Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Idaho
Idaho Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers: Medicaid, CHIP & More [2025]
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, no‑fluff guide built for single moms in Idaho. It gives you the exact steps, numbers, deadlines, and phone numbers to get health coverage and care for yourself and your kids.
Quick Help Box
- Apply for Medicaid/CHIP online now with Idalink. If you’re not sure you qualify, apply anyway. Decisions can take up to 45 days. Call Self‑Reliance at 877‑456‑1233 for help. Apply for Medicaid (official portal + phone, email, fax). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Pregnant? You can qualify for pregnancy Medicaid and get coverage through 12 months postpartum in Idaho (effective January 1, 2025). Pregnancy Coverage overview and CMS approval ID‑25‑0001. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, medicaid.gov)
- Kids can qualify for Medicaid/CHIP up to 190% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). See the income table below for the exact 2025 monthly limits. Idaho Medicaid Program Income Limits. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Dental (Medicaid): MCNA Dental runs “Idaho Smiles.” Member hotline 855‑233‑6262. Idaho Smiles—MCNA Dental info. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Mental health (Medicaid): Optum Idaho manages outpatient behavioral health. 24/7 member line 855‑202‑0973. Optum Idaho contact page. (dev.optumidaho.com)
- Need a ride to the doctor? Medicaid’s non‑emergency medical transportation (NEMT) is through MTM. Schedule at least 2 business days ahead at 877‑503‑1261. MTM Idaho members page and DHW NEMT overview. (mtm-inc.net, healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Marketplace plans (not on Medicaid/CHIP): Your Health Idaho open enrollment runs October 15–December 15 each year. For 2025 coverage, Idaho’s window was Oct 15–Dec 16, 2024. Call 855‑944‑3246. How to enroll at Your Health Idaho and DOE press info. (yourhealthidaho.org, doi.idaho.gov)
- WIC for pregnant/postpartum moms and kids under 5: 2025–2026 gross monthly income example—family of 2 up to 3,261∗∗;familyof4upto∗∗3,261**; family of 4 up to **4,957. Apply for WIC + current income table. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Crisis? Call or text 988 (Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline). 24/7. Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline. (idahocrisis.org)
First, figure out your fastest path to coverage
Use these quick rules to choose your next step today.
- If you’re pregnant now: apply for Pregnancy Medicaid immediately, then keep coverage through 12 months postpartum. If you’re working, pregnant Medicaid still counts the unborn in your household size. Apply online with Idalink; you can upload docs from your phone. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- If you’re an adult 19–64 with low income: Idaho covers adults up to 138% FPL under Medicaid expansion (see monthly limits below). Apply on Idalink. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- If you have children under 19: kids can get Medicaid or CHIP up to 190% FPL. Don’t skip this—kids qualify even when adults don’t. Apply on Idalink; you can still qualify if the kids have other insurance (for Medicaid; CHIP requires no private coverage). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- If your income is too high for Medicaid/CHIP: shop subsidized private plans at Your Health Idaho. You can enroll during Open Enrollment or within 60 days after losing other coverage (Special Enrollment). (yourhealthidaho.org)
2025 Income Limits at a Glance (Monthly)
These are Idaho’s official 2025 monthly limits. The unborn child counts in household size for pregnancy coverage.
| Household Size | Adult Medicaid (138% FPL) | Pregnancy Medicaid (to 138% FPL) | Children’s CHIP (to 190% FPL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | $2,433 | $2,433 | $3,349 |
| 3 | $3,065 | $3,065 | $4,220 |
| 4 | $3,598 | $3,598 | $5,091 |
| 5 | $4,330 | $4,330 | $5,962 |
| 6 | $4,963 | $4,963 | $6,833 |
Source: Idaho Medicaid Program Income Limits (effective January 2025). Federal poverty numbers are set by HHS; 2025 FPL for 48 states starts at $15,650 for one person. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
Medicaid for Adults in Idaho (including Medicaid Expansion)
The most important action first
Apply now on Idalink—even if you’re unsure. Coverage can start the month you apply if eligible (retroactive coverage may apply in some situations). Use Self‑Reliance at 877‑456‑1233 if you’re stuck. Decisions can take up to 45 days. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What it covers:
- Primary care, hospital, prescriptions, mental health, transportation to covered care (NEMT), and more. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
2025 income example:
- Household of 3: eligible if gross monthly income is at or below $3,065. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
How to apply (fastest to slowest):
- Online: Apply with Idalink and upload documents.
- Phone: call 877‑456‑1233 to complete your interview or find your nearest field office.
- Mail/Email/Fax: send a completed application to MyBenefits@dhw.idaho.gov, fax 866‑434‑8278, or mail to Self‑Reliance, PO Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720‑0026. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Required documents (don’t delay your case):
- Photo ID.
- Last 30 days of pay stubs or other income proof.
- Rent/mortgage and utility info.
- Immigration status (if applicable). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Timelines and what to expect:
- Processing can take up to 45 days. Watch your mail and Idalink account for requests. Respond quickly to avoid denial. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- You must report changes (address, income, pregnancy, household) within 10 days. Recertification happens annually—watch for your packet. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Coverage coordination notes (2025):
- Idaho’s Healthy Connections primary‑care program is being phased out by December 31, 2025. You can see the primary care provider of your choice; referrals are still encouraged. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Ignoring mail from DHW or Idalink requests.
- Not counting an unborn baby in your household size for pregnancy‑related eligibility.
- Missing the 10‑day window to report address/income changes. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- Check if you qualify for subsidized plans via Your Health Idaho or free/low‑cost care at community health centers listed below. (yourhealthidaho.org)
Medicaid for Pregnant Idahoans + 12‑Month Postpartum Coverage
The most important action first
Apply as soon as you know you’re pregnant—don’t wait. Pregnancy Medicaid now covers from pregnancy through 12 months after the pregnancy ends (effective January 1, 2025). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, medicaid.gov)
2025 income guide (monthly):
- Household of 3: up to $3,065.
- Household of 4: up to $3,598.
The unborn baby counts in your household size. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What it typically covers:
- Prenatal care, delivery, postpartum visits through 12 months, mental health care, prescriptions, and dental (full enhanced dental benefits for adult Medicaid members through MCNA). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
How to apply:
- Online: Idalink.
- Phone: 877‑456‑1233.
- Mail/Email/Fax options available. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Dental during pregnancy:
- All Medicaid‑eligible adults (including the pregnant‑women plan) have access to enhanced dental benefits under Idaho Smiles (MCNA). Member line 855‑233‑6262. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Behavioral health during and after pregnancy:
- Call Optum Idaho 855‑202‑0973 for therapy/counseling options covered under Medicaid. In crisis, call/text 988. (dev.optumidaho.com, idahocrisis.org)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Waiting until late in pregnancy to apply.
- Missing postpartum visits now covered for 12 months.
- Not requesting transportation for prenatal visits—call MTM at 877‑503‑1261 at least 2 business days before appointments. (mtm-inc.net)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- If income is over the limit, check Your Health Idaho for discounted plans; many moms qualify for lower‑cost silver plans with extra cost‑sharing help, depending on income. (yourhealthidaho.org)
Children’s Medicaid and CHIP (up to age 19)
The most important action first
Apply for each child. Kids often qualify even if a parent doesn’t. Idaho covers children up to 190% FPL either through Medicaid (lower incomes) or CHIP (higher incomes). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Key 2025 income numbers (monthly):
- Family of 3: children eligible up to $4,220 (CHIP upper limit).
- Family of 4: up to $5,091 (CHIP upper limit). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Costs:
- Medicaid for kids generally has no premiums; CHIP may have a small monthly premium per child based on income (the state will list the exact amount on your billing notice). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What’s covered:
- Well‑child checkups, immunizations, dental/vision, mental health, prescriptions, and EPSDT—extra medically necessary services to correct or improve conditions (very important if your child has special needs). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
How to apply or renew:
- Online: Idalink.
- Phone: 877‑456‑1233.
- Mail/Email/Fax accepted. Processing may take up to 45 days. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Special programs:
- Katie Beckett (for children with significant disabilities/complex medical needs) has separate income/resource rules; in 2025, the income limit listed is $2,921 (individual). Contact DHW for help applying. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping applications because a child has private insurance (children can still qualify for Medicaid; CHIP requires no private coverage). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Not using EPSDT when a needed service is denied under basic limits; ask your child’s doctor to submit an EPSDT request. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- If kids don’t qualify, check school‑based clinics and local community health centers below for sliding‑fee care. Many offer dental and behavioral health at low cost.
WIC: Nutrition help for pregnant/postpartum moms and children under 5
WIC offers monthly food benefits, breastfeeding help, pumps, and nutrition counseling. 2025–2026 income limits (gross):
| Household | Per Month |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,413 |
| 2 | $3,261 |
| 3 | $4,109 |
| 4 | $4,957 |
Apply through your local public health district (50+ clinics statewide). Apply for WIC—steps and current income table. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- Ask a WIC office to refer you to a community health center and local food supports; dial 2‑1‑1 for more resources Mon–Fri 8–6 MT, or 800‑926‑2588. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Dental Care on Medicaid: Idaho Smiles (MCNA)
- MCNA Dental manages all Medicaid dental benefits statewide under Idaho Smiles. Adult Medicaid members (including pregnant adults and those on the Basic plan) have access to the enhanced dental benefit. Member hotline 855‑233‑6262 (TTY 711). Idaho DHW dental page. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Tips:
- Choose a dentist in network before you have an urgent issue.
- Missed appointments can delay care—confirm your rides with MTM if you use NEMT.
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- If you can’t reach MCNA, try the member email on MCNA’s site or call again during business hours. For emergencies, use the ER or urgent dental clinic as directed. (mcnaid.net)
Mental Health & Substance Use Services
- For Medicaid members: outpatient behavioral health is managed by Optum Idaho. 24/7 member line 855‑202‑0973. They can help you find a therapist, psychiatrist, or substance‑use services. Optum Idaho—contact. (dev.optumidaho.com)
- In a crisis: call/text 988 (Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline—local counselors). Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline. (idahocrisis.org)
- Youth crisis services and adult crisis centers exist statewide; find regional numbers on DHW’s crisis pages. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- Ask your primary care clinic for an immediate warm handoff to behavioral health.
- Use a community crisis center (walk‑in) listed on DHW’s site if you need same‑day help. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
- If you have Medicaid and no ride to a covered appointment, MTM can help. Call 877‑503‑1261 to schedule rides (24/7 scheduling), ideally 2 business days before the appointment. Mileage reimbursement may be available. MTM Idaho—members page and DHW’s NEMT page. (mtm-inc.net, healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- If you’re late for a scheduled ride, call MTM again. For urgent issues, use urgent care or ER if needed and notify MTM after. (mtm-inc.net)
Women’s Health Check: Free Breast & Cervical Cancer Screening
Low‑income, uninsured women may qualify for free screening and diagnostic services. 2025 income cap is 200% FPL (example: family of 4 up to $5,358 monthly). If cancer is found, you may qualify for treatment through Breast & Cervical Cancer Medicaid. Local coordinators and phone numbers are listed by region on the program page. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- Ask your public health district or a community health center for sliding‑fee screening. See local clinics below.
Immunizations for Children (No‑ or Low‑Cost)
Idaho’s vaccine program provides routine childhood vaccines at no cost for the vaccine itself; providers may charge a small admin fee. Ask if they can waive it if you can’t pay. Get shots at your pediatrician or public health clinic. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- If your child is uninsured/underinsured, check VFC eligibility; Idaho also supplies state‑funded vaccines for other children. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- Call your public health district immunization clinic (many offer a sliding fee) or ask school‑based clinics. (cdh.idaho.gov)
Home Visiting Support for New & Expecting Moms
Free, voluntary home‑visiting programs help with healthy pregnancy, postpartum recovery, feeding, and child development.
- Programs include Nurse‑Family Partnership (first‑time moms) and Parents as Teachers (pregnancy through age 5). Find local contacts by health district and enroll. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- Ask your WIC office or pediatric clinic to refer you to community parenting supports or local family resource centers.
Your Health Idaho (Marketplace) — When you’re over Medicaid/CHIP limits
- Open Enrollment: October 15–December 15 each year. For 2025 coverage, the enrollment deadline was December 16, 2024. If you lose Medicaid or move, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (generally 60 days). (yourhealthidaho.org)
- Idaho continues to offer a strong plan choice and tax credits to lower premiums and out‑of‑pocket costs for eligible families. In 2025, Idaho had eight carriers offering individual coverage statewide. Call 855‑944‑3246 or use free local enrollment help. (doi.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- If you can’t afford premiums even after the tax credit, use community health centers (sliding fee) and free clinics listed below until your next enrollment window. (yourhealthidaho.org)
Key Contacts & Member Services (Bookmark this)
| Service | What it does | How to reach |
|---|---|---|
| Self‑Reliance (Medicaid/CHIP) | Apply, interview, report changes | 877‑456‑1233; Email: MyBenefits@dhw.idaho.gov; Apply online |
| Idalink help & TTY | Account/tech help; TTY 800‑377‑2529 | 877‑456‑1233; Idalink help |
| MCNA Dental (Idaho Smiles) | Find a dentist, benefits | 855‑233‑6262; DHW dental |
| Optum Idaho (behavioral health) | Therapy, psychiatry, SUD | 855‑202‑0973; Optum Idaho |
| NEMT—MTM | Rides to covered care | 877‑503‑1261; MTM Idaho |
| Pharmacy—Prime Therapeutics | Member pharmacy help | 888‑773‑9466; Idaho Medicaid Pharmacy Program |
| Your Health Idaho | Marketplace & tax credits | 855‑944‑3246; How to Enroll |
| Idaho CareLine 2‑1‑1 | Statewide resource navigation | Dial 211 or 800‑926‑2588; Community supports |
| Crisis line | 24/7 mental health crisis | 988; Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline |
Sources: DHW pages for Medicaid/CHIP, MCNA, MTM, Prime Therapeutics; Optum Idaho; Your Health Idaho; CareLine. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, mtm-inc.net, dev.optumidaho.com, yourhealthidaho.org, idahocrisis.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (What to apply for, when)
| If this is you… | Look at this program | Why | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pregnant now | Pregnancy Medicaid | Covers pregnancy + 12 months postpartum | Pregnancy Coverage |
| Adult 19–64 with low income | Adult Medicaid (expansion) | Full medical/behavioral benefits | Apply for Medicaid |
| Child under 19 | Children’s Medicaid/CHIP | Coverage up to 190% FPL | Medicaid Income Limits |
| Need a dentist (on Medicaid) | Idaho Smiles (MCNA) | Enhanced dental benefits | MCNA 855‑233‑6262 |
| Need mental health care | Optum Idaho + 988 | Covered outpatient care; crisis help | Optum 855‑202‑0973; 988 |
| No ride | MTM | Medicaid rides to covered care | MTM 877‑503‑1261 |
| Over income for Medicaid/CHIP | Your Health Idaho | Subsidized private plans | 855‑944‑3246 |
| Nutrition during/after pregnancy | WIC | Monthly food + support | Apply for WIC |
References as cited in sections above. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, medicaid.gov, dev.optumidaho.com, mtm-inc.net, yourhealthidaho.org)
Application Checklist (bring or upload these)
- ID for you and your child(ren) (driver’s license or other photo ID).
- Proof of income (last 30 days of pay stubs, self‑employment ledger, child support received).
- Housing costs (rent, mortgage, utilities if asked).
- Immigration status (if applicable).
- Medical bills from last 3 months (ask about retroactive coverage where applicable). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Real‑World Examples (how this plays out)
- Mom with two kids, earning 3,000/month∗∗:childrenlikelyqualifyforMedicaid/CHIP(familyof3childlimit∗∗3,000/month**: children likely qualify for Medicaid/CHIP (family of 3 child limit **4,220) even if mom doesn’t. Apply for the kids now, then mom can check Adult Medicaid (limit $3,065) or Your Health Idaho. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Pregnant worker earning 3,400/month∗∗withonechild(householdof3countingtheunborn):justoverthepregnancyMedicaidlimit(∗∗3,400/month** with one child (household of 3 counting the unborn): just over the pregnancy Medicaid limit (**3,065). Apply anyway; DHW excludes some income and the unborn counts. If denied, go straight to Your Health Idaho for a discounted plan while WIC supports food needs. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, yourhealthidaho.org)
- New Medicaid member with no car: schedule rides for prenatal care at least 2 business days prior through MTM 877‑503‑1261; download their app if you prefer self‑scheduling. (mtm-inc.net)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not opening DHW mail or logging into Idalink—missing a simple request can delay or deny your case. Decisions can take up to 45 days, and you must respond quickly. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Forgetting to report address or income changes within 10 days (can cause closure or overpayments). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Skipping EPSDT for kids—ask providers to submit an EPSDT request when your child needs extra services. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Not counting the unborn child in your household size for pregnancy coverage. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Waiting on dental care—call MCNA 855‑233‑6262 to pick a dentist now. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Forgetting transportation—call MTM 877‑503‑1261 at least 2 business days ahead. (mtm-inc.net)
Pharmacy Coverage (Medicaid)
Idaho’s Medicaid pharmacy benefits are administered by Prime Therapeutics. Call the member line 888‑773‑9466 for coverage, prior authorization status, or pharmacy help. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):
- Ask your clinic about 340B prescription discounts (many community health centers offer reduced‑cost meds to their patients).
Local, Low‑Cost Clinics (FQHCs and Free Clinics)
Use these when you’re in between coverage or need sliding‑fee care. Call before visiting to confirm services and hours.
Community Health Centers (sliding fee based on income):
- Heritage Health (North Idaho): 208‑620‑5250; multiple locations including Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Rathdrum, Kellogg. Primary care, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy. Locations. (myheritagehealth.org)
- Terry Reilly (Treasure Valley): central number varies by site; flagship Nampa clinic 208‑466‑7869. Primary care, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy. Locations. (trhs.org)
- Family Health Services (South Central): find a clinic near Twin Falls, Jerome, Burley, etc. FHS site (sliding fee; medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy). (fhsid.org)
- Kaniksu Community Health (Bonner/Boundary counties): Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry, Priest River. Main line 208‑263‑7101. Medical, pediatric, dental, behavioral health. Locations. (kchnorthidaho.org)
Free & Charitable Clinics (no/low cost; call for eligibility):
- Idaho Association of Free & Charitable Clinics—find a free clinic statewide (e.g., Genesis Community Health, Pocatello Free Clinic, Wellness Tree). Clinic finder. (idahoafcc.org)
Diverse Communities: targeted tips and resources
LGBTQ+ single mothers:
- Medicaid and marketplace plans must cover preventive and mental health care without discrimination. If you face barriers, request DHW’s language/civil rights help at 211 or 800‑926‑2588. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or caregiving for a disabled child:
- Explore Enhanced Medicaid benefits or Katie Beckett (for a child with significant needs). Start with Self‑Reliance 877‑456‑1233. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Veteran single mothers:
- You can use VA care plus Medicaid/CHIP for your kids. For navigation across systems, dial 211 to locate veteran navigators in your region. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Immigrant and refugee single moms:
- DHW provides free language assistance and TTY services; call 800‑926‑2588. Eligibility rules depend on status—apply and let DHW determine. WIC and immunizations are widely accessible; clinics provide interpreters. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Tribal‑specific resources:
- Nimiipuu Health (Lapwai/Kamiah): 208‑843‑2271 / 208‑935‑0733. (nimiipuuhealth.org)
- Shoshone‑Bannock Community Health Center (Fort Hall): 208‑530‑9405. IHS Fort Hall Service Unit: 208‑238‑5400. (sbtchc.org, ihs.gov)
- Kootenai Tribal Health Clinic (Bonners Ferry): 208‑267‑5223. (kootenai.org)
Rural single moms with limited access:
- Use MTM for rides (877‑503‑1261), ask clinics for telehealth, and contact Your Health Idaho for local assister support. (mtm-inc.net, yourhealthidaho.org)
Single fathers raising kids:
- The same children’s Medicaid/CHIP and WIC rules apply to dads. Apply through Idalink; bring custody or guardianship documents if asked. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Language access:
- DHW offers language assistance in many languages at 800‑926‑2588; TTY 711. Clinics can arrange interpreters; use 7‑1‑1 relay if needed. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Marketplace Open Enrollment Details (so you don’t miss deadlines)
| Topic | 2025 Facts for Idaho |
|---|---|
| Annual Open Enrollment window | Oct 15–Dec 15 each year |
| 2025 enrollment deadline | Dec 16, 2024 |
| Special Enrollment | Usually 60 days after qualifying event (e.g., loss of Medicaid, move, birth) |
| Carriers | 8 carriers in 2025 statewide |
| Help | Your Health Idaho 855‑944‑3246; free local assisters |
Sources: Your Health Idaho enrollment pages and Idaho Department of Insurance release. (yourhealthidaho.org, doi.idaho.gov)
Useful extras for families on Medicaid/CHIP
- Transportation: schedule rides via MTM (877‑503‑1261) at least 2 business days ahead. (mtm-inc.net)
- Dental: call MCNA (855‑233‑6262) to pick a dentist. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Pharmacy: Prime Therapeutics member line 888‑773‑9466. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Immunization records: ask your provider or use Idaho’s Docket app (via IRIS). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Home visiting for parenting support: find your district’s program. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
FAQs (Idaho‑specific)
- How fast can I get approved for Medicaid or CHIP?
- DHW can take up to 45 days to process applications. Respond quickly to any requests. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Does Idaho really cover moms for a full year after birth?
- Yes. Idaho’s State Plan Amendment was approved effective January 1, 2025, giving 12 months postpartum coverage. (medicaid.gov)
- What are the 2025 Medicaid income limits for adults?
- Example: 2‑person household 2,433∗∗/month;3‑person∗∗2,433**/month; 3‑person **3,065/month. See the full table above. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Up to what income can my child get CHIP?
- 2025 example: family of 4 up to $5,091/month. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Is there a premium for CHIP?
- There may be a small monthly premium per child at certain incomes; the state bills you directly with the exact amount. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Who handles dental for Idaho Medicaid?
- MCNA Dental (Idaho Smiles). Member hotline 855‑233‑6262. Adults have access to enhanced dental benefits. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- How do I get to appointments without a car?
- Use MTM NEMT at 877‑503‑1261. Call at least 2 business days before the visit. (mtm-inc.net)
- Where can I get help in my language?
- DHW provides free language assistance and TTY services: 800‑926‑2588, TTY 711. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- When can I enroll in a marketplace plan if I lose Medicaid?
- You have 60 days after losing Medicaid to enroll through Your Health Idaho (special enrollment). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- What if my child needs services beyond the plan limits?
- Ask your provider to request EPSDT—Medicaid must cover medically necessary services for kids under 21 even if the basic plan normally wouldn’t. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Regional & Community Resources (selected)
- Public Health clinics also provide WIC, reproductive health, and immunizations on a sliding fee. Start with your district office via the WIC application page. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Free Clinics finder (Genesis in Garden City/Caldwell, Wellness Tree in Twin Falls, Pocatello Free Clinic, Snake River Community Clinic in Lewiston, and more). (idahoafcc.org)
- Tribal health clinics (Nimiipuu Health Lapwai/Kamiah 208‑843‑2271/208‑935‑0733; Shoshone‑Bannock CHC 208‑530‑9405; Kootenai Tribal Health Clinic 208‑267‑5223). (nimiipuuhealth.org, sbtchc.org, kootenai.org)
Reality checks, warnings, and pro tips
- Expect paperwork. Keep screenshots of uploads and note dates. If you can, upload documents the same day DHW asks.
- CHIP premiums (if billed) must be paid on time to keep coverage. Put reminders on your phone.
- Keep your address updated within 10 days to avoid missing renewal mail. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Use benefits early: pick a primary care clinic, schedule well‑child checks, and set up dental visits. Preventive care is covered.
- Transportation is not automatic—call MTM 877‑503‑1261 at least 2 business days ahead. (mtm-inc.net)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, CMS/Medicaid, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards and relies on primary government sources, which we archive and monitor. We verify income limits, coverage rules, contact numbers, and timelines against official pages and update rapidly after policy changes (e.g., postpartum coverage effective January 1, 2025). We operate independently and do not receive compensation from programs referenced. Individual eligibility outcomes are not guaranteed. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. Corrections? Email info@asinglemother.org.
Disclaimer
Program rules, amounts, and deadlines change. Always verify details with the relevant agency before acting. We link to official Idaho and federal resources throughout this guide.
Security note: To protect your privacy, only submit documents through official state portals (Idalink), secure email addresses listed on DHW sites, or in person at DHW offices. Avoid sharing Social Security numbers or medical details over public Wi‑Fi or with third parties not listed here.
Sources (selected)
- Idaho DHW: Medicaid Program Income Limits (Jan 2025); Apply for Medicaid; Children’s Medicaid; Pregnancy Coverage; EPSDT; Dental/MCNA; NEMT; Pharmacy (Prime Therapeutics); Manage my Medicaid. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Federal/other official: HHS/ASPE 2025 FPL; CMS SPA approval ID‑25‑0001 postpartum; Idaho DOInsurance 2025 carriers; Your Health Idaho enrollment pages; Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline; MTM Idaho; Optum Idaho. (aspe.hhs.gov, medicaid.gov, doi.idaho.gov, yourhealthidaho.org, idahocrisis.org, mtm-inc.net, dev.optumidaho.com)
- WIC: Apply for WIC—current income limits (July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
This guide is designed to be a real‑world hub: exact numbers, timelines, and the direct links and phone numbers you need to take action today.
🏛️More Idaho Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Idaho
- 📋 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
