Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Florida
Florida Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers: Medicaid, CHIP & More [2025]
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, scan‑friendly hub built for single moms in Florida. It covers Medicaid, Florida KidCare (CHIP), pregnancy coverage, the Medically Needy “share‑of‑cost” program, ACA Marketplace options, and where to get care today if you’re uninsured.
Sources are linked directly to official state/federal pages and established nonprofits. Program rules change; always confirm details before you apply.
(myflfamilies.com, ahca.myflorida.com, floridakidcare.org)
Quick Help Box (start here)
- Call Florida KidCare to enroll your child or ask about costs: 1‑888‑540‑5437 (Mon–Fri 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. ET). Apply year‑round. Most pay 0∗∗,∗∗0**, **15, or 20∗∗permonth;full‑payoptionsare∗∗20** per month; full‑pay options are **248.21 or $276 per child. Apply for Florida KidCare. (floridakidcare.org)
- Pregnant? Ask for Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women (PEPW) for same‑day prenatal coverage, then apply for full Medicaid. Postpartum Medicaid lasts 12 months after your pregnancy ends. Start with ACCESS Florida or your county health department. Florida Medicaid for Pregnant Women. (myflfamilies.com)
- Need to apply for Medicaid/KidCare or upload documents? Use ACCESS Florida online or by phone 850‑300‑4323 (Florida Relay 711 or 1‑800‑955‑8771). ACCESS Florida—Contact & Local Offices. (myflfamilies.com)
- Not eligible due to income, but medical bills are piling up? Ask about Florida’s Medically Needy (Share‑of‑Cost) program. You qualify for Medicaid for the rest of the month once your bills meet your “share of cost.” DCF Medically Needy info + brochure. (myflfamilies.com)
- Don’t have adult coverage? If your income is at/above 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, check ACA Marketplace plans during Open Enrollment (Nov 1–Jan 15) or after a qualifying life event. HealthCare.gov enrollment dates. (healthcare.gov)
- Need care today? Find low‑cost clinics and county health departments near you: Find a HRSA‑funded Health Center and the Florida County Health Department locator. Dial 211 for local help. (bphc.hrsa.gov, floridahealth.gov, fl211.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (income limits and key contacts)
Table notes:
- Amounts below are monthly, effective April 2025 for Florida Family‑Related Medicaid, and 2025 for federal guidelines where noted.
- Always verify because local variations and the 5% MAGI disregard can affect results.
| Program | Who Qualifies (simplified) | Monthly Income Examples (HH = household) | Costs | Apply/Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid for Pregnant Women | Florida resident; pregnant; meets income | HH1: 2,588∗∗;HH2:∗∗2,588**; HH2: **3,456; HH3: 4,355∗∗;HH4:∗∗4,355**; HH4: **5,252 | $0 | ACCESS Florida; Phone 850‑300‑4323; presumptive eligibility via county health dept. (myflfamilies.com) |
| Medicaid for Parents/Caretaker Relatives | Parent/caretaker of minor child; very low income | HH2: 476∗∗;HH3:∗∗476**; HH3: **598; HH4: $719 | $0 | ACCESS Florida; Phone 850‑300‑4323. (myflfamilies.com) |
| Medicaid for Children (by age) | Children by age group & income | Under 1 (HH3): 4,688∗∗;Age1–5(HH3):∗∗4,688**; Age 1–5 (HH3): **3,222; Age 6–18 (HH3): $3,066 | $0 | ACCESS Florida or Florida KidCare referral. (myflfamilies.com) |
| Florida KidCare (CHIP) | Children under 19 not eligible for full Medicaid | Most families pay 15∗∗or∗∗15** or **20 per month total; full‑pay 248.21∗∗or∗∗248.21** or **276 per child | 15/15/20; or full‑pay rates above | Florida KidCare; Phone 1‑888‑540‑5437. (floridakidcare.org) |
| Medically Needy (Share‑of‑Cost) | Income too high for full Medicaid; meet monthly “share” with bills | MNIL per month: HH1 180∗∗;HH2∗∗180**; HH2 **241; HH3 303∗∗;HH4∗∗303**; HH4 **364 (share = income – MNIL) | Varies; coverage after you meet share each month | DCF Medically Needy info & brochure. (myflfamilies.com) |
| Medicaid Managed Care choice | After Medicaid approval, pick a health plan; 120 days to change | — | $0 | Choice Counseling 1‑877‑711‑3662; FL Medicaid Managed Care. (myflfamilies.com, flmedicaidmanagedcare.com) |
| WIC (nutrition for pregnant/postpartum moms and kids <5) | Income ≤ 185% of poverty; nutritional risk | HH3 monthly max: 4,109∗∗;HH4:∗∗4,109**; HH4: **4,957 (effective 7/1/2025) | Free | Florida WIC 1‑800‑342‑3556; WIC income guidelines. (floridahealth.gov) |
| ACA Marketplace (adults) | Generally 100%–400%+ of federal poverty for premium tax credits | 2025 poverty (contiguous U.S.): HH1 15,650∗∗;HH2∗∗15,650**; HH2 **21,150; HH3 26,650∗∗;HH4∗∗26,650**; HH4 **32,150 | Premiums vary; many get large subsidies | HealthCare.gov—dates & deadlines; 2025 poverty guideline: ASPE/HHS. (healthcare.gov, aspe.hhs.gov) |
What most “top 10” results miss—and how this guide fills the gaps
- They often skip exact Florida income limits for each Medicaid child age band, pregnancy coverage, and parent/caretaker group. You’ll see the exact numbers (monthly) from DCF’s 2025 chart here. (myflfamilies.com)
- Many don’t explain the Medically Needy “share‑of‑cost” math with current MNIL figures. We include 2025 MNIL amounts and a simple calculation you can copy. (myflfamilies.com)
- KidCare costs are often vague. We list the real 2025 premiums including full‑pay rates from the official site. (floridakidcare.org)
- Florida still hasn’t adopted full Medicaid expansion (as of August 2025). You’ll see what that means for you and a plan if your income is below 100% FPL. (kff.org)
- This guide adds plan‑selection, appeal/fair‑hearing contacts, county health department links, and “what to do if this doesn’t work” at the end of each section. (ahca.myflorida.com, flmedicaidmanagedcare.com, floridahealth.gov)
Florida Medicaid for Single Mothers (family‑related Medicaid)
First action to take
Apply through ACCESS Florida online or by phone 850‑300‑4323, or get in‑person help at a DCF Family Resource Center/community partner. Coverage for eligible families is usually set for 12 months; you must renew annually. (myflfamilies.com)
- Online/app status & uploads: MyACCESS. (myflfamilies.com)
- Language access: free interpreter help available from DCF. (myflfamilies.com)
Who can qualify (key groups) and 2025 income examples
- Pregnant women: HH2 up to 3,456/mo∗∗;HH3∗∗3,456/mo**; HH3 **4,355/mo; HH4 $5,252/mo. Postpartum coverage lasts 12 months. (myflfamilies.com)
- Parents/caretaker relatives of a minor child: very low income—HH3 598/mo∗∗,HH4∗∗598/mo**, HH4 **719/mo. If you work even a little over this, apply anyway so your children are assessed for Medicaid/KidCare. (myflfamilies.com)
- Children by age (examples for HH3): Under 1 up to 4,688/mo∗∗;ages1–5upto∗∗4,688/mo**; ages 1–5 up to **3,222/mo; ages 6–18 up to $3,066/mo. (myflfamilies.com)
- Former foster youth: Medicaid up to age 26 with no income limit (if you aged out on Florida Medicaid). (myflfamilies.com)
Benefits and managed care
- After approval, pick a Medicaid plan (Managed Medical Assistance). If you don’t pick, AHCA will assign one; you have 120 days to change plans after enrollment. Choice Counseling: 1‑877‑711‑3662. (myflfamilies.com, flmedicaidmanagedcare.com)
- Covered services are broad (primary care, OB, behavioral health, lab/imaging, transportation, etc.). See AHCA coverage policy pages and the Medicaid Helpline 1‑877‑254‑1055 for questions. (ahca.myflorida.com)
Real‑world example
- You’re a single mom with one child (HH2). You earn 2,450/mo∗∗.You’repregnant.PregnancyMedicaidlimitforHH2is∗∗2,450/mo**. You’re pregnant. Pregnancy Medicaid limit for HH2 is **3,456/mo, so you qualify for full pregnancy coverage through 12 months postpartum. Your child likely stays on Medicaid/KidCare. (myflfamilies.com)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the managed care plan selection window. If you don’t pick a plan promptly, you may end up assigned to a doctor far away. Save 1‑877‑711‑3662 in your phone. (flmedicaidmanagedcare.com)
- Not reporting changes within 10 days (new job, address, household changes), which can cause closures or overpayments. Use your MyACCESS account. (myflfamilies.com)
- Skipping documents—ID, SSN (or proof you applied), proof of pregnancy, and recent income. Upload from your phone camera in MyACCESS. (myflfamilies.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask for help from the DCF Customer Call Center 850‑300‑4323. If your case is wrongly denied or delayed, you can request a fair hearing with DCF or, for plan service denials, with AHCA. (myflfamilies.com, myflfamilies.com, ahca.myflorida.com)
- File a Medicaid complaint with AHCA or request a Medicaid Fair Hearing: call 1‑877‑254‑1055 or use AHCA’s online complaint/appeal pages. (ahca.myflorida.com)
Florida KidCare (CHIP): MediKids, Healthy Kids, CMS Plan
First action to take
Apply for your child at Florida KidCare or call 1‑888‑540‑5437. Enrollment is open all year. Most families pay 0∗∗,∗∗0**, **15, or 20∗∗permonthtotalforallenrolledkids.Full‑payplansarealsoavailable(∗∗20** per month total for all enrolled kids. Full‑pay plans are also available (**248.21 or $276 per child, depending on age/program). (floridakidcare.org)
What’s covered and who’s who
- Florida KidCare includes Medicaid for children (free), MediKids (ages 1–4), Healthy Kids (ages 5–18), and the Children’s Medical Services (CMS) Managed Care Plan for kids with special health care needs. (floridakidcare.org)
- CHIP premium amounts (subsidized): 15∗∗or∗∗15** or **20 per month for the whole family, based on income. Full‑pay options: 248.21∗∗or∗∗248.21** or **276 per child/month. Use the cost calculator to estimate your payment. (ahca.myflorida.com, floridakidcare.org)
Special situations
- Children with special health care needs may qualify for the CMS Plan (age ≤21) if they meet medical screening and are Medicaid/KidCare‑eligible. Clinical screening line: 1‑855‑901‑5390. (floridahealth.gov)
- MediKids requires choosing a health plan and paying the monthly premium before coverage starts. MediKids Helpline: 1‑877‑506‑0578. (ahca.myflorida.com)
Real‑world example
- You have two kids (ages 3 and 7). Your household income is 3,400/mo∗∗.Your3‑year‑oldmayqualifyforMedicaid(age‑basedhigherlimit)whileyour7‑year‑oldenrollsinHealthyKidsata∗∗3,400/mo**. Your 3‑year‑old may qualify for Medicaid (age‑based higher limit) while your 7‑year‑old enrolls in Healthy Kids at a **15 or $20 family premium. Apply once—KidCare routes each child. (myflfamilies.com, floridakidcare.org)
Important update about KidCare (2025)
- In December 2024, CMS approved Florida’s request to expand subsidized KidCare eligibility up to 300% FPL, with tiered premiums (example for a family of four: 60–60–195 monthly tiers). Implementation has been tangled up with Florida’s legal challenge over 12‑month continuous eligibility/premium grace rules, so check KidCare’s site or helpline for the current status before you apply. (floridahealthjustice.org, health.wusf.usf.edu)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing a monthly premium. Even one missed payment can disrupt coverage; set auto‑pay if possible. If you’re struggling, call KidCare right away to ask about grace options. (floridakidcare.org)
- Not updating income changes during renewal—your cost tier can change and affect coverage. Renew annually in the Parent Portal. (floridakidcare.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your child is denied or terminated and you disagree, use the KidCare dispute process or call the Florida Medicaid Helpline 1‑877‑254‑1055 if the issue involves a Medicaid service. (ahca.myflorida.com)
Pregnancy & Postpartum Coverage (and Family Planning Medicaid)
First action to take
Ask your prenatal clinic or county health department to screen you for PEPW (Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women) for immediate prenatal coverage, then submit your full Medicaid application. Postpartum coverage lasts 12 months no matter your income changes during that year. (myflfamilies.com)
Income limits (monthly, April 2025 examples)
- HH1 2,588∗∗;HH2∗∗2,588**; HH2 **3,456; HH3 4,355∗∗;HH4∗∗4,355**; HH4 **5,252. (myflfamilies.com)
After postpartum — Family Planning Waiver (up to 24 months)
- If you lose full Medicaid, Florida’s Medicaid Family Planning Waiver can cover birth control, family planning visits, STD testing/treatment and related services for up to 24 months. As of 2025, eligibility is generally up to 191% of FPL for women 14–55 losing Medicaid and not otherwise eligible. Apply through your county health department or DCF. (ahca.myflorida.com)
Real‑world example
- You deliver in March. Your 12‑month postpartum Medicaid runs through next March. When that ends, ask your health department to screen you for the Family Planning Waiver to keep birth control and related care for up to two years. (myflfamilies.com, ahca.myflorida.com)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming Emergency (non‑citizen) Medicaid includes postpartum—Florida’s Emergency Medicaid covers the emergency labor/delivery date(s) only, not routine postpartum. Ask your provider about community clinics and the Family Planning Waiver. (myflfamilies.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you can’t get an appointment or coverage is pending, use a HRSA‑funded health center or your county health department for low‑cost prenatal/postpartum care while your case is reviewed. (bphc.hrsa.gov, floridahealth.gov)
Medically Needy (Share‑of‑Cost): when you’re “over income” for full Medicaid
First action to take
Tell DCF you want Medically Needy if you’re over the income limit but have medical bills. Track bills each month; when your bills equal your “share of cost,” Medicaid covers you for the rest of that month. Upload bills in MyACCESS. (myflfamilies.com)
2025 MNIL (Medically Needy Income Limit) examples
| Household Size | MNIL (monthly) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $180 |
| 2 | $241 |
| 3 | $303 |
| 4 | $364 |
Source: DCF Appendix A‑7 (Updated 02/06/2025). (myflfamilies.com)
How the math works (simple example)
- You’re a family of 1 with monthly countable income of 690∗∗.MNILis∗∗690**. MNIL is **180, so your share of cost is 510∗∗.Onceyouincur∗∗510**. Once you incur **510 in allowable medical expenses in that month (bills can be unpaid), call DCF to “open” coverage for the rest of the month. Next month, it resets. (myflfamilies.com)
Reality check
- Not every provider will schedule non‑urgent visits before you meet your share of cost. Keep copies of bills, prescriptions, and receipts. Ask your clinic to date bills accurately so they count toward the current month. (myflfamilies.com)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sending bills without dates of service or with insurance payments already deducted—only your portion counts. Upload clear images via MyACCESS and keep a running list. (myflfamilies.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you can’t meet your share most months, compare a low‑premium Marketplace plan (if income ≥100% FPL) so you have consistent coverage. Use HealthCare.gov to check savings. (healthcare.gov)
ACA Marketplace (HealthCare.gov) for adults
Florida has not adopted full Medicaid expansion (as of August 2025). That means many adults qualify for Marketplace savings only if income is at or above 100% of the 2025 poverty guideline (for a single adult that’s $15,650/year). Households with children should still apply because kids may get Medicaid/KidCare even if the adult is in the “coverage gap.” (kff.org, aspe.hhs.gov)
First action to take
Mark your calendar: Open Enrollment is November 1–January 15. Enroll by December 15 for January 1 coverage; enroll by January 15 for February 1 coverage. Special Enrollment Periods are available year‑round after major life events (move, loss of coverage, birth). Start at HealthCare.gov. (healthcare.gov)
What plans cost
Premium tax credits can reduce premiums to very low amounts if your income is in the subsidy range. Cost‑sharing reductions (extra help with deductibles/co‑pays) apply if your income is up to 250% FPL and you pick a Silver plan. Use HealthCare.gov’s preview tool for exact 2025 prices in your ZIP code. (healthcare.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your income is below 100% FPL and you don’t qualify for Medicaid (coverage gap), pursue: Medically Needy (share‑of‑cost), HRSA health centers, county health departments, free/charitable clinics, hospital financial assistance policies, and prescription discount programs. See the resources section below. (myflfamilies.com, bphc.hrsa.gov, floridahealth.gov, fafcc.org, irs.gov)
Breast & Cervical Cancer screening and treatment pathway
- Free or low‑cost screenings: The Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program serves eligible women (generally ages 40–64) with little or no insurance. Contact your county health department to see if you qualify. (floridahealth.gov)
- If diagnosed through the program, ask the health department about Medicaid coverage for treatment under Florida’s breast and cervical cancer Medicaid pathway. Start with the screening program and request help navigating next steps. (floridahealth.gov)
Your rights in a medical emergency (regardless of insurance)
- Under EMTALA, hospital emergency departments must screen and stabilize you, including during labor, regardless of your ability to pay or immigration status. You can file a complaint if you’re turned away. Details: CMS “You have rights in an emergency room under EMTALA.” (cms.gov)
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
Medicaid (pregnant women, parents/caretakers, kids)
- Create or sign in to MyACCESS and start the application. Upload proof of identity, Florida residency, SSN (or proof you applied), pregnancy verification (if pregnant), and recent income. Call 850‑300‑4323 if you need a paper or phone application. Renew annually. (myflfamilies.com)
- After approval, choose your Medicaid plan (or change within 120 days). Choice Counseling: 1‑877‑711‑3662. (flmedicaidmanagedcare.com)
Florida KidCare (MediKids, Healthy Kids, CMS Plan)
- Apply online, phone 1‑888‑540‑5437, or email/fax/mail documents as requested. Keep premium payments current to avoid disruptions. Use the cost calculator to estimate your monthly amount. (floridakidcare.org)
WIC
- Call 1‑800‑342‑3556 for your local office. Bring ID, proof of income, and proof of pregnancy/child age. 2025 income examples: HH3 4,109/mo∗∗,HH4∗∗4,109/mo**, HH4 **4,957/mo. (floridahealth.gov)
Marketplace
- Enroll at HealthCare.gov during Nov 1–Jan 15, or after a qualifying event. Gather Social Security numbers, estimated 2025 income, and any current coverage info. (healthcare.gov)
Application Checklist (print/save)
- Government‑issued photo ID (you and kids, if available).
- Social Security numbers or proof you applied for one.
- Proof of Florida residency (lease, utility bill, mail with your name).
- Proof of pregnancy (clinic note or lab).
- Recent income for everyone in the household (last 4 weeks’ pay stubs, self‑employment logs, Unemployment or child support received).
- Immigration documents (if applicable).
- Current health insurance info (if any), including policy numbers.
- Copies/photos of medical bills (for Medically Needy).
- A working email/phone for appointment notices and renewals.
Tip: Upload via MyACCESS from your phone camera as PDFs or clear photos. (myflfamilies.com)
Timelines you can expect (realistic, not rosy)
| Step | Typical timeline (may vary) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PEPW (pregnancy presumptive) | Same day at qualified provider | Only covers prenatal; complete full Medicaid application within the temporary period. (myflfamilies.com) |
| Family‑Related Medicaid decision | A few weeks from complete application | Check MyACCESS for requests; respond within deadlines to avoid denial for missing info. (myflfamilies.com) |
| Managed care plan selection | Immediately after approval | If you don’t choose, AHCA assigns; you have 120 days to change. (myflfamilies.com) |
| KidCare | Often within 2–4 weeks once documents/premium are in | Coverage starts after first premium for CHIP components. (ahca.myflorida.com) |
| Marketplace | Coverage effective dates set by federal deadlines | Enroll by Dec 15 for Jan 1; Jan 15 for Feb 1. (healthcare.gov) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid (across programs)
- Estimating income too low/high. Use gross (before taxes) unless the application asks otherwise; update if it changes. For KidCare, income shifts can change your tier. (floridakidcare.org)
- Ignoring notices. Log into MyACCESS frequently and read mail/email—deadlines matter. (myflfamilies.com)
- Missing appeals windows. Keep denial letters; DCF hearings often must be requested within specific timeframes. For plan service denials, request a plan appeal first, then a Medicaid Fair Hearing at 1‑877‑254‑1055. (ahca.myflorida.com)
Where to get care now (low/no cost)
- HRSA‑funded health centers: care regardless of ability to pay. Use the locator. (bphc.hrsa.gov)
- County Health Departments (vaccines, prenatal, WIC, STD testing, etc.). Use the statewide locator. (floridahealth.gov)
- Free & Charitable Clinics: Find member clinics via the Florida Association of Free and Charitable Clinics directory. (fafcc.org)
- FloridaHealthFinder: Find licensed hospitals, birthing centers, clinics, and compare quality. (quality.healthfinder.fl.gov)
- Hospital Financial Assistance Policies (for nonprofit hospitals): Ask for the hospital’s FAP at registration or billing. IRS 501(r) requires hospitals to post and offer charity care policies; apply if bills are unaffordable. (irs.gov)
Diverse Communities: tailored help in Florida
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Many HRSA health centers offer inclusive care and behavioral health. Use the locator and ask about sliding fees. (bphc.hrsa.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child
- CMS Managed Care Plan for children with special health needs (≤21). Clinical screening: 1‑855‑901‑5390. (floridahealth.gov)
- Veteran single mothers
- Florida 211’s veterans line 1‑844‑MYFLVET (1‑844‑693‑5838) connects you to VA‑funded services and local supports. (turnto211.com)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms
- Emergency Medicaid can cover emergency conditions, including labor/delivery, even if you don’t meet citizenship rules. Ask your hospital/clinic to help submit proof of the emergency. Note: Emergency Medicaid does not include routine postpartum. (myflfamilies.com)
- Tribal‑specific resources (Seminole/Miccosukee)
- Tribal clinics and behavioral health centers serve tribal members; examples include the Seminole Tribe’s Betty Mae Jumper Clinic in Hollywood (954‑962‑2009) and sites in Immokalee, Brighton, and Tampa. Ask about Purchased/Referred Care. (cms.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access
- Use telehealth benefits through your Medicaid plan when transportation is a barrier; AHCA provides telehealth guidance. (ahca.myflorida.com)
- Single fathers
- The same Medicaid/KidCare rules generally apply to single dads who are caretakers of minor children. Use MyACCESS and KidCare like above. (myflfamilies.com)
- Language access
- DCF offers free interpreter help; call 850‑300‑4323 and ask. Many health centers and KidCare provide materials in Spanish and Haitian Creole. (myflfamilies.com, floridakidcare.org)
Resources by Region (find local help fast)
- Managing Entities for behavioral health (publicly funded mental health/substance use treatment): Find your regional Managing Entity via DCF’s listing. They connect you to local providers and crisis services. (myflfamilies.com)
- County Health Departments: One in every county; use the statewide locator to find addresses and phone numbers. (floridahealth.gov)
- HRSA Health Centers: Primary care, dental, behavioral health on sliding scale—search by ZIP. (bphc.hrsa.gov)
- Florida 211: Dial 211 or use the site to find crisis lines, shelters, food, transportation, and more. (fl211.org)
Detailed Numbers: 2025 Florida Medicaid income examples (monthly)
| Group | HH1 | HH2 | HH3 | HH4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pregnant Women | $2,588 | $3,456 | $4,355 | $5,252 |
| Children under age 1 | $2,754 | $3,720 | $4,688 | $5,654 |
| Children ages 1–5 | $1,893 | $2,558 | $3,222 | $3,886 |
| Children ages 6–18 | $1,801 | $2,434 | $3,066 | $3,698 |
| Parents/Caretakers | $355 | $476 | $598 | $719 |
Source: DCF “Determining your Income Limit,” Effective April 2025. (myflfamilies.com)
Florida KidCare costs at a glance (2025)
| Option | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Medicaid for children | $0 |
| CHIP subsidized (family premium) | 15∗∗or∗∗15** or **20 per month |
| Full‑pay (per child) | 248.21∗∗or∗∗248.21** or **276 per month |
Source: Florida KidCare Cost page (2025). (floridakidcare.org)
If your plan denies a service: how to appeal
- Start with your plan’s appeal process (see your plan ID card). If still denied, request a Medicaid Fair Hearing with AHCA: call 1‑877‑254‑1055 or submit by email/fax/mail using AHCA’s instructions. Keep your denial letter and submit it with your request. (ahca.myflorida.com)
Quick links (official)
- Apply or manage benefits: MyACCESS Florida (DCF), Help line 850‑300‑4323. (myflfamilies.com)
- Florida KidCare: Apply/Calculate Cost, Phone 1‑888‑540‑5437. (floridakidcare.org)
- Medicaid Managed Care choice: 1‑877‑711‑3662; Member Portal & contact. (flmedicaidmanagedcare.com)
- Medicaid Helpline (coverage questions/complaints): 1‑877‑254‑1055. (ahca.myflorida.com)
- WIC (nutrition): 1‑800‑342‑3556; Income guidelines. (floridahealth.gov)
- HealthCare.gov (ACA): Dates & deadlines. (healthcare.gov)
- County Health Department locator: Find your CHD. (floridahealth.gov)
- HRSA Health Center locator: Find a Health Center. (bphc.hrsa.gov)
FAQs (Florida‑specific)
- Do I qualify for pregnancy Medicaid if I’m working full‑time?
Yes, if your countable household income is under the monthly limit (e.g., HH2 3,456∗∗;HH3∗∗3,456**; HH3 **4,355). Apply right away and ask for PEPW if you need prenatal care today. (myflfamilies.com) - I’m a single mom with one child. My income is 2,900/mo∗∗.Doeitherofusqualify?YourchildlikelyqualifiesforMedicaidorKidCare;yourparent/caretakerlimitismuchlower(∗∗2,900/mo**. Do either of us qualify? Your child likely qualifies for Medicaid or KidCare; your parent/caretaker limit is much lower (**476–$719 depending on HH size), so check Marketplace plans or Medically Needy for yourself. Apply together so the system routes each person appropriately. (myflfamilies.com)
- My KidCare got closed for non‑payment. What can I do?
Call 1‑888‑540‑5437 immediately to ask about reinstatement and update payment settings. Renew on time each year in the Parent Portal. (floridakidcare.org) - What if I’m over Medicaid income but have big medical bills?
Ask for Medically Needy. Your monthly “share” is your income minus the MNIL (e.g., HH1 180∗∗;HH2∗∗180**; HH2 **241). Once your bills meet the share, you’re covered for the remainder of that month. (myflfamilies.com) - Can my newborn get Medicaid automatically?
If you had Medicaid on the day of delivery, your newborn is presumed eligible through the end of the month in the following year. Report the birth right away. (myflfamilies.com) - How do I switch my Medicaid plan or doctors?
Call Choice Counseling 1‑877‑711‑3662. You typically have 120 days after enrollment to change plans. (myflfamilies.com) - I’m under 100% FPL and don’t qualify for full Medicaid. What’s my adult coverage option?
Florida hasn’t expanded Medicaid, so check Medically Needy, community health centers, and county health departments; also see hospital Financial Assistance Policies for large bills. (kff.org, bphc.hrsa.gov, floridahealth.gov, irs.gov) - Where can I get help fast for postpartum depression or anxiety?
Call the HRSA Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑9‑HELP4MOMS (1‑833‑943‑5746), available 24/7, and ask your Medicaid plan for behavioral health services. Florida 211 also connects to local counselors. (hrsa.gov, fl211.org) - Are there special programs for my child with complex medical needs?
Yes—Children’s Medical Services Managed Care Plan. Request a screening at 1‑855‑901‑5390. (floridahealth.gov) - What are my rights if an ER tries to turn me away?
Under EMTALA, hospital ERs must screen and stabilize you regardless of ability to pay. Learn how to file a complaint on the CMS site. (cms.gov)
Quick “What to do if this doesn’t work” map
- Trouble with eligibility or paperwork: call DCF 850‑300‑4323 and ask for a phone application or help with uploads; visit a Family Resource Center; ask a community partner for assistance. (myflfamilies.com)
- Service denied by your Medicaid plan: appeal with your plan; if denied again, request an AHCA Fair Hearing 1‑877‑254‑1055. (ahca.myflorida.com)
- No primary care available: switch plans within your window or use HRSA health centers/county health departments to avoid gaps. (myflfamilies.com, bphc.hrsa.gov, floridahealth.gov)
- Can’t afford hospital bills: request the hospital’s Financial Assistance Policy application; nonprofit hospitals must provide it. (irs.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), Florida Department of Health (DOH), USDA/FNS, HHS/HRSA, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards and is updated on a schedule with fast corrections when rules change. We are independent researchers, not a government agency, and we cannot guarantee individual outcomes.
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
Please email corrections to info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
- Program rules, dollar amounts, premiums, and deadlines change. Always verify with the linked agency or hotline before you apply.
- Health information here is general, not medical or legal advice. For medical emergencies, call 911. For mental health crises, call 988.
- To keep your data secure, apply only through official portals linked above (MyACCESS, Florida KidCare, HealthCare.gov) and avoid sharing personal information over email or text unless the agency instructs you to do so through secure channels.
- We do not receive compensation from programs we reference. We correct verified errors promptly. (myflfamilies.com)
Sources (selected)
- Florida DCF: Family‑Related Medicaid income limits (Effective April 2025), PEPW, postpartum, Medically Needy, fair hearings, and contact info. (myflfamilies.com, myflfamilies.com)
- Florida KidCare: Costs, enrollment, and program descriptions; customer service hours/phone. (floridakidcare.org)
- AHCA: Medicaid managed care choice counseling, member helpline, fair hearings, coverage policies, telehealth. (flmedicaidmanagedcare.com, ahca.myflorida.com)
- Florida DOH: WIC income guidelines (Revised 6/19/2025), Healthy Start, Breast & Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. (floridahealth.gov)
- HealthCare.gov: 2025 Open Enrollment dates and SEP basics. (healthcare.gov)
- ASPE/HHS: 2025 Poverty Guidelines. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- HRSA: Find a Health Center tool and services. (bphc.hrsa.gov)
- KFF: Medicaid expansion status (Florida not expanded as of Aug 2025). (kff.org)
- Florida 211: statewide help and specialized lines for veterans/first responders. (fl211.org, turnto211.com)
- Florida CMS Plan (children with special needs): eligibility/screening. (floridahealth.gov)
- CMS EMTALA patient rights (emergency care). (cms.gov)
If you spot anything out of date, send us a quick note at info@asinglemother.org. We’re here to keep this page useful and accurate for Florida’s single moms.
🏛️More Florida Resources for Single Mothers
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