Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Michigan
Michigan Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers: Medicaid, MIChild (CHIP) & More [2025]
Last updated: September 2025
This is a real‑world, step‑by‑step guide for single moms in Michigan. It explains what you can get, how to apply fast, who to call, exact income limits and dollar amounts for 2025, and what to do if Plan A doesn’t work.
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Quick help (scan me first)
- Apply or upload documents online at MI Bridges. Start here: Apply for health coverage at MI Bridges (official portal). For tech help, call the MI Bridges Help Desk at 844‑799‑9876. (michigan.gov)
- For Medicaid/MIChild questions or a replacement mihealth card, call the Beneficiary Help Line at 800‑642‑3195. To pick or change your Medicaid health plan, call Michigan ENROLLS at 888‑367‑6557. (michigan.gov)
- Pregnant? You may qualify for Medicaid with 12 months of continuous postpartum coverage. See “Pregnancy Medicaid” below. (michigan.gov)
- Need breast or cervical cancer screening/treatment help? Call the BC3NP hotline 844‑446‑8727 (interpreters available). (michigan.gov)
- Dental for kids on Medicaid (through age 20): Healthy Kids Dental. Blue Cross Blue Shield Dental 800‑936‑0935; Delta Dental 866‑696‑7441. (michigan.gov)
- Mental health crisis: call or text 988 (MiCAL answers Michigan 988 calls 24/7). Peer Warmline 888‑PEER‑753 (10 a.m.–2 a.m.). (michigan.gov)
- Can’t get Medicaid? See Plan B options below (Marketplace subsidies, community health centers, hospital financial help, free/charitable clinics).
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What’s new or important for 2025
- 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPL) increased. All the income cutoffs in this guide use the January 2025 HHS poverty guidelines. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- Healthy Michigan Plan (Medicaid expansion) removed the MI Health Account and most cost‑sharing. Effective 2024; still in place for 2025. (michigan.gov)
- Doulas are covered for Medicaid‑insured pregnancies: up to 12 prenatal/postpartum visits at 100∗∗eachplus∗∗100** each plus **1,500 for labor/delivery support. (You don’t pay this; it’s what Medicaid pays providers.) (michigan.gov)
- MIChild (CHIP) premiums ended January 1, 2024. No co‑pays. (michigan.gov)
- Maternal coverage: Michigan provides 12 months of continuous postpartum Medicaid coverage. (michigan.gov)
- Transportation: Michigan posts statewide Medicaid non‑emergency medical transportation reimbursement maximums (for when MDHHS reimburses approved rides and travel costs). See table below. (michigan.gov)
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2025 income quick reference
All figures are before taxes and based on household size (count yourself and your children; if you’re pregnant, the unborn baby counts in household size for pregnancy Medicaid). Numbers are rounded to the nearest dollar.
Table A. 2025 FPL and common cutoffs used in Michigan programs (annual and monthly)
| Household size | 100% FPL (annual / monthly) | 138% FPL HMP adults 19–64 (annual / monthly) | 195% FPL (Plan First; often pregnancy pathways) (annual / monthly) | 200% FPL (annual / monthly) | 217% FPL (often children’s upper range) (annual / monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 15,650/15,650 / 1,304 | 21,597/21,597 / 1,800 | 30,518/30,518 / 2,543 | 31,300/31,300 / 2,608 | 33,971/33,971 / 2,831 |
| 2 | 21,150/21,150 / 1,763 | 29,187/29,187 / 2,432 | 41,243/41,243 / 3,437 | 42,300/42,300 / 3,525 | 45,896/45,896 / 3,825 |
| 3 | 26,650/26,650 / 2,221 | 36,777/36,777 / 3,065 | 51,968/51,968 / 4,331 | 53,300/53,300 / 4,442 | 57,831/57,831 / 4,819 |
| 4 | 32,150/32,150 / 2,679 | 44,367/44,367 / 3,697 | 62,693/62,693 / 5,224 | 64,300/64,300 / 5,358 | 69,766/69,766 / 5,814 |
| 5 | 37,650/37,650 / 3,138 | 51,957/51,957 / 4,330 | 73,418/73,418 / 6,118 | 75,300/75,300 / 6,275 | 81,701/81,701 / 6,808 |
| 6 | 43,150/43,150 / 3,596 | 59,547/59,547 / 4,962 | 84,143/84,143 / 7,012 | 86,300/86,300 / 7,192 | 93,636/93,636 / 7,803 |
| 7 | 48,650/48,650 / 4,054 | 67,137/67,137 / 5,595 | 94,868/94,868 / 7,906 | 97,300/97,300 / 8,108 | 105,571/105,571 / 8,798 |
| 8 | 54,150/54,150 / 4,513 | 74,727/74,727 / 6,227 | 105,593/105,593 / 8,799 | 108,300/108,300 / 9,025 | 117,506/117,506 / 9,792 |
Source: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines. Percent multiples shown are calculated from the HHS base guideline. (aspe.hhs.gov)
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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (programs, who qualifies, where to apply)
| Program | Who it’s for | Income rule (2025) | How to apply | Key phone/email |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthy Michigan Plan (HMP) | Adults age 19–64, not on Medicare, MI resident, not pregnant at application | Up to 138% FPL (see Table A) | Apply at MI Bridges | Michigan Health Care Helpline 855‑789‑5610; Michigan ENROLLS (plan choice) 888‑367‑6557 (michigan.gov) |
| Pregnancy Medicaid | Pregnant Michiganders; 12 months continuous postpartum coverage | MDHHS uses an income limit (Michigan also offers Plan First at 195% FPL if not otherwise eligible) | MI Bridges; local MDHHS office | Beneficiary Help Line 800‑642‑3195; MI Bridges Help Desk 844‑799‑9876 (michigan.gov) |
| MIChild (CHIP) | Uninsured children under 19 (higher income than Medicaid) | State uses FPL thresholds above children’s Medicaid; no premiums since 1/1/2024 | MI Bridges | MIChild 888‑988‑6300 (michigan.gov) |
| Healthy Kids (Medicaid for kids) | Children under 19 (plus Healthy Kids Dental) | Income‑based Medicaid; see notes in section | MI Bridges | Beneficiary Help Line 800‑642‑3195; Healthy Kids Dental plan numbers below (michigan.gov) |
| Plan First (Family Planning Only) | Any age/gender; not pregnant at application | Up to 195% FPL | MI Bridges | — (michigan.gov) |
| MIHP home visiting | Pregnant Medicaid members and infants (<12 months) | Medicaid‑enrolled/eligible | Contact MIHP provider | MIHP 833‑644‑6447; MIHP@michigan.gov (michigan.gov) |
| CSHCS (Children’s Special Health Care Services) | Children and some adults with qualifying diagnoses | Not income‑based; nominal yearly fee may apply (waived with Medicaid/MIChild) | Through local health dept/CSHCS | Family Phone Line 800‑359‑3722 (michigan.gov) |
| BC3NP cancer screening & BCC Medicaid | Women 21–64 (cervical) or 40–64 (breast); ≤250% FPL | Screening/diagnostics at BC3NP; treatment via special Medicaid if eligible | Call to find a local agency | BC3NP 844‑446‑8727 (michigan.gov) |
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How to apply fast (start here)
- The fastest way is MI Bridges (mobile‑friendly). Create/log in, complete the application, and upload photos of documents: MI Bridges — Apply for Healthcare. If you get stuck, use the built‑in Application Tracker or call the MI Bridges Help Desk 844‑799‑9876. (michigan.gov)
- Prefer in‑person? Use the MDHHS County Office directory (interactive map and text listings) to find your local office and phone. Universal caseload hotline (many counties): 844‑4MI‑DHHS (844‑464‑3447). Directory: Find your MDHHS county office. (mdhhs.michigan.gov, michigan.gov)
- Standard decision timelines: Medicaid 45 days, pregnancy Medicaid 15 days, disability‑related Medicaid 90 days. If you don’t hear back by these deadlines, call the Beneficiary Help Line 800‑642‑3195. (michigan.gov)
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Healthy Michigan Plan (HMP) — Medicaid for adults 19–64
Most important action first
- Apply today if your income is at or below the 138% FPL line for your household (Table A above). You can apply any time of year through MI Bridges; you’ll be enrolled in a Medicaid Health Plan after approval. (michigan.gov)
What HMP covers
- Primary care, specialists, hospital care, labs, prescriptions, behavioral health, dental, vision, and non‑emergency medical transportation (NEMT). Cost‑sharing is minimal; the MI Health Account and “Healthy Behaviors” requirements were discontinued in 2024. (michigan.gov)
How to apply
- Online at MI Bridges, by phone at the Michigan Health Care Helpline 855‑789‑5610, or in person at your local MDHHS office. After approval, Michigan ENROLLS will help you choose a health plan (888‑367‑6557). (michigan.gov)
Required documents (upload pictures in MI Bridges)
- ID, proof of Michigan residency, Social Security Number (if you have one), income proof (recent pay stubs or award letters), and immigration status (if not a U.S. citizen). (MI Bridges will list exactly what it needs.)
2025 income examples for HMP (138% FPL)
- 1 person: up to 21,597/year∗∗(about∗∗21,597/year** (about **1,800/month)
- 2 people: up to 29,187/year∗∗(∗∗29,187/year** (**2,432/month)
- 3 people: up to 36,777/year∗∗(∗∗36,777/year** (**3,065/month)
- 4 people: up to 44,367/year∗∗(∗∗44,367/year** (**3,697/month) (aspe.hhs.gov)
Common realities
- You might be auto‑assigned to a plan first; you can change plans within the allowed window by calling Michigan ENROLLS (888‑367‑6557). If you get a bill for a covered service, call your plan and the Beneficiary Help Line (800‑642‑3195). (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If your income is just over 138% FPL, check the federal Marketplace (HealthCare.gov) for income‑based premium tax credits and cost‑sharing reductions. Michigan’s Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) posts enrollment timelines and help resources every year. For 2025 plans, the last open‑enrollment deadline was January 15, 2025; special enrollment may apply after certain life events. For 2026 plans, open enrollment runs Nov 1, 2025–Jan 15, 2026. Free local help: LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov, or call 800‑318‑2596. (michigan.gov)
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Pregnancy Medicaid (full coverage) + 12‑month postpartum
Most important action first
- Apply as soon as you know you’re pregnant through MI Bridges. Michigan provides 12 months of continuous postpartum Medicaid coverage after the pregnancy ends, regardless of income changes during that period. (michigan.gov)
Eligibility and coverage
- Michigan’s pregnancy Medicaid has an income limit (the state does not list a single number on the overview page because it’s subject to MAGI rules), and there are backup options if you’re over the limit (Group 2 with a deductible or MOMS for non‑citizens). Coverage includes prenatal care, delivery, and full benefits postpartum for 12 months. (michigan.gov)
If you’re over the income limit or immigration status limits
- Group 2 Pregnant Women (Medicaid with a deductible/spend‑down): you can qualify by meeting a monthly deductible with medical bills. (michigan.gov)
- MOMS (Maternal Outpatient Medical Services): if you’re only eligible for Emergency Services Only (ESO) Medicaid, MOMS covers prenatal and certain postpartum outpatient care; ESO covers labor and delivery. (michigan.gov)
Extra supports you can add right away
- MIHP (Maternal Infant Health Program): free home/virtual visits with nurses and social workers during pregnancy and baby’s first year if you have (or are eligible for) Medicaid. Call 833‑644‑6447. (michigan.gov)
- Medicaid‑covered doulas: up to 12 prenatal/postpartum visits (combined) plus one labor/delivery support; Medicaid pays 100/visit∗∗and∗∗100/visit** and **1,500 for labor/delivery. Ask your OB/midwife to recommend doula services and search the MDHHS Doula Registry. (michigan.gov)
Common realities
- Pregnancy Medicaid decisions should be made within 15 days (faster than standard Medicaid). If it takes longer, call 800‑642‑3195. (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If you don’t qualify for full pregnancy Medicaid, apply for Plan First (195% FPL) to cover family planning services after delivery, and check Marketplace plans (often with low or $0 premiums if your income is near 150% FPL). (michigan.gov)
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Coverage for children: Healthy Kids (Medicaid), MIChild (CHIP) and Healthy Kids Dental
Most important action first
- Apply for your children through MI Bridges. Michigan screens for both Medicaid and MIChild automatically, and there are no MIChild premiums or co‑pays since January 1, 2024. (michigan.gov)
What’s covered
- Both programs cover doctor/dental/vision/behavioral health, hospital care, prescriptions, and NEMT.
Healthy Kids Dental (for all kids on Medicaid/MIChild through age 20)
- Plans: Blue Cross Blue Shield (Dental) 800‑936‑0935 and Delta Dental 866‑696‑7441. Use your plan’s directory to find a dentist who takes your child’s card. (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If your child doesn’t qualify based on income, call your county’s local health department for immunizations and school‑based services and check community health centers (sliding‑fee). Use HRSA’s locator: Find a Health Center near you. (data.hrsa.gov)
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Plan First (Family Planning Only) — up to 195% FPL
Most important action first
- If you’re not pregnant at application and your income is at/below 195% FPL (Table A), Plan First can cover annual well‑woman/well‑person exams, birth control, pregnancy testing and counseling, STI testing/treatment, and related labs/pharmacy. Apply in MI Bridges. (michigan.gov)
Reality checks
- Plan First is limited to family planning services. It is not full Medicaid and is not “minimum essential coverage.” Keep or seek comprehensive coverage if you can. (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- Check HealthCare.gov for subsidized plans; you may qualify for special enrollment if you had a life event (birth, loss of other coverage, etc.). (michigan.gov)
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Cancer screening and treatment pathway (BC3NP → Breast/Cervical Cancer Medicaid)
Most important action first
- If you’re 21–64 (cervical) or 40–64 (breast) and uninsured/under‑insured with income at or below 250% FPL, call the Breast & Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program at 844‑446‑8727 to schedule screening/diagnostic services. Interpreters available. (michigan.gov)
Treatment coverage
- If diagnosed through BC3NP, you may qualify for a special Medicaid category to cover treatment while you’re in active care. The program will help enroll you. (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- Ask the BC3NP agency to help you apply for hospital financial assistance if you’re denied Medicaid; most hospitals must have charity care policies. (General hospital charity standards are governed by federal rules for nonprofit hospitals.)
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Children’s Special Health Care Services (CSHCS) — now up to age 26
Most important action first
- If your child has a qualifying chronic condition, apply for CSHCS. It’s not income‑based; it helps with specialty care, care coordination, and can even help with insurance premiums. Eligibility expanded up to age 26. Family Phone Line: 800‑359‑3722. (michigan.gov)
How to apply
- Ask your child’s specialist to send a recent medical report to CSHCS (the program tells you exactly what’s needed). You can also contact your local health department’s CSHCS office for help. (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If diagnosis doesn’t meet CSHCS criteria, ask your Medicaid health plan about case management and check condition‑specific nonprofits for help with co‑pays and travel.
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Transportation to care (NEMT)
You may be able to get rides or mileage reimbursement to covered medical appointments if you have Medicaid and no other way to get there. If you’re enrolled in a Medicaid Health Plan, call your plan first. For fee‑for‑service cases, MDHHS posts statewide reimbursement maximums (effective January 1, 2025):
Table B. Michigan Medicaid NEMT reimbursement maximums (selected)
| Item | Max rate (where approved) |
|---|---|
| Mileage (self/volunteer/agency) | $0.70 per mile |
| Wheelchair van (round‑trip) | 35∗∗plus∗∗35** plus **0.70 per mile |
| Meals per diem (hospital facility) | $19 |
| Lodging (per night) | $75 |
| Attendant allowance (per day) | $15 |
Note: Receipts are required for meals/lodging; prior authorization may be needed for extended stays. Your health plan may use different vendors for scheduling rides. (michigan.gov)
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Mental health and substance use care
Most important action first
- In a crisis (you or your child): call or text 988. Michigan’s Crisis & Access Line (MiCAL) answers 24/7 and connects you with local help. (michigan.gov)
- Not a crisis but need support tonight? Michigan Peer Warmline 888‑PEER‑753 (10 a.m.–2 a.m.). (michigan.gov)
- For ongoing care, the public behavioral health system is organized by county/regional Community Mental Health (CMH/PIHP). Use the state map to find your local CMH crisis line and autism/ABA contacts: CMH/PIHP map and contacts. (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- Call your Medicaid health plan’s behavioral health number (on the back of your card) and ask for an urgent appointment. If uninsured, use HRSA’s health center locator for clinics with integrated behavioral health. (data.hrsa.gov)
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Where to get care if you don’t qualify today (Plan B options)
- Community Health Centers (sliding‑fee scale). Search by ZIP: Find a Health Center (HRSA). Many offer primary care, OB/GYN, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy services. (data.hrsa.gov)
- Free & Charitable Clinics of Michigan. Find a clinic by county: Free & Charitable Clinics of Michigan directory. (fcomi.org)
- Marketplace coverage. Outside open enrollment, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period after life events (e.g., birth, loss of coverage). See Michigan’s consumer page: Health Insurance in Michigan (DIFS). (michigan.gov)
- Lifeline phone discount (helps keep a phone for telehealth and plan calls): eligibility includes Medicaid or income ≤135% FPL — see the Michigan PSC Lifeline page to apply. (michigan.gov)
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Application Checklist (upload these in MI Bridges)
- Photo ID and proof of Michigan residency (MI license/ID, lease, mail)
- Social Security Number (if you have one) or proof you’ve applied
- Income proof (last 30 days of pay stubs; award letters for child support, unemployment, SSI/SSDI; self‑employment logs)
- Pregnancy verification (for pregnancy Medicaid)
- Immigration documents if applicable
Tip: Use the MI Bridges Application Tracker to see missing items. If you have tech issues, call 844‑799‑9876. (michigan.gov)
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Processing timelines and what to do if delayed
Table C. Standard of Promptness for Michigan (legal processing time limits)
| Program | Decision deadline |
|---|---|
| Pregnancy Medicaid | 15 days |
| Medicaid (non‑disability) | 45 days |
| Medicaid (requires disability decision) | 90 days |
If your case goes past these, call the Beneficiary Help Line 800‑642‑3195. You can also ask your local office supervisor or request an administrative hearing if benefits are denied or reduced. (michigan.gov)
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Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to apply. Michigan can only start coverage from the application month (and limited retroactive periods), so apply as soon as possible—even with missing documents, then upload later.
- Not answering mail or MI Bridges messages. Many denials happen because a verification request wasn’t answered by the due date. Turn on text/email alerts in MI Bridges.
- Picking a doctor outside your health plan network. Use the plan’s directory or call your plan before appointments.
- Skipping postpartum coverage steps. Even if income goes up, your Medicaid should continue for 12 months postpartum; call if you get a notice that looks wrong. (michigan.gov)
- Not using covered transportation. If you miss appointments because of rides, call your plan about NEMT or ask about mileage reimbursement as appropriate. (michigan.gov)
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Real‑world examples
- A single mom with two kids, income 2,350/month∗∗:ShequalifiesforHMPforherself(1382,350/month**: She qualifies for HMP for herself (138% FPL threshold for 1 is **1,800, but with children and tax household rules, MI Bridges will screen her across categories), and her children are screened for Medicaid/MIChild automatically. She applies at MI Bridges, uploads pay stubs from the last 30 days, and picks a plan after approval. (michigan.gov)
- Pregnant single mom, expecting one baby, income $3,500/month: She applies for pregnancy Medicaid (household counts unborn). If not eligible for full coverage, she asks about Group 2 (deductible) or gets MOMS (plus ESO for delivery) and enrolls in MIHP and doula services; postpartum coverage continues for 12 months if she qualifies for pregnancy Medicaid. (michigan.gov)
- No insurance and can’t get Medicaid: She books primary care at a HRSA health center on a sliding‑fee scale and uses the Free & Charitable Clinics directory for dental. (data.hrsa.gov, fcomi.org)
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Diverse Communities: tailored help and rights
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Medicaid plans must cover medically necessary care without discrimination. You can request an LGBTQ‑competent provider through your plan’s member services. If you face discrimination, you can file a complaint under federal Section 1557 (nondiscrimination in health programs). (See references on MDHHS pages.) (michigan.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with children with disabilities: Ask your health plan for care management. For qualifying diagnoses, apply to CSHCS (now up to age 26). Use NEMT for rides. (michigan.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: You can combine VA care with Medicaid/Marketplace as secondary. For help coordinating, call your county veteran service office and your Medicaid plan’s member services.
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: If not eligible for full Medicaid due to status, apply for MOMS plus ESA/ESO for delivery care; also check the federal Marketplace (no 5‑year bar for Marketplace assistance). (michigan.gov)
- Tribal citizens: You can use IHS/Tribal health clinics and still enroll in Medicaid or Marketplace plans. Many CHCs in Michigan partner with Tribal programs; use the HRSA locator for nearby clinics. (data.hrsa.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited internet/transportation: Use Lifeline for phone discounts (keeps a phone for telehealth and your plan’s calls). Ask your plan about mileage reimbursement if you drive yourself; check NEMT for long distances and lodging. (michigan.gov)
- Single fathers (as custodial parents) and kin caregivers: Most programs are open based on the child’s needs and household income, not gender. Use MI Bridges to apply the same way. (michigan.gov)
- Language access: You have a right to free interpreter services from Medicaid plans and state programs. Tell your plan or the office when you call.
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Resources by region (find local offices and public health)
- MDHHS county offices (addresses and phone numbers): County Office Directory (interactive). For general case questions in universal‑caseload counties, call 844‑464‑3447. (mdhhs.michigan.gov, michigan.gov)
- Local health departments (immunizations, WIC, clinics, screening programs): Local Health Department map & directory. (michigan.gov)
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Key phone numbers and links (printable)
Table D. Hotlines and portals
| Need | Where to go |
|---|---|
| Apply/renew, upload documents | MI Bridges; Help Desk 844‑799‑9876 (michigan.gov) |
| Medicaid benefits questions | Beneficiary Help Line 800‑642‑3195 (michigan.gov) |
| Choose/change Medicaid plan | Michigan ENROLLS 888‑367‑6557 (michigan.gov) |
| MIChild | 888‑988‑6300 (no premiums, no co‑pays) (michigan.gov) |
| Healthy Kids Dental | Blue Cross 800‑936‑0935; Delta Dental 866‑696‑7441 (michigan.gov) |
| MIHP home visiting | 833‑644‑6447; MIHP@michigan.gov (michigan.gov) |
| BC3NP cancer screening | 844‑446‑8727 (interpreters available) (michigan.gov) |
| CSHCS (special health care needs) | Family Phone Line 800‑359‑3722 (michigan.gov) |
| Mental health crisis | 988 (MiCAL 24/7) (michigan.gov) |
| Peer Warmline (non‑crisis) | 888‑PEER‑753 (10 a.m.–2 a.m.) (michigan.gov) |
| Find a low‑cost clinic | HRSA Find a Health Center (data.hrsa.gov) |
| Free/charitable clinics | Free & Charitable Clinics of Michigan — find by county (fcomi.org) |
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Timelines: what to expect
- You should receive a decision on pregnancy Medicaid within 15 days; other Medicaid within 45 days (90 for disability‑related). MI Bridges now has an Application Tracker that shows each step. If your case is late, call 800‑642‑3195 or send a message in your MI Bridges account. (michigan.gov)
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Detailed 2025 numbers you can use today
Table E. Examples you can line up against your household (selected programs)
| Household size | HMP adult limit (138% FPL) | Plan First & common pregnancy pathway point (195% FPL) | BC3NP max (250% FPL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 21,597/yr∗∗(∗∗21,597/yr** (**1,800/mo) | 30,518/yr∗∗(∗∗30,518/yr** (**2,543/mo) | $39,125/yr |
| 2 | 29,187/yr∗∗(∗∗29,187/yr** (**2,432/mo) | 41,243/yr∗∗(∗∗41,243/yr** (**3,437/mo) | $52,875/yr |
| 3 | 36,777/yr∗∗(∗∗36,777/yr** (**3,065/mo) | 51,968/yr∗∗(∗∗51,968/yr** (**4,331/mo) | $66,625/yr |
| 4 | 44,367/yr∗∗(∗∗44,367/yr** (**3,697/mo) | 62,693/yr∗∗(∗∗62,693/yr** (**5,224/mo) | $80,375/yr |
Notes: HMP = Healthy Michigan Plan. BC3NP screening/diagnostic eligibility is ≤250% FPL; Medicaid postpartum coverage is 12 months for those enrolled in pregnancy Medicaid. Sources: HHS 2025 FPL and MDHHS program pages. (aspe.hhs.gov, michigan.gov)
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Marketplace coverage (when Medicaid isn’t an option)
- DIFS confirms open‑enrollment windows and consumer help every year. For plan year 2025, the final deadline was Jan 15, 2025 (coverage starting Feb 1 for late sign‑ups). For plan year 2026, open enrollment runs Nov 1, 2025–Jan 15, 2026 (Dec 18 selection for Jan 1 start). Free local enrollment help: LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov or 800‑318‑2596. (michigan.gov)
Reality check
- If most of your care is for kids, compare your employer plan or Marketplace plan premiums with Medicaid/MIChild eligibility for the kids (MI Bridges screens kids separately; many children qualify even when a parent does not). (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- Use HRSA health centers and Free & Charitable Clinics while you re‑apply or wait for a Special Enrollment Period. (data.hrsa.gov, fcomi.org)
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“What if I get denied or something looks wrong?”
- First call the Beneficiary Help Line 800‑642‑3195 and your local office. If you still disagree, you can appeal (administrative hearing). See MDHHS “Beneficiary Support” for forms and contacts. (michigan.gov)
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FAQs (Michigan‑specific)
- How long will my Medicaid application take?
- Pregnancy Medicaid 15 days; others 45 days (90 days if a disability decision is needed). (michigan.gov)
- I lost my mihealth card. How do I get a new one?
- Call 800‑642‑3195 or request via myHealthPortal. (michigan.gov)
- Who do I call to pick or change my Medicaid health plan?
- Michigan ENROLLS 888‑367‑6557. (michigan.gov)
- Are MIChild premiums still a thing?
- No. As of Jan 1, 2024, MIChild has no premiums and no co‑pays. (michigan.gov)
- Does Medicaid cover a doula?
- Yes. Medicaid covers up to 12 prenatal/postpartum doula visits and $1,500 for labor support (paid to the doula). Ask your provider for a doula recommendation. (michigan.gov)
- I need a ride to the doctor. Who do I contact?
- Call your Medicaid health plan for rides; fee‑for‑service cases follow MDHHS NEMT rules (see mileage and lodging rates above). (michigan.gov)
- My baby will be born soon. Will my newborn have coverage?
- Newborns of Medicaid‑enrolled parents are automatically covered for the first year when reported to MDHHS; ask your hospital or local office to make sure the newborn is added promptly.
- Where can I find a dentist for my child?
- Healthy Kids Dental: BCBS Dental 800‑936‑0935; Delta Dental 866‑696‑7441; use plan directories to select a dentist. (michigan.gov)
- I don’t know who my MDHHS worker is.
- In universal‑caseload counties, call 844‑464‑3447 for case info; otherwise use the county office directory. (michigan.gov)
- Is there help if I’m uninsured and don’t qualify for Medicaid?
- Yes: HRSA health centers (sliding‑fee), Free & Charitable Clinics of Michigan by county, and Marketplace subsidies if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. (data.hrsa.gov, fcomi.org)
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What we saw missing in other guides (and we fixed it)
- Most search results didn’t give 2025 dollar limits from HHS, didn’t include Plan First’s 195% FPL rule, doula visit/labor payment amounts, the new NEMT mileage/lodging rates, or the 12‑month postpartum rule in one place with direct links. We consolidated all of these with official citations and provided exact phone numbers, office locators, timelines, and a step‑by‑step “Plan B” for when eligibility is tricky. (aspe.hhs.gov, michigan.gov)
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About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), HHS/ASPE, CMS, and established nonprofits. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
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Disclaimer
- Program rules, income limits, reimbursement rates, and contact numbers can change. Always verify details with the relevant agency or your Medicaid health plan. We link to official sources and helplines throughout this guide.
- Health content here is for general information. It is not medical, legal, or tax advice. Protect your privacy: when emailing or messaging agencies, avoid sharing full SSNs or medical details unless the site or portal is secure (MI Bridges is secure). Keep your MI Bridges account protected with a strong password and two‑factor authentication where available.
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Sources (dated and official)
- 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines (ASPE). Posted January 2025. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- Healthy Michigan Plan: eligibility; program changes (MI Health Account removed; co‑pays reduced). (michigan.gov)
- How to apply; state consumer guidance and 2025/2026 Marketplace timelines (DIFS). (michigan.gov)
- MIChild updates — premiums eliminated 1/1/2024; dental plan contacts (HKD). (michigan.gov)
- Pregnancy Medicaid overview; MOMS; Group 2 Pregnant Women; 12‑month postpartum coverage. (michigan.gov)
- MIHP home visiting — eligibility and contact. (michigan.gov)
- Doulas — Medicaid coverage and 2024 rate/visit expansion. (michigan.gov)
- NEMT rate schedule (effective Jan 1, 2025). (michigan.gov)
- CSHCS — general info; age expansion to 26 (policy bulletin). (michigan.gov)
- BC3NP — eligibility up to 250% FPL; contact and services. (michigan.gov)
- MI Bridges — application tracker and help desk. (michigan.gov)
- Decision timelines — Standard of Promptness. (michigan.gov)
- Beneficiary Support and key hotlines. (michigan.gov)
- CMH/PIHP map; 988/MiCAL; Peer Warmline. (michigan.gov)
- County office locator (interactive directory) and universal caseload hotline. (mdhhs.michigan.gov, michigan.gov)
- HRSA Find a Health Center (official widget). Free & Charitable Clinics of Michigan directory. (data.hrsa.gov, fcomi.org)
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If you need one‑on‑one help picking the right path, start a MI Bridges application and call the Beneficiary Help Line at 800‑642‑3195. They can see your case and tell you exactly what’s missing. (michigan.gov)
Good luck — and save this page so you can come back to the phone numbers and deadlines.
🏛️More Michigan Resources for Single Mothers
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