).
• Any current health insurance information (including employer offers for HIPP screening).

For upload tips, alerts, linking your case, and appeals, see the Access Arkansas Client Toolkit. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Extra programs Arkansas moms use a lot

• HIPP (Health Insurance Premium Payment): If your job’s plan is cheaper for Medicaid than fee‑for‑service, Arkansas may reimburse your premium (you keep Medicaid too). Email [email protected], fax 855‑777‑1001, or see the program page (processing can take up to ~30 days). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Non‑Emergency Transportation (NET): See section above; always call at least 48 hours early. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Maternity support: ADH Maternity Program, Local Health Units, and DHS Maternal Life360 programs (home visiting and supports for high‑risk pregnancies) — contact your area Life360 (e.g., Baptist Health Pulaski/Saline/Faulkner 501‑202‑4099; St. Bernards Jonesboro 870‑207‑0421; White River Batesville 870‑793‑0627). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Diverse communities: tailored tips and contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Community Health Centers offer inclusive primary care and behavioral health regardless of insurance; find a center via CHC‑AR’s directory or HRSA’s tool. Marketplace help through My Arkansas HelpLine can pair you with local assisters. (chc-ar.org, myarinsurance.com)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: Check TEFRA for children with disabilities cared for at home; premiums may apply above 150% FPL; questions line 1‑855‑372‑1084. Adults with disabilities may qualify for Medicaid using SSI‑based rules (non‑MAGI). (humanservices.arkansas.gov, medicaid.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: You can enroll in VA health care through the Central Arkansas VA and still enroll children in ARKids. If you receive Medicare due to disability, ask DHS about Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) to help with premiums; the application is on DHS’s Health Care Forms page. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: The “Unborn Pregnant Woman” program covers prenatal, delivery, postpartum care and pregnancy‑related conditions for non‑citizens who meet income rules; coverage runs through pregnancy and the end of the month of the 60th day postpartum. WIC eligibility is separate and does not require immigration status. (humanservices.arkansas.gov, healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Tribal citizens and AI/AN families: Indian Health Service/Tribal/Urban Indian (I/T/U) dental providers are Medicaid‑enrolled; ARKids/Medicaid copays are waived for many AI/AN services. Use ConnectCare to locate providers and ask specifically about I/T/U clinics. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Rural moms with limited access: ADH Local Health Units provide prenatal care and referrals; use NET rides for long distances and ask about remote BP monitoring or telehealth options supported under Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies initiatives. (healthy.arkansas.gov, senate.arkansas.gov)
• Single fathers raising kids: The same ARHOME/ARKids/PE‑PW programs (except pregnancy coverage) apply to single dads as caregivers. Use ARKids for children and ARHOME for adult coverage if income‑eligible. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Language access: Access Arkansas provides materials and help in Spanish and Marshallese (Kajin Majel). See the state toolkit’s multilingual guides or call the numbers in the Hotlines page and ask for language services. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Local organizations, charities, churches and support groups

• Community Health Centers across Arkansas (medical, dental, behavioral health; sliding fees): Find a clinic. (chc-ar.org)
• Arkansas Department of Health Local Health Units (prenatal/WIC/family planning): See ADH listings and clinic map; phone 1‑855‑275‑6667. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Hospital‑based pregnancy resources: Maternal Life360 providers now include St. Bernards (Jonesboro), Baptist Health (Little Rock/NLR), and White River (Batesville) with home‑visiting supports. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• My Arkansas HelpLine (free Marketplace enrollment help, agent referrals): 1‑844‑355‑3262. (myarinsurance.com)

Reality checks and timelines (so you can plan)

• Application decisions: Pregnancy PE‑PW is immediate; full Medicaid decisions can take several weeks depending on how fast documents are provided. Answer DHS letters quickly. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Postpartum gap risk: Without a 12‑month postpartum policy, many moms lose pregnancy Medicaid after 60 days if over ARHOME limits. Line up your Plan B during pregnancy (ARHOME or Marketplace SEP). Arkansas is investing in maternal health access (doulas, higher OB pay, remote monitoring), but eligibility rules still matter. (arkansasadvocate.com, senate.arkansas.gov)
• Dental: Adult Medicaid dental is limited; stretch your benefits with preventive care early each state fiscal year (July–June). Watch for the special‑needs increase pending CMS approval (September 2025). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Region‑by‑region quick pointers

• Northwest (Benton/Washington): CHCs in Springdale/Bentonville; Arkansas Children’s Northwest Financial Assistance: 479‑725‑6800; My Arkansas HelpLine for Marketplace help: 1‑844‑355‑3262. (archildrens.org, myarinsurance.com)
• Central (Pulaski/Saline/Faulkner): UAMS Financial Assistance 1‑501‑526‑7800; Baptist Health Maternal Life360 501‑202‑4099. (uamshealth.com, humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Northeast (Craighead/Independence): St. Bernards Maternal Life360 870‑207‑0421; White River Health Maternal Life360 870‑793‑0627. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Southeast/Delta (Jefferson/Phillips): CHCs and ADH maternity clinics active; use NET rides for long trips and Local Health Units for prenatal/WIC (1‑855‑275‑6667). (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Southwest (Garland/Hot Spring/Miller): CHCs in Hot Springs/Arkadelphia; Baptist Health hospitals provide financial counseling lines listed above. (baptist-health.com)

FAQ — Arkansas health coverage questions single moms ask

1. Do assets (savings, car) count for ARHOME/ARKids/pregnancy Medicaid?
   No asset test for MAGI‑based groups like adults in ARHOME, kids (ARKids), and pregnant women. Eligibility is based on income and tax household rules. (medicaid.gov)
2. What if I’m over the income for pregnancy Medicaid but under ARHOME?
   You can move to ARHOME after pregnancy coverage ends (or sooner if you’re not in the pregnancy category). Use Access Arkansas to update your case. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
3. My child has significant disabilities — is there a path regardless of my income?
   Yes. TEFRA lets many children with disabilities qualify based on the child’s income/resources only. Families above 150% FPL may owe a TEFRA premium (capped at 5% of gross income). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
4. How do I find a Medicaid PCP or dentist?
   Call ConnectCare 1‑800‑275‑1131 (TDD 1‑800‑285‑1131) to choose a PCP and locate dentists who take Medicaid/ARKids. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
5. Is adult dental covered?
   Limited. Adults get up to $500perstatefiscalyear\ast \ast formostdental.Statemovedtofee‑for‑serviceonNov1,2024;useyourMedicaidID.Aspecial‑needsincreaseto\ast \ast$1,000 is slated for Sept 1, 2025 pending CMS approval. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
6. I missed Open Enrollment for Marketplace plans — can I still enroll?
   Yes, if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (having a baby, loss of coverage, move, etc.). Call 1‑844‑355‑3262 or 1‑800‑318‑2596 for help. (myarinsurance.com, healthcare.gov)
7. I need a ride to prenatal or pediatric visits.
   Use NET (Medicaid/ARKids A only). Call 1‑888‑987‑1200 at least 48 business hours before your appointment. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
8. How big are ARHOME copays?
   Most are $4.70\ast \ast ;someare\ast \ast$9.40 (e.g., certain drugs, non‑emergent ER use). Preventive and inpatient care are $0. Medically frail adults don’t have ARHOME cost‑sharing. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
9. Can I get immediate prenatal care before my full application is decided?
   Yes — ask for PE‑PW at your clinic; it starts prenatal coverage right away while DHS processes your full case. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
10. Who do I call if I think my case was handled unfairly?
    Use the Medicaid Complaint Hotline 1‑888‑987‑1200; you also have the right to a hearing. See the state’s “Your Rights” page for how to request a hearing. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Apply/manage benefits: Access Arkansas portal — Call 1‑855‑372‑1084. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Pregnant? Use PE‑PW now; then finish full application. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Income limits: ARHOME (Table 1, 138% FPL); Pregnancy Medicaid (Table 2, 209% FPL); ARKids A/B (Table 3 official). (humanservices.arkansas.gov, medicaid.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
• PCP/dentist help: ConnectCare 1‑800‑275‑1131. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Rides (NET): 1‑888‑987‑1200 (call 48 hours ahead). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Marketplace help: My Arkansas HelpLine 1‑844‑355‑3262; Healthcare.gov 1‑800‑318‑2596. (myarinsurance.com, healthcare.gov)
• Hospital financial assistance: UAMS 501‑526‑7800; Arkansas Children’s 800‑280‑1230; CHI St. Vincent 844‑286‑5546; Baptist Health 501‑202‑3900. (uamshealth.com, archildrens.org, chistvincent.com, baptist-health.com)

If you hit a snag (Plan B by scenario)

• Pregnant but denied pregnancy Medicaid: Check if your countable income used the correct household size. If still over, apply for ARHOME (138% FPL) or use a Marketplace SEP. Ask ADH clinics about prenatal care on a sliding scale and Maternal Life360 supports. (humanservices.arkansas.gov, healthcare.gov, healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Child denied ARKids B: Recheck income against the official table and submit any missing proof. If just over, look at employer coverage or Marketplace options; also ask your child’s hospital about financial assistance. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Lost Medicaid during renewal: Call Renew Arkansas 1‑844‑872‑2660 or the Access Arkansas Call Center 1‑855‑372‑1084 to fix contact info or submit proofs. Consider a Marketplace SEP if coverage can’t be reinstated. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Sources (key 2025‑dated rules and figures)

• 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines (HHS/ASPE and Federal Register). (aspe.hhs.gov, govinfo.gov)
• MAGI rules (no asset test for MAGI groups). (medicaid.gov)
• ARKids A/B official monthly income limits (effective April 1, 2025). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Pregnant Women Medicaid income level (209% FPL, Medicaid.gov state eligibility table). (medicaid.gov)
• ARHOME program basics and number. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• ARHOME cost‑sharing amounts (state DHS summary). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Adult dental FFS, $500 annual cap; dental transition to FFS. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Anticipated dental increase for adults with special needs (pending CMS, Sept 1, 2025). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• NET rides and 48‑hour rule; helpline. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Maternity services and Maternal Life360 contacts. (healthy.arkansas.gov, humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Postpartum policy status (60‑day limit still in effect). (arkansasadvocate.com)
• WIC (185% FPL) and ADH resources. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Local office map; state hotlines list. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Arkansas Department of Human Services, the Arkansas Department of Health, Medicaid.gov/CMS, and established nonprofits. It is produced under our Editorial Standards — primary sources only, links tested at publication, and policy changes tracked. We’re independent researchers (not a government agency) and cannot guarantee outcomes for individual cases. Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. If you spot an error or a change, email info@asinglemother.org — we investigate and update within 48 hours. (Editorial standards page updated August 2025.)

Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, and contacts can change. Always confirm with the relevant agency or your local DHS office before making decisions. Health content here is for general guidance and not medical or legal advice. We protect reader privacy and link only to official or well‑established resources; if you see a broken link or security issue, please report it to info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly. (aspe.hhs.gov, humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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If you want a quick personal checklist based on your county and income, tell me your household size, monthly income before taxes, pregnancy status, and county — I’ll map the fastest path and give you the right phone numbers for your local office and nearby clinics.

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🏛️More Arkansas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arkansas

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery