Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Mississippi
Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Mississippi: Medicaid, CHIP & More [2025]
Last updated: September 2025
Mississippi has several no‑ or low‑cost health coverage options for you and your kids. This guide shows exact 2025 income limits, who qualifies, how to apply fast, what documents to bring, and where to get help if you’re denied.
Quick Help (fast actions + live contacts)
- Apply or check status online: Access.ms.gov (Mississippi’s Medicaid & CHIP portal). For phone help call 800‑421‑2408. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- 2025 income limits (Medicaid, Pregnant Women, Family Planning, CHIP): see the current chart and dollar amounts effective Mar 1, 2025. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Pregnant? Ask for “Presumptive Eligibility” so prenatal visits are covered right away while your application is processed. Show your clinic this page: Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Find your local Medicaid Regional Office (30 locations) and call directly (phones listed): Medicaid Office Locations. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Non‑emergency rides to the doctor (Medicaid): call 866‑331‑6004 (scheduling) or 866‑334‑3794 (Where’s My Ride). Fee‑for‑Service + Magnolia rides use these numbers. Molina and TrueCare have separate lines below. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Mental health anytime: DMH Helpline 877‑210‑8513 (24/7). Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 988. (dmh.ms.gov)
- WIC for moms/young kids (food + nutrition): statewide WIC line 800‑545‑6747. 2025 fruit/veggie monthly amounts: kids 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025). (msdh.ms.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (what to try first)
| Situation | Best next step | Why this first? | 
|---|---|---|
| You’re pregnant now | Apply at Access.ms.gov and ask your OB/FQHC for “Presumptive Eligibility” so prenatal care is covered immediately. | Pregnant women qualify up to 194% FPL and get 12 months postpartum coverage; presumptive eligibility can start coverage before the state finishes your case. (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
| Your kids need coverage | Apply for Medicaid/CHIP at Access.ms.gov. | Kids are covered at higher income levels (up to 209% FPL in CHIP). (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
| You have no car/ride | Call Modivcare to book Medicaid rides: 866‑331‑6004 (or your plan’s line below). | Medicaid pays for medically‑necessary trips if you lack transport. (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
| You were denied | Request an eligibility hearing within 30 days (keep current coverage if you appeal within 15 days). Call 800‑421‑2408. | These are your official appeal timeframes. (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
| You don’t qualify for Medicaid (income too high) | Check low‑cost Marketplace plans with financial help at HealthCare.gov or call 800‑318‑2596. | Open Enrollment is Nov 1–Jan 15; special enrollments possible after life changes. (cms.gov) | 
2025 Income Limits in Mississippi (Exact Dollar Amounts)
Effective March 1, 2025. Monthly MAGI income limits by household size. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Pregnant Women & Family Planning (194% FPL)
| Family Size | Monthly Income | 
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,596 | 
| 2 | $3,508 | 
| 3 | $4,420 | 
| 4 | $5,332 | 
Add $890 for each extra person. Pregnant women receive 12 months postpartum coverage. Family Planning Waiver covers contraceptive visits/services for ages 13–44 (limited benefits). (medicaid.ms.gov)
Children (Medicaid) and CHIP (209% FPL)
- Infants 0–1: Medicaid up to 194% FPL; CHIP 194–209% FPL
- Ages 1–5: Medicaid up to 143% FPL; CHIP 143–209% FPL
- Ages 6–18: Medicaid up to 133% FPL; CHIP 133–209% FPL (medicaid.ms.gov)
CHIP 209% FPL monthly amounts:
| Family Size | Monthly Income Ceiling | 
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,791 | 
| 2 | $3,772 | 
| 3 | $4,753 | 
| 4 | $5,734 | 
Add $958 per extra person. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Parents/Caretaker Relatives (very low threshold)
| Family Size | Monthly Income | 
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 | 
| 2 | $394 | 
| 3 | $495 | 
| 4 | $596 | 
Thresholds are very low, so most single moms qualify through pregnancy/kids instead. (medicaid.ms.gov)
How to Apply (fastest routes + documents)
Start here—this is the quickest way to get coverage moving.
- Apply online at Access.ms.gov (Mississippi’s Common Web Portal). You can also fax to 601‑576‑4164, mail to P.O. Box 2222, Jackson, MS 39225, or apply in person at your Regional Office. For help call 800‑421‑2408. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Required documents (upload during the application): SSNs for applicants, dates of birth, last month’s income (pay stubs/W‑2), any current health insurance info, and details on job‑based insurance offers. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Timelines: by federal rule, decisions must be made within 45 days (or 90 days if disability is involved). If info is missing or there’s an emergency beyond the agency’s control, it can take longer. (law.cornell.edu)
- After you apply: you’ll get a blue Medicaid card if approved. Some members are placed in managed care (MississippiCAN/CHIP) and can pick a plan (below). Renewals happen annually; watch your mail. (medicaid.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your application stalls past 45 days, call your Regional Office and the DOM Contact Center (800‑421‑2408) to ask for a status check and whether anything is missing. If still stuck, you can request an eligibility hearing. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Pregnant Women: Get Covered Immediately
Action first:
- Tell your clinic you want “Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women (PEPW).” Approved clinics (OB/GYNs, FQHCs, RHCs, MSDH staff) can grant temporary Medicaid for prenatal outpatient care while your full application is processed (up to 60 days). Then apply through Access.ms.gov right away for full coverage. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Key facts:
- Income up to 194% FPL (see dollar table above). Coverage lasts through pregnancy and 12 months postpartum. Babies born to moms on Medicaid are covered for the first year. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Real‑world example:
- You earn 2,400/month∗∗,are8weekspregnant,andhavea4‑year‑old.Forafamilyof2(you+unbornbabycounted),thelimitis∗∗2,400/month**, are 8 weeks pregnant, and have a 4‑year‑old. For a family of 2 (you + unborn baby counted), the limit is **3,508/month—you qualify now. Ask your OB/FQHC to start PEPW today so prenatal visits are covered immediately, then finish your full application online this week. (medicaid.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your clinic can’t do PEPW, call your county health department to book prenatal care and ask about Medicaid help: MSDH appointment line 855‑767‑0170. Or call DOM at 800‑421‑2408 to locate a PEPW provider. (msdh.ms.gov)
Children’s Coverage: Medicaid and CHIP (2025)
Most Mississippi kids qualify. If your income is a bit too high for Medicaid, your child likely qualifies for CHIP up to 209% FPL. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Benefits include doctor visits, vaccines, hospital care, prescriptions, dental and vision.
- CHIP cost‑sharing (2025): Mississippi’s official comparison chart shows no deductibles. Copay rules vary by family income and plan. Copays are generally 0–0–15 for common services, with an annual copay maximum of 0∗∗(≤1500** (≤150% FPL), **800 (151–175% FPL), or $950 (176–209% FPL). TrueCare lists no copays for CHIP members. See full 2025 chart below. (medicaid.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re denied for Medicaid, your child is automatically screened for CHIP. Still having trouble? Call the DOM member line 800‑421‑2408 or a free enrollment helper at Health Help Mississippi 877‑314‑3843. (medicaid.ms.gov, healthhelpms.org)
Family Planning Medicaid (ages 13–44)
If you don’t qualify for full Medicaid, you may still qualify for the Family Planning Waiver at ≤194% FPL. It covers birth control, family planning visits, STI testing/treatment related to a family planning visit, up to four covered visits per calendar year; members get a yellow Medicaid card. Must recertify yearly. (medicaid.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you lose eligibility or need broader women’s care, ask your community health center about sliding‑fee services and Title X clinics (many county health departments offer family planning). Use MSDH’s county clinic pages to schedule: 855‑767‑0170. (healthyms.com)
Breast & Cervical Cancer Medicaid (treatment coverage)
If you’re diagnosed through MSDH’s Breast & Cervical Cancer program and uninsured, you can get full Medicaid during active treatment. Call MSDH BCC Program 601‑576‑7466 or DOM 800‑421‑2408 to start the referral. (medicaid.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you didn’t get screened through MSDH, call them to see where to screen and how to be referred into coverage. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Managed Care Plans (MississippiCAN & CHIP) in 2025
As of July 1, 2025, these are the coordinated care organizations (CCOs) for MississippiCAN and CHIP. UnitedHealthcare exited the program June 30, 2025. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Plan contacts (members)
| Plan | Medicaid (MSCAN) | CHIP | 
|---|---|---|
| Magnolia Health | 866‑912‑6285 | 866‑912‑6285 | 
| Molina Healthcare | 844‑809‑8438 | 844‑809‑8438 | 
| TrueCare (Mississippi True) | 833‑230‑2050 (TTY 711) | 833‑230‑2050 (TTY 711) | 
Source: DOM announcements and plan pages. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Pick a plan that has your child’s doctor and nearest hospital in‑network. If you were auto‑assigned, you can usually change plans during open enrollment or specific windows noted in your letter. (medicaid.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you missed the switching window, you’ll need to wait for open enrollment unless there’s a qualifying reason. Call the enrollment broker Gainwell 866‑644‑6050 for options. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (rides)
Don’t skip care because of a ride. Use the right number for your coverage:
| Coverage | Who to call | Notes | 
|---|---|---|
| Fee‑for‑Service Medicaid | 866‑331‑6004 (schedule) • 866‑334‑3794 (Where’s My Ride) | Broker: Modivcare. Call ≥3 business days ahead unless urgent. (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
| Magnolia (MSCAN/CHIP) | 866‑331‑6004 (rides) | See your plan card if different. (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
| Molina (MSCAN/CHIP) | 855‑391‑2355 | Transportation vendor listed by Molina. (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
| TrueCare (MSCAN/CHIP) | 833‑230‑2050 | Ask member services for transportation. (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
Tips:
- Be ready 15 minutes before pickup; call the “Where’s My Ride” line if late. Keep your confirmation number. (modivcare.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- File a complaint with Modivcare 866‑381‑4853 or your plan’s member services. Document dates/times. (modivcare.com)
CHIP Cost‑Sharing (2025): What you’ll pay
From the state’s official 2025 CHIP Comparison Chart. Amounts apply per plan rules. (medicaid.ms.gov)
| Income Band | Annual Copay Max | Office Visit Copay | ER Copay | Prescriptions | 
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ≤150% FPL (MSCHP01) | $0 | $0 | $0 | Generics/brands 100% covered (PA may apply) | 
| 151–175% FPL (MSCHP02) | $800 | $5 | $15 | 100% (PA may apply) | 
| 176–209% FPL (MSCHP03) | $950 | $5 | $15 | 100% (PA may apply) | 
| TrueCare CHIP (all) | Typically no copays listed in 2025 chart | — | — | — | 
Always check your plan’s member handbook for exact copays and any updates. (medicaid.ms.gov)
WIC: Extra Food Money and Support (2025)
- Monthly fruit/vegetable benefit (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025): children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52. Benefits load to your eWIC card each month. (fns.usda.gov)
- Who to contact: Mississippi WIC 800‑545‑6747 or 601‑991‑6000; county clinics statewide via 855‑767‑0170. (msdh.ms.gov)
- What to bring: proof of income, residency, ID (list here): About WIC and How to Apply. (msdh.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a clinic is closed (e.g., storm damage), MSDH lists nearby alternate sites and Coastal Family Health Centers that handle WIC appointments. Call the numbers above to reroute quickly. (msdh.ms.gov)
Mental Health, Substance Use, and Postpartum Support
- 24/7 help: DMH Helpline 877‑210‑8513; Suicide & Crisis 988 (call/text/chat). Mobile Crisis teams operate statewide. (dmh.ms.gov)
- If your teen needs help: DMH Children’s Services and local MAP Teams coordinate care to prevent unnecessary hospitalization. Start via the Helpline. (dmh.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you can’t get seen fast, ask for a Mobile Crisis Response Team in your county through the Helpline; they can come to you. (dmh.ms.gov)
Immigrant Families and Emergency Medicaid
You can apply for your eligible children without affecting another family member’s immigration case. If someone is not eligible due to immigration status, they might still qualify for Emergency Medicaid for true emergencies (including labor and delivery). No SSN or status is required for Emergency Medicaid. (medicaid.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask the hospital billing office to help file an Emergency Medicaid application for the date of the emergency, and call the Regional Office for follow‑up. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Tribal Citizens
Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians operates the Choctaw Health Center and related programs; contact tribal services for assistance and referrals. Main line 601‑650‑1778; 24/7 family crisis line 601‑663‑7851. (choctaw.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you need state Medicaid too, apply at Access.ms.gov and list your tribal coverage on the application so providers bill correctly. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Where to go in person (Medicaid & Public Health)
- Find your Medicaid Regional Office (addresses + phones for all 30): Office Locations. Examples below. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- County Health Departments (prenatal, vaccines, WIC, family planning): appointment line 855‑767‑0170; clinic lists by region (sample pages shown): Southwest, Southeast, and Coastal. (msdh.ms.gov, healthyms.com)
Sample Regional Medicaid Offices (call first)
| Office | Counties Served | Phone | 
|---|---|---|
| Hinds County (Clinton) | Hinds | 601‑978‑2399 | 
| Gulfport | Harrison | 228‑863‑3328 | 
| Hattiesburg | Forrest, Lamar, Perry | 601‑264‑5386 | 
| Jackson (Central Office) | — | 800‑421‑2408 | 
| Tupelo | Itawamba, Lee | 662‑844‑5304 | 
| Vicksburg | Claiborne, Issaquena, Sharkey, Warren | 601‑638‑6137 | 
Full statewide list here: Office Locations. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Application Checklist (print and use)
- Photo ID and SSNs (for everyone applying).
- Birthdates for all applying household members.
- Last 30 days of income for everyone working (pay stubs, letter from employer, or other proof).
- Any current health insurance cards/policy numbers, and details on any job‑based offer.
- For pregnancy: a note from your provider confirming pregnancy can help, but don’t wait—ask for PEPW at your first prenatal visit. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to apply until after delivery. Apply as soon as you know you’re pregnant; ask for PEPW so prenatal care starts right away. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Submitting without proof of income. Upload recent pay stubs or a signed employer letter; missing documents delay decisions. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Not checking managed‑care plan networks. Make sure your kid’s doctor and closest hospital are in your plan before your first appointment. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Skipping rides you’re entitled to. Book transportation ≥3 business days in advance; use the right number for your plan. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Missing the 30‑day appeal window. If denied or cut off, request a hearing within 30 days; to keep current coverage during appeal, act within 15 days. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Real‑World Examples (2025)
- “My monthly income is 3,200∗∗andI’m10weekspregnant.”Withafamilysizeof2(you+unborn),you’reunder∗∗3,200** and I’m 10 weeks pregnant.” With a family size of 2 (you + unborn), you’re under **3,508/month—qualify for Pregnancy Medicaid right now. Ask your clinic to start PEPW today. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- “I make 4,500/month∗∗withtwokids(familyof3).”KidslikelyqualifyforCHIP(limit∗∗4,500/month** with two kids (family of 3).” Kids likely qualify for CHIP (limit **4,753/month); expect small copays like 5∗∗officevisitsand∗∗5** office visits and **15 ER (depending on plan band). (medicaid.ms.gov)
- “I’m a single mom with a 17‑year‑old; my income is 1,800/month∗∗.”Theparent/caretakerlimitforafamilyof2is∗∗1,800/month**.” The parent/caretaker limit for a family of 2 is **394/month—you likely won’t qualify as the adult. Check HealthCare.gov for subsidized plans; most Mississippi enrollees receive significant premium help, and cost‑sharing reductions apply up to 250% FPL for Silver plans. Call 800‑318‑2596 for free assistance. (medicaid.ms.gov, kff.org)
Marketplace Plans (if you don’t qualify for Medicaid)
- Enroll at HealthCare.gov or 800‑318‑2596. Open Enrollment: Nov 1–Jan 15 (coverage starts Jan 1 or Feb 1 depending on when you enroll). Special Enrollment Periods apply after certain life events. To get in‑person help, use Find Local Help. (cms.gov)
Tip: If your income is 100–250% FPL, pick a Silver plan to get extra cost‑sharing help (lower copays/deductibles). Use KFF’s calculator to preview 2025 premiums. (kff.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your income is below poverty and you’re not pregnant and don’t have minor children at home, Mississippi hasn’t expanded Medicaid—try community health centers (sliding‑fee) and apply again if your situation changes. See resources below. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Community Clinics & Local Help
- Community Health Centers (sliding‑fee, primary care, prenatal): find one near you with HRSA’s tool: Find a Health Center. (datawarehouse.hrsa.gov)
- County Health Departments (prenatal, WIC, immunizations, family planning): appointment line 855‑767‑0170; see regional clinic lists on MSDH. (healthyms.com)
- Health Help Mississippi (free enrollment help): 877‑314‑3843, healthhelpms.org. (healthhelpms.org)
- United Way 2‑1‑1 (health & social services referrals statewide): dial 211. Listed by MSDH as a statewide resource. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Mississippi Food Network (if groceries are tight while you sort coverage): 601‑353‑7286. (msdh.ms.gov)
Diverse Communities: Targeted Tips & Resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your plan for a provider comfortable with your needs; DMH Helpline 877‑210‑8513 can locate affirming mental health services. Many CHCs offer inclusive care regardless of insurance. (dmh.ms.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: MSDH’s CYSHCN care coordination can help you navigate specialists and benefits—call 800‑844‑0898. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: You can use VA care and still apply for Medicaid/CHIP for your children if eligible (programs can work together). Contact your nearest VA medical center or call 877‑222‑VETS (general VA enrollment). Check with DOM if you need help coordinating coverage. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Apply for your kids even if you’re not eligible. For emergencies (including delivery), hospitals can assist with Emergency Medicaid. DOM explains immigrant policies and language help here. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Tribal citizens (Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians): Access care through the Choctaw Health Center and apply for state Medicaid/CHIP if needed. Main line 601‑650‑1778; 24/7 family crisis 601‑663‑7851. (choctaw.org)
- Rural moms with limited access: Book Medicaid rides 3 business days ahead; ask your plan about telehealth options; use county health departments and FQHCs for care close to home. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Single fathers: The same income rules apply for kids, pregnancy Medicaid for partners, and caretaker coverage. Apply together as a household. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Language access: DOM offers free interpreter services; it will not delay your application. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Tables You Can Scan Fast
Table A — Which program to try + how to apply
| Program | Who qualifies (2025) | How to apply | Key link/phone | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Pregnancy Medicaid | Income ≤194% FPL; 12 months postpartum | Apply at Access.ms.gov; ask clinic for PEPW | 800‑421‑2408; PEPW overview (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
| Children’s Medicaid | Infant 0–1 ≤194% FPL; Ages 1–5 ≤143%; 6–18 ≤133% | Access.ms.gov | 800‑421‑2408; Income chart (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
| CHIP | Kids up to 19; ≤209% FPL; uninsured | Access.ms.gov | 800‑421‑2408; Income chart (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
| Family Planning Waiver | Ages 13–44; ≤194% FPL; limited benefits | Access.ms.gov (Family Planning app) | Family Planning (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
| Breast & Cervical Cancer Medicaid | Screened by MSDH program; need treatment; uninsured | Referred via MSDH | 601‑576‑7466; BCC Program (medicaid.ms.gov) | 
Table B — Managed Care Plans (MississippiCAN & CHIP)
| Plan | Member Services | Pharmacy help (DOM) | 
|---|---|---|
| Magnolia Health | 866‑912‑6285 | Gainwell Pharmacy Help Desk 833‑660‑2402 | 
| Molina Healthcare | 844‑809‑8438 | Gainwell Pharmacy Help Desk 833‑660‑2402 | 
| TrueCare | 833‑230‑2050 (TTY 711) | Gainwell Pharmacy Help Desk 833‑660‑2402 | 
Sources: DOM Managed Care pages and Members page. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Table C — CHIP 2025 copays & annual maximums
| Income band | Annual copay max | Office visit | ER | Rx | 
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ≤150% FPL | $0 | $0 | $0 | Covered (PA applies) | 
| 151–175% FPL | $800 | $5 | $15 | Covered | 
| 176–209% FPL | $950 | $5 | $15 | Covered | 
| TrueCare CHIP | No copays listed | — | — | — | 
Official 2025 chart (revised 06/26/2025). (medicaid.ms.gov)
Table D — Rides to care (by coverage)
| Coverage | Phone | 
|---|---|
| FFS Medicaid (Modivcare) | 866‑331‑6004 (schedule), 866‑334‑3794 (Where’s My Ride), 866‑381‑4853 (complaints) | 
| Magnolia | 866‑331‑6004 | 
| Molina | 855‑391‑2355 | 
| TrueCare | Call 833‑230‑2050 | 
Sources: DOM transportation page + Modivcare. (medicaid.ms.gov, modivcare.com)
Table E — WIC 2025 fruit/vegetable amounts + contacts
| Participant | Monthly amount | 
|---|---|
| Child | $26 | 
| Pregnant/Postpartum | $47 | 
| Breastfeeding (fully/mostly) | $52 | 
Contacts: WIC 800‑545‑6747 or 601‑991‑6000. Source: USDA FNS 2025 memo and MSDH WIC page. (fns.usda.gov, msdh.ms.gov)
If You’re Denied or Cut Off
- Read the notice carefully—what’s missing? You have 30 days to request a hearing (and 15 days to keep benefits during the appeal if you already have them). Call your Regional Office or 800‑421‑2408 and say “I’m requesting an eligibility hearing.” (medicaid.ms.gov)
- While you wait, use community clinics (sliding‑fee) and county health departments; ask about sample meds and payment plans.
- If your income drops, reapply. If you become pregnant, ask for PEPW immediately with your provider. (medicaid.ms.gov)
Reality Checks: Timelines, Backlogs, and What’s Normal
- Processing is supposed to be within 45 days (90 disability). If documents are missing or there’s a system delay, it can take longer—call weekly for status. (law.cornell.edu)
- Managed‑care plan changes happen only during specific windows—watch your mail for special letters (like the 2025 change when UnitedHealthcare left the program). (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Clinics fill fast in some counties. Book prenatal and well‑child visits early, and use ride services to avoid no‑shows.
Regional Resources & Support Orgs (statewide picks)
- United Way 2‑1‑1 (statewide referral line): dial 211. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Mississippi Food Network (food while you sort coverage): 601‑353‑7286. (msdh.ms.gov)
- NAMI Mississippi (mental health support groups): 601‑899‑9058. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Domestic violence shelters (statewide listings via MS Coalition Against Domestic Violence): see hotline list on partner page; many regions include Catholic Charities shelters, Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence, and others. If in danger, call 911. (kidsmentalhealthfoundation.org)
- MAMA — Mississippi Access to Maternal Assistance: one‑stop statewide resource directory (app/website) for prenatal care, baby supplies, shelters, legal aid, and more: Mama.ms.gov. (mama.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Email MAMA support (MAMA@ago.ms.gov) or call DOM and MSDH lines above to get a human on the phone who can route you locally. (mama.ms.gov)
FAQs (Mississippi‑specific, 2025)
- How fast can I get pregnancy coverage?
- If your provider participates, Presumptive Eligibility can start same‑day for prenatal visits while your regular application is processed (up to 60 days). Then your full pregnancy Medicaid continues through pregnancy and 12 months postpartum. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- I have a job—can my kids still qualify?
- Yes. Children qualify at higher incomes (up to 209% FPL in CHIP). Apply, list your income; the system checks Medicaid first, then CHIP. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Do I pay copays for CHIP?
- No deductibles. Copays are small (often 0–0–5 for office visits and 15∗∗forER)withanannualcap(∗∗15** for ER) with an annual cap (**0 / 800/800 / 950 depending on income band). TrueCare lists no copays in 2025. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Can I get a ride to the doctor?
- Yes. Call Modivcare 866‑331‑6004 (FFS/Magnolia) or your plan’s ride line (Molina 855‑391‑2355, TrueCare via 833‑230‑2050). Book ≥3 business days ahead. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- What ID card will I get?
- Approved members get a blue Medicaid card; Family Planning Waiver members get a yellow card. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- How long will my application take?
- By federal rule, ≤45 days (≤90 if disability). Missing documents or emergencies can slow things—answer letters quickly and call for status. (law.cornell.edu)
- I’m not a U.S. citizen. Can my kids apply?
- Yes. Apply for eligible children. For emergencies (including labor and delivery), Emergency Medicaid may cover the date of the emergency even if you’re not otherwise eligible. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Can I switch Medicaid plans?
- Only during specific windows (e.g., open enrollment or a special plan‑change period). Watch your mail or call the enrollment broker 866‑644‑6050. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Where can I get in‑person help?
- Visit a Medicaid Regional Office or call Health Help Mississippi 877‑314‑3843 for free assistance. (medicaid.ms.gov, healthhelpms.org)
- I was denied. What now?
- Appeal within 30 days (and within 15 days to keep current coverage during the appeal). Ask for a local or state hearing: 800‑421‑2408. (medicaid.ms.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Mississippi Division of Medicaid, Mississippi State Department of Health, USDA FNS, DMH, CMS/HealthCare.gov, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards focused on accuracy, primary sources, and practical steps.
- Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
- We used the state’s March 1, 2025 income limits; plan changes effective July 1, 2025; and federal WIC amounts for FY 2025. If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org—we investigate corrections within 48 hours. (medicaid.ms.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Disclaimer
- Program details change. Always confirm amounts, deadlines, and rules with the agency or plan linked above.
- Health content here is general information, not medical or legal advice.
- To protect your privacy, never post SSNs or case details publicly—use official portals or phone numbers provided.
Sources (selected)
- Mississippi Division of Medicaid: income limits (effective Mar 1, 2025), who qualifies, how to apply, member services, managed care updates, transportation. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women (PEPW) program. (medicaid.ms.gov)
- 2025 CHIP Comparison Chart (copays/caps). (medicaid.ms.gov)
- CMS/HealthCare.gov: 2025 Open Enrollment fact sheet & local help. (cms.gov)
- USDA FNS: WIC FY 2025 cash‑value benefit amounts. (fns.usda.gov)
- MSDH: WIC program contacts; county health department locations; CYSHCN program. (msdh.ms.gov, healthyms.com, msdh.ms.gov)
- Mississippi Department of Mental Health: Helpline, crisis, children’s services. (dmh.ms.gov)
- Federal timeline rule: 42 CFR §435.912. (law.cornell.edu)
- MAMA (Mississippi Access to Maternal Assistance). (mama.ms.gov)
This is your Mississippi hub for Medicaid, CHIP, and more. If you’re overwhelmed or stuck, call DOM at 800‑421‑2408, ask your clinic about PEPW (if pregnant), and use the ride numbers above so you can keep appointments.
🏛️More Mississippi Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Mississippi
- 📋 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
