Colorado Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers: Medicaid, CHP+ & More [2025]

Last updated: September 2025

This no‑fluff guide shows you exactly how to get medical, dental, mental health, and prenatal care covered in Colorado—fast. Every number and rule below comes from official state or federal sources, with direct links so you can verify.

Quick Help Box (read this first)

• Apply online for Medicaid/CHP+ now at the Colorado PEAK portal. If approved, coverage can start the same day and is retroactive up to 3 months in some cases. Use live chat or call PEAK tech help at 1‑800‑250‑7741. Apply on Colorado PEAK (official portal). (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Pregnant? You may get immediate temporary coverage through Presumptive Eligibility at approved clinics—no citizenship proof needed for the initial temp coverage. Find a PE site on the state map tool. Find a Presumptive Eligibility site. (hcpf.colorado.gov, apps.colorado.gov)
• To ask Medicaid a question or check your case by phone, call the Health First Colorado Member Contact Center at 1‑800‑221‑3943 (Relay 711), Mon–Fri 8:00–4:30. Member Contact Center details. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Children and pregnant people can qualify for CHP+ up to about 260% of FPL (see income table below). CHP+ pregnancy care has no copays. CHP+ program page. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Uninsured hospital bill? Ask for Hospital Discounted Care right away. If your income is ≤250% FPL, your bills must be limited to state‑set rates with affordable payment plans capped at 2–6% of monthly income. Hospital Discounted Care (HDC). (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Marketplace plans (non‑Medicaid) are sold through Connect for Health Colorado. Open Enrollment for 2026 coverage is Nov 1, 2025 – Jan 15, 2026. Call 855‑752‑6749 for free enrollment help. Buying insurance info and Connect for Health Customer Service. (hcpf.colorado.gov, connectforhealthco.com)
• Undocumented? Two options in 2025: (1) Cover All Coloradans for children, pregnant people, and 12‑month postpartum—Medicaid/CHP+‑like benefits; (2) OmniSalud low‑cost private plans with $0 premium if income <150% FPL (limited slots). Call Colorado Connect at 855‑675‑2626. Cover All Coloradans and OmniSalud + SilverEnhanced Savings. (hcpf.colorado.gov, doi.colorado.gov)
• Need a ride to the doctor on Medicaid? Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) is covered. In the Denver metro 9‑county area, call Transdev 303‑398‑2155 or 855‑489‑4999 at least 48 hours ahead. NEMT info and providers. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Mental health crisis, any time: Call 1‑844‑493‑8255 or text TALK to 38255 (routes into 988 starting July 1, 2025). Colorado Crisis Services and 988 in Colorado. (coloradocrisisservices.org, bha.colorado.gov)

What’s new in Colorado for 2025 (important updates)

• Postpartum coverage is a full 12 months for Medicaid/CHP+, including for miscarriage. Cover All Coloradans FAQ. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Adult Medicaid dental has no annual cap (effective July 1, 2023) and is administered by DentaQuest: 1‑855‑225‑1729. Dental benefits. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Doulas are a covered Medicaid benefit (effective July 1, 2024). HCPF press release. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Colorado’s Indigent Care Program (CICP) ended July 1, 2025. Hospitals now use Hospital Discounted Care and their own sliding fee programs. CICP transition notice. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Hospital Discounted Care (HDC) sets payment plans at max 4% of monthly income for hospital bills (2% for professional bills, 6% combined) with remainder forgiven after 36 months of payments. HDC policy summary. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• NEMT is brokered by Transdev in Denver metro; outside metro, use local providers listed by county; mileage reimbursement is statewide through Transdev. NEMT page + provider list. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Table 1 — 2025 Health First Colorado (Medicaid) monthly income guide (approximate)

Source: Health First Colorado “Do you qualify?” (updated 2025). These are approximations and may update each April after FPL changes. See official chart. (healthfirstcolorado.com)

Table 2 — CHP+ (Child Health Plan Plus) monthly income guide (effective April 1, 2025)

Notes: CHP+ covers children and pregnant people who are over Medicaid income limits but under this cap. Enrollment fee was eliminated; some services may have small copays, but pregnancy care has no copays. CHP+ details. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Table 3 — Hospital Discounted Care (HDC) income examples (250% FPL)

If approved, hospitals must cap payment plans at 4% (hospital), 2% (physician), or 6% combined of monthly income; any remaining balance is forgiven after 36 months of payments. HDC rules. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Table 4 — Typical timelines

Table 5 — Key phone numbers you’ll actually use

Table 6 — 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines (48 states incl. CO)

Source: HHS/ASPE 2025 poverty guidelines. Poverty Guidelines (HHS). (aspe.hhs.gov)

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Health First Colorado (Medicaid): what to do today

Most important action

Apply on PEAK now. If pregnant or applying for a child, ask a clinic if they are a Presumptive Eligibility site for same‑day temporary coverage while your full application is processed. Apply on PEAK and find a PE site. (hcpf.colorado.gov, apps.colorado.gov)

Who qualifies (quick rules)

• Adults 19–65 with incomes at or below the amounts in Table 1.
• Children 0–18 and pregnant people have higher income limits (Table 1); pregnant people get 12 months postpartum coverage once pregnancy is reported.
• Cover All Coloradans (from Jan 1, 2025) extends full Medicaid/CHP+‑like coverage to eligible children and pregnant people regardless of immigration status. (healthfirstcolorado.com, hcpf.colorado.gov)

Benefits single moms ask about most

• Prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care for 12 months; doula services covered.
• Medical, dental (no annual cap for adults), vision, behavioral health; 24/7 Nurse Advice Line 1‑800‑283‑3221.
• Transportation to covered care (NEMT) when you have no ride—see numbers above. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

How to apply (fastest order)

• Online at PEAK (create account, upload docs, check status).
• Mobile app: “Health First Colorado” (view card, update info).
• By phone: 1‑800‑221‑3943 (Relay 711).
• In person at your county human services office or a Medical Assistance site (use the state directory). (hcpf.colorado.gov, apps.apple.com, cdhs.colorado.gov)

Documents you’ll likely need

• Photo ID (for adults if available).
• Social Security numbers (if you have them).
• Immigration document numbers (if applicable).
• Proof of Colorado address (recent mail, lease, utility).
• Income proof: recent pay stubs, employer letter, unemployment, SSA/SSI letters.
• Any current insurance info (policy numbers). See Denver’s checklist (applies statewide). Applying for Medical Care Benefits – Denver. (denvergov.org)

Real‑world example

Maria earns $2,900/month\ast \ast andhastwokids(householdof3).AdultlimitforMedicaidadultsisabout\ast \ast$2,954 (Table 1), so Maria likely qualifies for full Medicaid for herself and for her children (children’s limit is higher). If Maria’s income rises above the adult limit, her kids may still qualify for Medicaid or CHP+. (healthfirstcolorado.com)

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Missing the 30‑day deadline to submit requested verifications—set reminders and upload in PEAK.
• Not reporting pregnancy or birth: you must report to activate 12‑month postpartum and newborn coverage.
• Moving and not updating your address/phone—leads to lost mail and terminations.
• Ignoring scams asking you to pay fees to keep coverage; Medicaid/CHP+ will never ask for bank/credit card by phone or text. Scam alert. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call the Member Contact Center 1‑800‑221‑3943; ask for a supervisor if your case is stuck.
• Visit your county human services office in person (bring documents); ask for a same‑day case check.
• If denied, re‑apply—income limits update each April. If over income, jump to CHP+ or Marketplace help below. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+): low‑cost coverage for kids and pregnancy over Medicaid limits

Most important action

If your income is too high for Medicaid but at or under the CHP+ amounts in Table 2, apply today on PEAK or Connect for Health. Pregnancy care on CHP+ has no copays and coverage lasts 12 months postpartum once you report the pregnancy. CHP+ program page. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Who qualifies

• Colorado children 18 and under and pregnant people.
• Household income up to ~260% FPL (see Table 2) and not eligible for Medicaid.
• No other insurance (with limited exceptions). (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Costs & benefits

• No enrollment fee. Small copays for some services; preventive and pregnancy care have no copays.
• Dental for kids and pregnant people through DentaQuest; dental benefits up to $1,000/year for CHP+ members. CHP+ Dental. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Real‑world example

Keisha earns $4,500/month\ast \ast withafamilyof2(herself+child).She’sovertheadultMedicaidlimitbutundertheCHP+limit(\ast \ast$4,583) for a 2‑person household, so her child can enroll in CHP+. Keisha may need a Marketplace plan for herself with a tax credit (see below). (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Not reporting pregnancy or the baby’s birth to have 12‑month postpartum coverage and automatic newborn coverage.
• Forgetting the 5% out‑of‑pocket annual cap—track your family copays and call CHP+ Customer Service 1‑800‑359‑1991 if you hit it. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your income changed, re‑apply for Medicaid.
• If you’re over income for CHP+, look at Marketplace subsidies via Connect for Health or OmniSalud if undocumented. (hcpf.colorado.gov, doi.colorado.gov)

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Marketplace coverage (Connect for Health Colorado)

Most important action

Mark the enrollment window: Nov 1, 2025 – Jan 15, 2026 for 2026 plans. Use free local help to find the cheapest Colorado Option plan and get tax credits. Call 855‑752‑6749. How to buy insurance. (hcpf.colorado.gov, connectforhealthco.com)

Why this matters in 2025

• Colorado’s reinsurance program is projected to lower 2025 premiums by an average 23.8% (about $1,500/year\ast \ast fora40‑year‑old;upto\ast \ast$5,800 for a family of four), with Colorado Option plans often the lowest cost. Division of Insurance release. (doi.colorado.gov)

How to maximize savings

• Update projected 2026 income; even modest changes can boost your Advance Premium Tax Credit.
• Check Colorado Option plans—standardized benefits make costs easier to compare.
• Get in‑person help (free): Assisters and brokers are available statewide. Find help. (connectforhealthco.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you’re undocumented or not subsidy‑eligible on Connect for Health, see OmniSalud below.
• If you missed Open Enrollment, you may still enroll with a qualifying life event (new baby, loss of coverage, move). (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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OmniSalud (for undocumented Coloradans)

Most important action

If your income is under 150% FPL, apply for OmniSalud’s “Silver Enhanced 94%” plan on Colorado Connect for $0 premium (limited funded slots; renew early). Call 855‑675‑2626 for enrollment help in your language. OmniSalud overview (DOI). (doi.colorado.gov)

Key facts

• SilverEnhanced Savings lowers premiums to $0andslashesdeductibles/out‑of‑pocketcosts(e.g.,$100 individual deductible; $1,000 OOP max shown in program examples). Slots are capped each year. SilverEnhanced Savings. (connectforhealthco.com)
• For children and pregnant people, first check Cover All Coloradans (full Medicaid/CHP+‑like benefits). Cover All Coloradans. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If SilverEnhanced slots are full, you can still buy a Colorado Option plan at full price via Colorado Connect and use Hospital Discounted Care at hospitals if income ≤250% FPL. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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Emergency Medicaid & Family Planning

Emergency Medicaid (EMS)

• Covers emergency care and labor/delivery for people who meet Medicaid income rules but not immigration/citizenship rules. It does not cover routine prenatal or postpartum care.
• Also includes family planning services through the state’s expansion. Programs for Adults (EMS). (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Family Planning Limited (FAMPL)

• For people with incomes 133%–260% FPL who don’t qualify for full Medicaid: covers contraception, STI testing/treatment, cervical cancer screening, and related services—no copays.
• Presumptive Eligibility is available for FAMPL. Family Planning expansion manual. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Breast & Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP)

• For uninsured adults diagnosed with breast/cervical cancer up to 250% FPL; provides full Medicaid benefits during treatment (some age criteria apply). BCCP. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Use Title X clinics for low‑cost family planning regardless of status; find a clinic by county. CDPHE Family Planning clinics. (cdphe.colorado.gov)

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Hospital Discounted Care (HDC): slash hospital bills legally

Most important action

If you have a hospital or ER bill and your income is at or below 250% FPL, request a Hospital Discounted Care application immediately. Hospitals must screen you and cap charges to state‑set rates with affordable payment plans (details below). HDC program page. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Your rights under HDC

• Mandatory screening for Medicaid/CHP+, Emergency Medicaid, and HDC at the hospital.
• Payment plans capped at 4% (hospital bills), 2% (physician bills), or 6% combined of monthly income.
• Make payments for 36 months; any remaining balance is forgiven.
• Appeals: If not determined within 21 days or you disagree, you can appeal to the hospital and HCPF. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask for a patient advocate or financial counselor.
• File a complaint with HCPF or contact the Colorado Division of Insurance consumer services if you believe your rights under HDC were violated. HDC info. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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Transportation to care (Medicaid NEMT)

Most important action

If you’re on Medicaid and don’t have a ride, schedule NEMT at least 48 hours before your appointment. Denver metro: Transdev 303‑398‑2155 or 855‑489‑4999. For other counties, use the state’s provider list. Mileage reimbursement is managed by Transdev statewide. NEMT info + service areas. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Reality check and tips

• High demand and limited drivers can mean delays—schedule early and confirm.
• Keep your appointment letter handy; trips must be for covered services to enrolled providers.
• Save receipts/mileage logs if you’re claiming reimbursement. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call your Regional Organization (RAE) care coordination line for help with transportation barriers (see “Regional help” below). (healthfirstcolorado.com)

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Mental and behavioral health

Crisis now

• Call 1‑844‑493‑8255 or text TALK to 38255 for 24/7 help statewide; starting July 1, 2025, calls/texts route into the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line. Walk‑in centers are open across the state. Colorado Crisis Services and 988 info. (coloradocrisisservices.org, bha.colorado.gov)

Youth therapy

• “I Matter” gives Colorado youth up to six free therapy sessions; now permanent under state law (May 2024). I Matter. (imattercolorado.org)

Medicaid behavioral health

• Your Regional Organization (RAE) manages behavioral health benefits and can connect you to a provider and care coordination. Find your RAE and call Member Services: Colorado Access (800‑511‑5010), CCHA (855‑627‑4685), Northeast Health Partners (800‑541‑6870), Health Colorado (888‑502‑4185). RAE list. (healthfirstcolorado.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your RAE for an expedited appointment or a telehealth option; if you can’t get timely care, call the Member Contact Center (1‑800‑221‑3943) to file a grievance. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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Dental & vision basics (Medicaid/CHP+)

• Adults on Medicaid: exams, cleanings, fillings, root canals, crowns, dentures—no annual cap since July 1, 2023; DentaQuest member line 1‑855‑225‑1729.
• Kids on Medicaid/CHP+: comprehensive EPSDT benefits—medically necessary services must be covered even beyond normal limits. Vision includes routine exams and glasses; adults get annual exam and glasses after eye surgery. Dental benefits, EPSDT, Vision benefit. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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Real‑world scenarios (with Plan B)

• You’re 20 weeks pregnant, no insurance, not a citizen: Go to a Presumptive Eligibility site for same‑day temporary coverage, then apply for full coverage under Cover All Coloradans. Hospital delivery is covered under Emergency Medicaid if needed, but prenatal care is through Cover All or CHP+ Prenatal/PE depending on eligibility. Plan B: If paperwork is delayed, ask the clinic about sliding‑fee visits and keep all receipts. PE factsheet, Cover All Coloradans. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• You have a $12,000hospitalbillandmake\ast \ast$3,400/month** as a family of 1: You’re around 250% FPL. Request Hospital Discounted Care; your payment plan must be capped at about 4% (~$136/month) and any remaining balance is forgiven after 36 months. Plan B: If the hospital denies or delays beyond 21 days, appeal and notify HCPF. HDC. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Your income is just above Medicaid limits, but your 7‑year‑old needs a dentist: Apply for your child under CHP+. Plan B: If paperwork is pending, ask your clinic for Presumptive Eligibility for the child or use a community health center sliding fee scale for urgent care. CHP+ and CCHN health center finder (directory). (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• Proof of identity (adults), Social Security numbers if available
• Proof of Colorado residency (recent bill/lease)
• Proof of income (last 30 days pay stubs, SSA/SSI letters, employer letter)
• Pregnancy verification (for PE or pregnancy coverage)
• Current insurance cards/policy numbers (if any)
• Immigration documents (only if applicable and you choose to provide)
• A working phone and email (so the county can reach you)
• Your bank is NOT required—don’t share card or bank info with anyone claiming to be from Medicaid/CHP+. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid (we see these a lot)

• Waiting until delivery to apply—apply by PEAK now; prenatal coverage matters for you and baby.
• Not using Presumptive Eligibility when you can—it’s there to cover care immediately.
• Missing a ride because you called NEMT the day before—book 48 hours ahead and confirm.
• Ignoring a hospital bill—ask for HDC screening within 30 days and set a payment plan you can afford.
• Believing old advice about CICP—CICP ended July 1, 2025; ask about HDC and your hospital’s sliding fee program instead. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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Where to get in‑person help (free)

• County human services offices (state directory with phones/addresses). Find your county office. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
• Certified application assistance & Presumptive Eligibility sites (state map). Application Assistance Map. (apps.colorado.gov)
• Marketplace help (Connect for Health—assisters/brokers). Customer Service. (connectforhealthco.com)

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Regional help (RAEs) for Medicaid care coordination

Your Regional Organization can help find doctors, behavioral health, transportation solutions, and social service referrals. Call the Member Services for your area:

• Colorado Access (Adams, Arapahoe, Denver, Douglas): 800‑511‑5010
• Colorado Community Health Alliance (Boulder, Broomfield, Clear Creek, El Paso, Gilpin, Jefferson, Park, Teller): 855‑627‑4685
• Northeast Health Partners (Baca, Bent, Cheyenne, Crowley, Elbert, Kiowa, Kit Carson, Larimer, Lincoln, Logan, Morgan, Otero, Phillips, Prowers, Sedgwick, Washington, Weld, Yuma): 800‑541‑6870
• Health Colorado, Inc. (Alamosa, Chaffee, Conejos, Costilla, Custer, Fremont, Huerfano, Kiowa, Lake, Las Animas, Mineral, Otero, Prowers, Pueblo, Rio Grande, Saguache, Baca, Bent): 888‑502‑4185

Find your RAE on your ID card or here: Health First Colorado Regional Organizations. (healthfirstcolorado.com)

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Local organizations & clinics (low‑cost or sliding fee)

• Community Health Centers (statewide sliding‑fee clinics; enrollment help). Use the Colorado Community Health Network directory to find a clinic near you. Find a health center. (Directory site)
• Denver Health: financial counseling and enrollment; HDC and sliding‑fee programs; call 303‑602‑3466. Financial Assistance. (denverhealth.org)
• Clinica Family Health (Boulder, Broomfield, Jefferson, Adams): sliding fee and enrollment help. Clinica Financial Assistance. (clinica.org)
• Salud Family Health Centers (Front Range & Eastern Plains): medical, dental, behavioral health; sliding fee; enrollment help. Salud Family Health Centers. (saludclinic.org)
• Tepeyac Community Health Center (Denver): Medicaid/CHP+, sliding fee, assistance with applications. Call 303‑458‑5302. Payment & Insurance Options. (tepeyachealth.org)
• 2‑1‑1 Colorado: Dial 211 or (866) 760‑6489 for referrals to clinics, transport, diapers, rent help; live chat available. 211 Colorado. (211colorado.org)

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Diverse Communities: practical notes and resources

LGBTQ+ single mothers

• Medicaid/CHP+/Marketplace plans must cover medically necessary care and mental health. Crisis lines include 988 and Colorado Crisis Services; ask your RAE for LGBTQ‑friendly providers. 988 Colorado. (bha.colorado.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children

• EPSDT (under 21) covers all medically necessary services to “correct or ameliorate” a condition—no arbitrary visit caps. Ask your provider to submit EPSDT requests if something is denied. EPSDT. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Veteran single mothers

• If you served, check VA eligibility first; if uninsured and income‑eligible, you can still apply for Medicaid. Also ask your county Veterans Service Office for help pairing VA and Medicaid coverage.

Immigrant/refugee single moms

• For pregnancy/children: use Cover All Coloradans. For adults: OmniSalud ($0 premium under 150% FPL while funds last). Using these programs is not considered for “public charge.” Cover All Coloradans, OmniSalud. (hcpf.colorado.gov, doi.colorado.gov)

Tribal citizens

• American Indians/Alaska Natives have special cost‑sharing protections (e.g., CHP+ has no copays for AI/AN). Ask your clinic’s patient navigator to code this correctly. CHP+ copay info. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access

• Use NEMT early; keep a list of local approved providers from the state’s NEMT service‑area list. Telehealth is widely covered; RAEs can help coordinate. NEMT service areas. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Single fathers caring for kids

• All child and pregnancy‑related programs apply to the child regardless of the parent’s gender or marital status. Use CHP+ for kids even if the parent is over income for adult Medicaid.

Language access

• Connect for Health, Colorado Connect (OmniSalud), county offices, RAEs, and crisis lines provide no‑cost interpreter services. Ask for an interpreter; it’s your right. OmniSalud help (free, multilingual). (connectforhealthco.com)

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Step‑by‑step: How to actually get covered this week

• Today: Apply on PEAK and upload income proof; if pregnant or applying for a child, call a PE site for same‑day temp coverage.
• Within 48 hours: If you have appointments but no ride, schedule NEMT.
• If denied for Medicaid: Check CHP+ for your children and Connect for Health for yourself; if undocumented adult, check OmniSalud.
• If you have a hospital bill: Request HDC screening immediately and set a capped payment plan; appeal if no decision in 21 days. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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10 Colorado‑specific FAQs (2025)

• How fast can I get coverage if I’m pregnant?
  Presumptive Eligibility can start same day at approved sites; full coverage lasts through pregnancy and 12 months postpartum once you report your pregnancy/birth. PE factsheet; CAC FAQ. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• My income is a little over the adult Medicaid limit—are my kids still eligible?
  Yes. Children’s and pregnancy limits are higher than adult limits and update each April. Check Table 1 and apply. Do you qualify?. (healthfirstcolorado.com)
• Are there copays on Medicaid?
  Colorado is phasing out many copays; core services (inpatient, outpatient, primary/specialty, labs, radiology, prescriptions) have no copays per HCPF policy updates. HCPF copay update. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• How do I find a dentist who takes Medicaid?
  Call DentaQuest at 1‑855‑225‑1729 or use the Find a Doctor tool. Adult dental has no annual cap. Dental benefits. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• I’m undocumented. Can I get coverage for my pregnancy?
  Yes. From Jan 1, 2025, pregnant people qualify under Cover All Coloradans (Medicaid/CHP+ look‑alike). If you don’t qualify or need non‑pregnancy coverage, look at OmniSalud plans (possible $0 premium under 150% FPL). CAC & OmniSalud. (hcpf.colorado.gov, doi.colorado.gov)
• How long will my application take?
  Online decisions can be immediate; mailed applications can take up to 45 days (90 with disability review). Track status in PEAK. CAC FAQ. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Can Medicaid give me a ride?
  Yes. Schedule at least 48 hours in advance; Denver metro call Transdev 303‑398‑2155 or 855‑489‑4999; other counties use local providers. NEMT info. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• I got a huge ER bill—what are my rights?
  If income ≤250% FPL, ask for Hospital Discounted Care; payment plans are capped at 2–6% of monthly income; after 36 months of payments, the rest is forgiven. HDC. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Is adult vision covered?
  Yes: annual eye exam for adults; glasses/contacts covered after eye surgery. Kids get routine exams and glasses under EPSDT. Vision benefit. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Where can I get quick help filling out forms near me?
  Use the county directory or the state Application Assistance Map to find a nearby site that helps with Medicaid/CHP+ applications. County directory and Assistance Map. (cdhs.colorado.gov, apps.colorado.gov)

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Reality checks, warnings, and pro tips

• Timelines are real. If mail is slow, switch to PEAK + mobile app and sign up for text/email alerts.
• Keep records. Screenshot your uploads and the PEAK confirmation page; bring them to in‑person visits.
• Always ask for financial assistance at hospitals—even insured people can apply for HDC if the bill is unaffordable.
• Avoid scammers. Medicaid/CHP+ will not ask for bank/credit card info by phone/text. Scam alert. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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About coverage for dental, vision, and pregnancy extras

• Dental: Adults—no dollar cap; Kids—EPSDT requires medically necessary care. DentaQuest helps find dentists. Dental benefits. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Vision: Exams for adults annually; glasses after surgery; kids get eyeglasses as needed. Vision benefit. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Doulas: Covered as of July 1, 2024. Doula coverage. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Breast pumps: Covered during pregnancy (as early as 28 weeks) and postpartum with a prescription. Member FAQ. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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“What if none of this fits my situation?”

• Try a community health center anyway—care is provided on a sliding fee scale and they will help you apply for any program you qualify for. Find a health center. (Directory)
• Still overwhelmed? Dial 211 for a real human to triage your needs (medical, transportation, child care, housing) and warm‑hand you to the right agency. 211 Colorado. (211colorado.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

• This guide uses official sources from the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing (HCPF), Connect for Health Colorado, the Colorado Division of Insurance, CDPHE, and established nonprofits.
• Produced under our Editorial Standards—primary sources, verified links, rapid corrections, and clear disclaimers. Read our Editorial Policy (last updated August 2025).
• Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. Send corrections to info@asinglemother.org (we respond within 48–72 hours).

Disclaimer

• Program rules, income limits, and phone numbers can change. Always verify using the official links provided above or by calling the program directly.
• Health information here is for general guidance—not medical, legal, or case‑specific advice. For a medical concern, call your provider, the Medicaid Nurse Advice Line 1‑800‑283‑3221, or 911 in an emergency.
• We never collect payment or personal financial information. To keep you safe from scams, do not share bank or card info with anyone claiming to be from Medicaid/CHP+. Use only the official websites and numbers linked in this guide. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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Sources used in this guide (selected):

• Health First Colorado: eligibility, contacts, Find a Doctor, Nurse Line, PEAK assistance, PE factsheet, RAEs. (healthfirstcolorado.com, hcpf.colorado.gov)
• CHP+: eligibility, income caps (effective Apr 1, 2025), pregnancy/postpartum coverage, dental benefits. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Cover All Coloradans (effective Jan 1, 2025) and 12‑month postpartum coverage notes. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Hospital Discounted Care (HB21‑1198) income examples, payment plan caps, patient rights. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• NEMT: member FAQs, Denver metro Transdev numbers, service area list. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Marketplace: Open Enrollment 2026 dates; Connect for Health phone; reinsurance & Colorado Option savings. (hcpf.colorado.gov, connectforhealthco.com, doi.colorado.gov)
• OmniSalud & SilverEnhanced Savings, Colorado Connect phone. (doi.colorado.gov, connectforhealthco.com)
• Adult dental no cap; doula coverage; vision; member FAQs. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• County office directory; 211 Colorado. (cdhs.colorado.gov, 211colorado.org)
• CICP ended July 1, 2025 (transition). (hcpf.colorado.gov)

If you find an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it—fast.

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🏛️More Colorado Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Colorado

• 📋 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