Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Maryland: Medicaid, MCHP & More [2025]

Last updated: September 2025

This is a no‑fluff, numbers‑first guide to getting healthcare coverage and care in Maryland if you’re a single mom. Every amount and rule below is linked to an official source so you can move fast and avoid mistakes.

Quick Help Box

• Maryland Health Connection (apply for Medicaid/MCHP/Marketplace plans) — Call 1‑855‑642‑8572; get free local help and interpreters. Get help from Maryland Health Connection. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
• HealthChoice (Medicaid managed care) help line — 1‑800‑284‑4510 for plan issues, changing MCOs, or help with authorizations. HealthChoice member help. (health.maryland.gov)
• Medicaid dental (Maryland Healthy Smiles) — Member line 1‑855‑934‑9812. Dental benefits and provider search. (health.maryland.gov)
• Behavioral health (mental health/substance use) — Public Behavioral Health System participant help 1‑800‑888‑1965; Crisis? Call/text 988. BHA 988 info. (health.maryland.gov)
• Breast & Cervical Cancer screening/treatment — Statewide line 1‑800‑477‑9774. Free screening program (BCCP) and treatment (BCCDT). (health.maryland.gov)
• Find your local health department (prenatal/WIC/transport/clinics) — County phone list. Local Health Departments. (health.maryland.gov)

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What’s in this guide

• Who qualifies for Medicaid, MCHP (CHIP), and pregnancy coverage in 2025 (with exact dollar limits)
• How to apply fast (online, phone, and in‑person), documents to bring, and realistic timelines
• Dental, mental health, transportation, cancer screening, and family planning programs
• Marketplace coverage (open enrollment dates, subsidies, and the Maryland Young Adult Subsidy)
• Hospital financial assistance (free and discounted care)
• Help if you’re denied — appeals, ombudsmen, and legal backup
• Local organizations and clinics that actually pick up the phone
• FAQs, a quick‑reference cheat sheet, and an application checklist

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The 2025 Income Limits You Need To Know (Medicaid, MCHP, Pregnancy)

Action first: check your monthly income against the table below. If you’re close to the limit, apply anyway — many families qualify once deductions and household rules are applied.

Maryland uses the 2025 federal poverty guidelines. Adults qualify up to roughly 138% FPL; pregnant individuals up to about 264% FPL; children up to about 322% FPL. The State posts the exact monthly limits below, effective January 1, 2025. View the official MDH income limits page. (health.maryland.gov)

Table A — 2025 Monthly Income Limits (Effective Jan 1, 2025)

Official source: Maryland Department of Health. (health.maryland.gov)

Note: These limits align with 2025 HHS poverty guidelines (48 states/DC) of $15,650(1‑person),$21,150 (2‑person), $26,650 (3‑person), etc. See federal 2025 poverty guidelines. (aspe.hhs.gov)

Reality check: If your income is a bit higher than the table, still apply. Maryland’s rules exclude some income and there are exceptions — the State explicitly says “You may still be eligible if your income is higher than the limit listed.” (health.maryland.gov)

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Medicaid for Adults (19–64): What it covers, how to apply, timelines

Most single mothers age 19–64 qualify for full Medicaid if monthly household income is at or under the “Adults” column in Table A. Coverage includes primary care, hospital care, prescriptions, behavioral health, and dental via the Maryland Healthy Smiles program. Medicaid overview and enrollment. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)

How to apply (fastest first)

• Online or mobile app: Create an account at Maryland Health Connection. Application available daily 6 a.m.–11 p.m. (site posts current hours). (dev-mdt-www.mhbe.mymdthink.maryland.gov)
• Phone: Call 1‑855‑642‑8572 (Relay 7‑1‑1). Ask for interpreter services if needed (free). MHC nondiscrimination & language access. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
• In person, free help: Find a navigator or broker in your county. Find local help. You can also apply at a local health department or DSS. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)

Required documents (have photos ready if uploading):

• ID and proof of Maryland residency
• Social Security numbers (if you have them)
• Immigration document (if not a U.S. citizen — many “lawfully present” categories qualify)
• Recent pay stubs or proof of income; child support received; unemployment if any
• For caregivers: proof children live with you (school, mail, or lease with both names)

Realistic timelines:

• Maryland follows federal timeliness standards; non‑disability Medicaid applications are generally acted on within about 30–45 days (shorter if you qualify via “presumptive eligibility” at a hospital or clinic). COMAR references set processing standards and allow immediate temporary coverage via presumptive eligibility. COMAR 10.01.04.02; presumptive eligibility overview, hospital/qualified entity presumptive eligibility. (health.maryland.gov)

What you’ll pay:

• Medicaid has no monthly premiums. Small copays are rare in Maryland’s managed care program; dental has no copays for covered services. HealthChoice member help; Healthy Smiles member info. (health.maryland.gov)

Common pitfalls to avoid:

• Waiting to report a change. Report new income, address, pregnancy, or newborns right away through your MHC account or call center to prevent gaps. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
• Not picking an MCO (health plan). You have a short window to choose; otherwise you’ll be auto‑assigned. Use the HealthChoice MCO comparison chart and help line 1‑800‑284‑4510. HealthChoice home. (health.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Appeal if denied or delayed — you can request a case review through MHC and a state hearing if needed. Keep your coverage while appealing by filing within the deadlines. MHC appeals; Medicaid fair hearings. (marylandhealthconnection.gov, health.maryland.gov)

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Medicaid During Pregnancy & After Delivery (including non‑citizen options)

Don’t wait — apply as soon as you know you’re pregnant. Maryland gives higher income limits during pregnancy (see Table A under “Pregnant Individuals”). Coverage includes prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care.

• Medicaid‑eligible pregnant individuals receive full benefits during pregnancy and 12 months of postpartum coverage regardless of income changes. Effective April 1, 2022, per Maryland Department of Health. MDH postpartum expansion announcement. (health.maryland.gov)
• Non‑citizen “Healthy Babies” coverage: If you’re not eligible for full Medicaid due to immigration status, Maryland offers state‑funded coverage from pregnancy start through 4 months postpartum, with retroactive coverage up to three months within the pregnancy period. Healthy Babies (pregnancy & postpartum coverage); see also MHC page noting non‑citizen pregnancy coverage. How to enroll in Medicaid (MHC). (health.maryland.gov, marylandhealthconnection.gov)

Extra supports you can use now:

• Home visiting (free for Medicaid members who are pregnant or ≤3 months postpartum; nurse/home visitor support through baby’s 2nd–3rd birthday). Medicaid Home Visiting. (health.maryland.gov)
• Maternal Opioid Misuse (MOM) case management (enroll if you need support with OUD during/after pregnancy). MOM program. (health.maryland.gov)
• Family planning only coverage (no premiums, no copays for birth control; not for prenatal care). Helpline 1‑800‑456‑8900. Medicaid Family Planning Program. (health.maryland.gov)

Required documents:

• Proof you live in Maryland; ID; pregnancy proof (doctor/nurse note is fine); income proof; immigration document if applicable.

Timeline tips:

• Pregnancy applications are prioritized. You may also qualify for “presumptive eligibility” at participating clinics/hospitals for immediate temporary coverage. Presumptive eligibility info. (health.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re ineligible for full Medicaid, enroll in Healthy Babies (non‑citizen pregnancy coverage) or use Family Planning (birth control/STI testing) immediately, then re‑apply after birth for baby’s coverage (babies of covered mothers are eligible from birth). (health.maryland.gov)

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Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP) and Medicaid for Kids

Children in Maryland are covered up to much higher incomes — in 2025, up to about 322% of poverty (see “Children” column in Table A). Apply any time of year. MCHP program page. (health.maryland.gov)

Big update that many guides miss:

• As of May 1, 2024, Maryland ended MCHP Premium payments. If your children were in “MCHP Premium,” there are now no monthly premiums — coverage stays the same. Official MDH notice for MCHP Premium participants. (health.maryland.gov)

Covered services for kids (through HealthChoice MCOs) include medical, prescriptions, dental, vision, behavioral health, transportation to care, and more. MCHP benefits overview. (health.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your income is temporarily over the children’s limit, get a Marketplace plan with premium tax credits for your child during the gap (see Marketplace section), and keep an eye on renewals — children have 12‑month continuous coverage once enrolled. Maryland implemented 12‑month continuous eligibility for kids; see State regulatory and budget notes. (dsd.maryland.gov)

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Dental Care: Maryland Healthy Smiles (children and adults)

Every Medicaid member with full benefits gets dental through the Maryland Healthy Smiles Dental Program (MHSDP). There are no premiums, deductibles, or copays for covered services and no yearly maximum. Member line 1‑855‑934‑9812. Program details & directory. (health.maryland.gov)

Covered basics for all ages: exams, cleanings, fluoride, X‑rays, fillings, root canals, crowns, extractions, anesthesia. Children also get sealants/orthodontics when medically necessary. Adults have a limited benefit set; dentures for adults 21+ are not covered (denture adjustments are). See program page and dental regulations for specifics. Healthy Smiles page; Dental regulations excerpt. (health.maryland.gov)

If you’re on both Medicare and Medicaid (dual eligible) and age 21–64, adult dental is limited to certain services, up to $800 per calendar year (per regulations). Dental regs — dual eligible limit. (health.maryland.gov)

Find a dentist:

• Use the Healthy Smiles directory at the link above, or call 1‑855‑934‑9812 for help finding a provider. (health.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Check your county health department’s public dental clinic list or the MD Oral Health Resource Guide (English/Spanish). Local Health Dept dental services list; Oral Health Resource Guide 2025. (health.maryland.gov)

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Mental Health & Substance Use Care

Maryland’s Public Behavioral Health System (PBHS) covers many mental health and substance use services. Participant line 1‑800‑888‑1965 (24/7 crisis available). If you’re in crisis, call/text 988. PBHS participant page/ASO notices; 988 Maryland. (health.maryland.gov)

Important 2025 change:

• Maryland transitioned administration of PBHS to Carelon Behavioral Health in 2025; providers were required to register with Carelon. Members still call 1‑800‑888‑1965 and use 988 for crisis. MDH PBHS transition notices. (health.maryland.gov)

School‑based mental health:

• In 2025, Maryland expanded Medicaid payment for certain school‑based behavioral health services to all Medicaid‑enrolled students (not just IEP/IFSP). MDH school‑based mental health expansion (Feb 24, 2025). (health.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call 988 for immediate crisis support. For PBHS complaints, start with your provider/MCO, then escalate to PBHS (800‑888‑1965). You can also file a complaint with the Behavioral Health Administration. BHA contact. (health.maryland.gov)

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Transportation to Medical Appointments (NEMT)

If you have Medicaid and no other way to get to a covered appointment, you may qualify for Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) through your county health department. Call your local health department to schedule. Local Health Department list. Example: Queen Anne’s County rides line 443‑262‑4462. (health.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your MCO if they offer additional transportation benefits. If denied, request the reason in writing and appeal through HealthChoice (see appeals section below). HealthChoice member help. (health.maryland.gov)

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Cancer Screening & Treatment Programs for Uninsured/Underinsured

• Free screenings: Maryland’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program (BCCP) provides mammograms, Pap tests, and more to eligible women (generally up to 250% FPL). Statewide intake 1‑800‑477‑9774. BCCP. (health.maryland.gov)
• Treatment coverage: If you’re diagnosed and eligible, the Breast and Cervical Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment (BCCDT) Program can cover care. Call 410‑767‑6787 or 1‑800‑477‑9774. BCCDT program. (health.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Talk to your hospital about financial assistance (see the hospital section below) and ask your local health department for additional screening resources. Local Health Department list. (health.maryland.gov)

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Family Planning Only Coverage (if you don’t qualify for full Medicaid)

If you don’t qualify for full Medicaid but need birth control, STI testing, or cervical/breast cancer screening & diagnosis only, the Medicaid Family Planning Program is free, with no premiums or copays for birth control. Helpline 1‑800‑456‑8900. Not for prenatal care or infertility services. Family Planning Program; Program FAQs. (health.maryland.gov, marylandhealthconnection.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use a Title X clinic through your county health department — services are low or no cost regardless of immigration or insurance status. Local Health Department list. (health.maryland.gov)

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Marketplace Coverage (Maryland Health Connection) — when Medicaid doesn’t fit

If your income is above Medicaid levels, buy a private plan and get federal tax credits (and possibly State help for young adults). Open Enrollment runs Nov 1 – Jan 15 each year; enroll by Dec 31 for Jan 1 coverage or by Jan 15 for Feb 1 coverage. Maryland Manual: Health Benefit Exchange overview & dates. (msa.maryland.gov)

• Maryland’s Young Adult Subsidy (state‑based financial help) was made permanent in 2025 (sunset repeal enacted July 1, 2025). If you’re a young adult, you may see extra savings at checkout. HB0297 Chapter 721 (2025). (mgaleg.maryland.gov)
• Special Enrollment Periods: If you lose Medicaid, move, have a baby, divorce, or lose other coverage, you can enroll outside Open Enrollment. Call 1‑855‑642‑8572 or find a navigator. Find help. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re undocumented, Maryland is working on allowing purchase of coverage on the exchange (pending federal waiver, earliest start expected in 2026). Meanwhile, use FQHCs and hospital financial assistance below. Maryland HB to enable exchange purchase for undocumented — legislative/press coverage. (apnews.com)

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Hospital Financial Assistance (Free & Discounted Care)

Maryland law requires every acute hospital to offer free and reduced‑cost medically necessary care:

• Free care for households at or below 200% FPL.
• Reduced‑cost care for 200%+ FPL (must have a payment plan option between 200%–500% FPL).
• Presumptive eligibility for free care if you receive SNAP, WIC, Energy Assistance, or your kids get free/reduced‑price meals.

This is in state law and HSCRC regulations. Start with the Uniform Financial Assistance Application and contact the HSCRC if you have collection/medical debt issues. Health‑General §19‑214.1; HSCRC uniform application; consumer complaints: hscrc.patient‑complaints@maryland.gov. (mgaleg.maryland.gov, hscrc.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Get help from the Attorney General’s Health Education and Advocacy Unit (HEAU): 877‑261‑8807 (Spanish 410‑230‑1712). MHC appeals page lists HEAU contacts. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)

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WIC: Nutrition for Moms and Kids Under 5 (Money for Fruits & Veggies)

Even though WIC isn’t health insurance, it’s health‑critical. For FY 2025 (Oct 2024–Sept 2025), the monthly fruit/vegetable cash‑value benefit is:

Table B — WIC Fruit & Vegetable Monthly Benefit (FY 2025)

USDA final policy for FY2025 CVB amounts. USDA FNS memo. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)

How to enroll:

• Contact your local health department (see county list) and ask for WIC, or apply via your county WIC office. County list of health departments. (health.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your pediatric clinic or FQHC to connect you directly to WIC staff; many clinics co‑locate WIC enrollment.

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Real‑World Examples (so you can see where you fit)

• Example A — Mom with 2 kids (household of 3), earning $2,900/month\ast \ast :Asaparent/caretaker,you’reundertheadultMedicaidlimit(\ast \ast$3,065), so you should qualify for full Medicaid. Your children qualify too (children’s limit is $7,152). Income limits. (health.maryland.gov)
• Example B — Pregnant single mom with one child (household of 2), earning $4,600/month\ast \ast :You’rewithinthepregnancylimit(\ast \ast$4,654), so you should qualify during pregnancy and get 12 months postpartum. Your child is eligible under the children’s limit ($5,677). Income limits; postpartum expansion, postpartum 12 months. (health.maryland.gov)
• Example C — Undocumented and pregnant, earning $3,800/month (household of 2): You may qualify under Healthy Babies for pregnancy care plus 4 months postpartum. After birth, enroll your newborn in Medicaid/MCHP right away. Healthy Babies. (health.maryland.gov)

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Step‑By‑Step: How to Apply (and what to upload)

1. Create an account and apply at Maryland Health Connection, or call 1‑855‑642‑8572 for help in your language. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
2. Upload clear photos of:

• Photo ID and a document showing your Maryland address (lease, mail, utility)
• Social Security numbers (if you have them)
• Immigration document if applicable
• Last 30 days of income (pay stubs, benefit letters, self‑employment ledger)
• If pregnant: doctor/clinic note with due date
• If claiming children: proof they live with you (school letter, mail, lease)

3. Pick your MCO (health plan) promptly after approval; call 1‑800‑284‑4510 if you need help choosing or to fix provider issues. HealthChoice help. (health.maryland.gov)
4. Dental: once your red‑and‑white Medicaid card is active, call 1‑855‑934‑9812 or use the Healthy Smiles portal to find a dentist. (health.maryland.gov)
5. Transportation: if you have no ride to a covered appointment, call your local health department NEMT line. County list. (health.maryland.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Apply/Help — Maryland Health Connection: 1‑855‑642‑8572; Find local help. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
• Choose/fix Medicaid MCO (HealthChoice): 1‑800‑284‑4510. Member help. (health.maryland.gov)
• Dental (Healthy Smiles): 1‑855‑934‑9812. Dental benefits. (health.maryland.gov)
• Mental Health/Substance Use: 1‑800‑888‑1965; Crisis 988. 988 Maryland. (health.maryland.gov)
• Cancer screening/treatment intake: 1‑800‑477‑9774. BCCP/BCCDT. (health.maryland.gov)
• Local health dept (prenatal/WIC/NEMT): County phone list. Find your LHD. (health.maryland.gov)

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Application Checklist (print this)

• Maryland photo ID and a piece of mail (address)
• SSNs (if you have them)
• Immigration document (if applicable)
• Income proof (pay stubs, benefits, self‑employment ledger)
• Pregnancy proof (if pregnant)
• Children’s proof of residence (school/medical mail, lease)
• Current insurance information (if any)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the MCO selection window — leads to auto‑assignment to a plan that may not include your doctors. Call 1‑800‑284‑4510 to change if needed. (health.maryland.gov)
• Not asking for language help — interpreters are free under State and federal rules. Your MCO must provide oral interpretation and materials in prevalent languages at no cost. COMAR language access for MCOs. (health.maryland.gov)
• Skipping hospital financial assistance — if your income is ≤200% FPL, you qualify for free hospital care; get and submit the uniform application. State law & HSCRC info. (mgaleg.maryland.gov)
• Relying on old MCHP info — as of May 1, 2024, MCHP Premium has no premiums. Don’t send payments. MDH notice. (health.maryland.gov)

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If You’re Denied or Stuck: Appeals and Ombudsmen

• Maryland Health Connection case review/appeal (Medicaid, MCHP, APTC/CSR decisions): instructions and addresses are here. MHC appeals. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
• Medicaid fair hearing: appeal within 90 days; to keep coverage while appealing, act within 10 days of the notice. Medicaid appeals page; Office of Administrative Hearings info. (health.maryland.gov, oah.maryland.gov)
• HealthChoice plan problems: 1‑800‑284‑4510 or use the online help form. HealthChoice help. (health.maryland.gov)
• Hospital billing/debt: email hscrc.patient‑complaints@maryland.gov or call HEAU 877‑261‑8807 (Spanish 410‑230‑1712). HSCRC consumer page; MHC appeals page with HEAU info. (hscrc.maryland.gov, marylandhealthconnection.gov)

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Benefits Beyond Insurance: School‑Based Health Centers & Home Visiting

• School‑Based Health Centers: Maryland has 89 school‑based clinics across 16 jurisdictions (primary care, behavioral health, some dental). Ask your school. State SBHC program. (health.maryland.gov)
• Home Visiting (Medicaid): in‑home prenatal/postpartum support is free if you’re a Medicaid member and pregnant or ≤3 months postpartum. Home Visiting. (health.maryland.gov)

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Special Health Needs & Disabilities

• Model Waiver for medically fragile children (parents’ income is not counted; cap of 200 statewide): Call the Coordinating Center 410‑987‑1048 (Baltimore) or 301‑621‑7830 (Washington). Model Waiver fact sheet. (health.maryland.gov)
• Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) waivers and supports for children with I/DD: contact DDA Constituent Services 410‑456‑7837 and review waiver application steps. DDA contacts and waivers, DDA waiver application process. (health.maryland.gov)

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Diverse Communities: Practical Pointers and Resources

LGBTQ+ single mothers

• Gender‑affirming care is covered by Maryland Medicaid effective Jan 1, 2024 (hormones, surgeries, voice therapy, hair removal, fertility preservation, and more — when medically necessary). MDH news release; Member info page. (health.maryland.gov)
• LGBTQ‑friendly FQHC: Chase Brexton Health Care (multiple sites). Appointments 410‑837‑2050. Locations & phone. (chasebrexton.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children

• See Model Waiver and DDA waivers above. Ask your MCO for care coordination; if denied services, appeal quickly (see appeals section). (health.maryland.gov)

Veteran single mothers

• You may qualify for VA healthcare plus Medicaid/MCHP for children. Ask your local health department or VA Maryland Health Care System to coordinate benefits. (Use MHC or LHD links in this guide to connect; VA rules vary.)

Immigrant/refugee single moms

• Non‑citizen pregnancy coverage through Healthy Babies (pregnancy through 4 months postpartum), plus Family Planning clinics regardless of status. Healthy Babies; Family Planning. (health.maryland.gov)
• Free/low‑cost care for uninsured immigrants: Esperanza Center (Baltimore) — medical and dental for uninsured immigrants under 200% FPL. Health Services 667‑600‑2942. Esperanza Center Health Services. (cc-md.org)

Tribal citizens

• Use Medicaid/MCHP as above; if you receive services through tribal/urban Indian programs or IHS, bring that info to your navigator so your plan coordinates billing. (Contact your county health department for local I/T/U clinic connections.) LHD list. (health.maryland.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access

• Leverage School‑Based Health Centers, mobile clinics via your county Health Dept, and use telehealth through your MCO. Transportation (NEMT) can reimburse friends/family for gas in some counties — ask your LHD NEMT office (example: Queen Anne’s). Queen Anne’s NEMT. (health.maryland.gov)

Single fathers

• All programs here apply to single fathers and caregivers in Maryland; income rules and applications are the same. Use the same contacts and links.

Language access

• Your MCO must provide free interpreters, translated written materials in prevalent languages, and auxiliary aids. MHC provides interpreters in 200+ languages via the call center. COMAR language access; MHC language services. (health.maryland.gov, marylandhealthconnection.gov)

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Local Organizations and Clinics That Actually Help

• HealthCare Access Maryland (navigators, Baltimore metro and beyond) — Connector Call Center 410‑500‑4710. HCAM contacts. (healthcareaccessmaryland.org)
• Chase Brexton Health Care (LGBTQ‑friendly FQHC, multiple sites) — 410‑837‑2050. Locations. (chasebrexton.org)
• Baltimore Medical System (FQHC network) — appointments 443‑703‑3600. Contact & centers. (bmsi.org)
• Esperanza Center (free care for uninsured immigrants, Baltimore) — Health Services 667‑600‑2942. Esperanza Health Services. (cc-md.org)
• County Health Departments — prenatal clinics, WIC, immunizations, family planning, and transportation. County phone list. (health.maryland.gov)

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Tables You Can Screenshot

Table C — Key Hotlines & Websites

(marylandhealthconnection.gov, health.maryland.gov)

Table D — What Starts When?

Sources: MDH Healthy Babies; postpartum expansion; Maryland Manual (open enrollment). (health.maryland.gov, msa.maryland.gov)

Table E — Dental Coverage Snapshot (Medicaid)

Sources: Healthy Smiles page; dental regs. (health.maryland.gov)

Table F — WIC Fruit & Veg Benefit (FY 2025)

Source: USDA FNS policy memo for FY2025 CVB. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)

Table G — Common Application Docs (Keep Handy)

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Region‑By‑Region Quick Pointers

Baltimore City/County

• Navigators: HealthCare Access Maryland (410‑500‑4710). HCAM. (healthcareaccessmaryland.org)
• FQHCs: Chase Brexton (410‑837‑2050); Baltimore Medical System (443‑703‑3600). Chase Brexton locations; BMS contact. (chasebrexton.org, bmsi.org)
• Uninsured immigrant care: Esperanza Center (667‑600‑2942). Esperanza Health Services. (cc-md.org)

Montgomery & Prince George’s

• Use MHC Find Help to reach county navigators; county health departments run family planning/WIC/clinical services. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)

Eastern Shore

• NEMT and public clinics via county health departments; call your county number from the LHD list. Mission of Mercy free dental events also rotate through the Shore. Eastern Shore MOM site. (health.maryland.gov, easternshoremom.org)

Western & Southern Maryland

• Health departments coordinate WIC, prenatal, and NEMT; some counties offer home visiting and “Healthy Families” programs (e.g., St. Mary’s 301‑475‑4330). St. Mary’s programs. (smchd.org)

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10 Maryland‑Specific FAQs

1. My income is a little over the Medicaid limit. Should I still apply?
   Yes. Maryland notes you “may still be eligible if your income is higher than the limit listed” due to allowable income rules. Apply and let the system calculate. MDH income limits page. (health.maryland.gov)
2. Are there premiums for kids’ MCHP anymore?
   No. As of May 1, 2024, MCHP Premium payments ended. Coverage remains; do not send payments. MDH notice. (health.maryland.gov)
3. How long does a Medicaid decision take?
   Maryland follows federal timeliness standards. Non‑disability applications are typically acted on within about 30–45 days; you may get temporary “presumptive eligibility” sooner at hospitals/qualified sites. COMAR references & presumptive eligibility. (health.maryland.gov)
4. Do pregnant people get 12 months postpartum?
   If you’re Medicaid‑eligible during pregnancy, yes — 12 months postpartum regardless of income changes. Non‑citizen Healthy Babies coverage is 4 months postpartum. Postpartum expansion; Healthy Babies. (health.maryland.gov)
5. Is adult dental really covered?
   Yes, adults with full Medicaid have a limited dental benefit (exams/cleanings/X‑rays/fillings/extractions, etc.). Dentures for adults 21+ are not covered (denture adjustments are). Dual eligibles 21–64 have $800 per calendar year for specified services. Healthy Smiles; dental regs. (health.maryland.gov)
6. I was auto‑assigned to an MCO that my pediatrician doesn’t take. Can I change?
   Yes. Call 1‑800‑284‑4510 (HealthChoice helpline). There are windows to change; ask for assistance. HealthChoice help. (health.maryland.gov)
7. My hospital bill is huge. Do I qualify for free care?
   If your household income is ≤200% FPL, you qualify for free medically necessary hospital care; there’s also reduced‑cost care above that and payment plans 200–500% FPL. Use the HSCRC Uniform Financial Assistance Application. State law & HSCRC info, Uniform application. (mgaleg.maryland.gov, hscrc.maryland.gov)
8. Where can I get mental health care quickly?
   For emergencies call/text 988. For PBHS services and provider help call 1‑800‑888‑1965. 988 Maryland; PBHS info. (health.maryland.gov)
9. I don’t have a ride. Can Medicaid help?
   Yes. Call your local health department NEMT office to schedule rides for covered appointments. County list. (health.maryland.gov)
10. I need language help to apply and at appointments. Is it free?
    Yes. MHC and your MCO must provide interpreter services and translated materials at no cost. MHC nondiscrimination & language access; COMAR language access. (marylandhealthconnection.gov, health.maryland.gov)

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Content gaps we fixed vs. typical Google results

• Accurate 2025 income limits (Adults, Pregnant, Children) with exact monthly figures; many guides still show 2023–2024 numbers. MDH 2025 income limits. (health.maryland.gov)
• MCHP Premium payments ended May 1, 2024 — we highlight the “no premiums” change many sites miss. MDH MCHP notice. (health.maryland.gov)
• Non‑citizen pregnancy coverage (Healthy Babies) is 4 months postpartum — a nuance often confused with the 12‑month postpartum rule for Medicaid‑eligible pregnancies. Healthy Babies. (health.maryland.gov)
• Adult dental: we spell out covered vs. not covered (e.g., no dentures for adults 21+), link the regs, and give the $800 dual‑eligible cap. Dental regs. (health.maryland.gov)
• Direct county and program phone numbers (MHC, HealthChoice, dental, PBHS, BCCP) and appeals instructions with timelines. (marylandhealthconnection.gov, health.maryland.gov)

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What to do next (in order)

• Apply now through Maryland Health Connection or call 1‑855‑642‑8572.
• Pick your MCO right away; if you need help choosing, call 1‑800‑284‑4510.
• Book dental/behavioral health appointments and arrange transportation if needed.
• If you get a hospital bill you can’t pay, request financial assistance right away.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Maryland Department of Health, Maryland Health Connection, HSCRC, USDA/FNS, and established nonprofits. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

• Program rules, dollar amounts, phone numbers, and web pages can change at any time. Always verify directly with the agency links provided in this guide before you act.
• Health content here is for general information; it is not medical, legal, or tax advice.
• We do not collect personal health information on this page. For your privacy and security, never share Social Security numbers, immigration documents, or medical details over unsecured email or social media.
• If you believe your personal data is at risk, use official agency portals linked above and avoid clicking on unknown links or attachments.

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🏛️More Maryland Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maryland

• 📋 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