Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Nebraska
Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Nebraska: Medicaid, CHIP & More [2025]
Last updated: September 2025
This is your no‑fluff, step‑by‑step Nebraska guide to getting healthcare for yourself and your kids. All links below go to official state or federal sources, or to established nonprofits with statewide reach. When you see bold in this guide, it’s for the numbers and phone numbers you’re most likely scanning for.
Quick help (read this first)
- Apply for Nebraska Medicaid (including kids’ coverage) online at the iServe Nebraska portal or by phone at (855) 632‑7633 (Omaha (402) 595‑1178; Lincoln (402) 473‑7000). Live help 8 a.m.–5 p.m. CT, Mon–Fri. Apply at iServe Nebraska (official). (dhhs.ne.gov)
- If you’re pregnant, you may qualify up to 194% FPL with 12 months postpartum Medicaid coverage. If you can’t get Medicaid, the state’s “599 CHIP” covers prenatal care up to 197% FPL. Pregnancy coverage and postpartum policy (official). 599 CHIP one‑pager (official). (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Kids in Nebraska get Medicaid/CHIP up to 213% FPL with at least 12 months of continuous coverage. CMS eligibility table (federal) and Nebraska eligibility page. (medicaid.gov, dhhs.ne.gov)
- Need a clinic now? Call your closest community health center (FQHC). Examples: OneWorld (Omaha) (402) 734‑4110, Bluestem Health (Lincoln) (402) 476‑1455, Charles Drew (Omaha) (402) 451‑3553. See statewide list: Find a Health Center – HCAN. (hcanebraska.org)
- Non‑emergency medical rides (Medicaid): Molina/MTM (888) 889‑0421 (TTY 711); Nebraska Total Care/MTM (844) 385‑2192 (TTY 711); UnitedHealthcare/Modivcare (833) 583‑5683 (TTY 833‑587‑6527). Heritage Health NEMT contacts. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Mental health crisis: Call or text 988 (24/7). Postpartum mental health help: 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262). (dhhs.ne.gov, hrsa.gov)
What we checked (so you don’t have to)
We reviewed the top Nebraska search results for “Nebraska Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers” and related terms. Most lacked 2025 FPL dollar amounts, didn’t include Nebraska’s new Prenatal Plus program, didn’t reflect that Molina now replaces Healthy Blue as an MCO, and missed the 2024 dental policy changes (adult dental cap removal). This guide fills those gaps with verified 2025 numbers, new program changes, and direct, working contacts. (medicaid.gov, dhhs.ne.gov)
Nebraska income limits you can use today (2025)
All MAGI groups use the 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines (48 states). We show monthly income limits most single moms ask about. Household size means you plus your dependents. For pregnancy Medicaid, count the unborn(s) in household size. FPL figures: ASPE/HHS 2025 guidelines. (aspe.hhs.gov)
Quick reference table: Monthly income limits (2025)
Note: These are approximate monthly conversions of the official annual FPL thresholds. Always apply—some families qualify even if you’re slightly over due to the 5% disregard and deductions.
| Group (Percent FPL) | HH of 1 | HH of 2 | HH of 3 | HH of 4 | HH of 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adults 19–64 (expansion, 138% FPL) | $1,800 | $2,432 | $3,065 | $3,697 | $4,330 |
| Pregnant (Medicaid, 194% FPL) | $2,530 | $3,419 | $4,308 | $5,198 | $6,087 |
| Pregnant (599 CHIP, 197% FPL) | $2,569 | $3,472 | $4,375 | $5,278 | $6,181 |
| Children (Medicaid/CHIP, 213% FPL) | $2,778 | $3,754 | $4,730 | $5,707 | $6,683 |
| Parents/Caretaker Relatives (58% FPL) | $756 | $1,022 | $1,288 | $1,554 | $1,820 |
Sources: CMS eligibility thresholds (NE: kids 213%, pregnant 194%, parents 58%, adults to 138%); 2025 FPL; Nebraska 599 CHIP rule at 197% FPL. (medicaid.gov, aspe.hhs.gov, casetext.com)
Start here: How to apply fast
- Apply online at iServe Nebraska. If you’re on a phone, it works fine. Keep your case number handy. iServe Nebraska portal. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Prefer phone? Call (855) 632‑7633 (Omaha (402) 595‑1178; Lincoln (402) 473‑7000). Ask for a mailed paper application if needed. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- In‑person help: Find your local DHHS office from the ACCESSNebraska page. Many offices have free kiosks and phones for applications. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Processing time: Expect up to 45 days for most determinations (federal standard). If disability determination is involved, up to 90 days. (law.cornell.edu)
- If your address/phone changes, update DHHS right away online or by phone (same numbers as above). Missed mail is a common reason for losing coverage. (dhhs.ne.gov)
Application checklist (save this)
- Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or other).
- Proof of Nebraska address (lease, utility bill, or mail).
- Social Security numbers for you/kids if you have them (not required for 599 CHIP prenatal).
- Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, employer letter). If self‑employed, recent tax return or ledger.
- Pregnancy verification (clinic letter or provider note) if applying as pregnant.
- Immigration document if applicable (lawful residents can qualify; 599 CHIP prenatal does not require mom’s citizenship/immigration status). (casetext.com)
Nebraska Medicaid for single mothers (ages 19–64)
Most single moms qualify either under adult expansion (up to 138% FPL) or as pregnant. Coverage includes doctor visits, hospitalization, prescriptions, behavioral health, maternity/newborn care, lab, and more. Adults enroll in a Heritage Health managed care plan: Molina, Nebraska Total Care, or UnitedHealthcare. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Apply: Online at iServe or by phone (855) 632‑7633 (Omaha (402) 595‑1178; Lincoln (402) 473‑7000). (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Pick your plan: Use the Heritage Health Enrollment Center (888) 255‑2605, Mon–Fri 7 a.m.–7 p.m. CT. You can change plans during your first 90 days or during open enrollment Nov 1–Dec 15 each year (or “for cause”). Change options. (neheritagehealth.com)
- Plan contacts (Member Services):
- Molina Healthcare of Nebraska: (844) 782‑2018 (TTY 711). Contact Molina NE. (molinahealthcare.com)
- Nebraska Total Care: (844) 385‑2192 (TTY 711). Contact NTC. (nebraskatotalcare.com)
- UnitedHealthcare Community Plan: (800) 641‑1902 (TTY 711). UHC NE Medicaid. (uhc.com)
Costs and copays
- Pregnant women and children under 19 pay no Medicaid copays. Adults may have small copays: e.g., 2∗∗forgenericdrugs,∗∗2** for generic drugs, **3 for brand drugs, $15 inpatient hospital admission. Providers can’t refuse to see you if you can’t pay at the visit, but you still owe the copay. Copayment list and exemptions. (dhhs.ne.gov)
Transportation (rides to covered medical care)
- Molina (MTM): (888) 889‑0421 (TTY 711)
- Nebraska Total Care (MTM): (844) 385‑2192 (TTY 711)
- UnitedHealthcare (Modivcare): (833) 583‑5683 (TTY 833‑587‑6527)
Heritage Health NEMT details. (dhhs.ne.gov)
Timelines to expect
- Decision: Up to 45 days for most cases; you’ll get a notice by mail/portal. (law.cornell.edu)
- Card & plan: Your MCO card usually arrives within 1–2 weeks after approval.
- PCP appointment: Try to schedule within 30 days of enrollment; ask your plan for “new member” appointment help.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you’re over income for adult Medicaid, check Marketplace plans with subsidies. Losing Medicaid qualifies you for a 60‑day special enrollment period via HealthCare.gov. If you’re close to the limit, apply anyway—MAGI rules include a 5% disregard that can push you under. (healthcare.gov)
Pregnant? Your options (Medicaid, Prenatal Plus, and 599 CHIP)
Start with Medicaid for pregnant women (up to 194% FPL). If approved for Medicaid at any point in pregnancy, you get 12 months of postpartum coverage starting January 1, 2024. If you don’t qualify for Medicaid, 599 CHIP can cover prenatal care up to 197% FPL, but 599 CHIP does not include postpartum care. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Apply the same way (iServe or phone). Many clinics can help you apply on the spot.
- Presumptive Eligibility (PE) exists for prenatal Medicaid so you can start care quickly. Note: there is no presumptive eligibility for 599 CHIP. (public-dhhs.ne.gov)
- New in 2025: Nebraska’s Medicaid “Prenatal Plus Program” gives extra supports (nutrition counseling, psychosocial support, breastfeeding help, targeted case management) for at‑risk pregnant members. Ask your provider if you can enroll. Prenatal Plus. (dhhs.ne.gov)
Real‑world example
- Example: You’re pregnant with one child and have two kids already. Your household size is 4 (you + 2 kids + unborn). If your monthly income is 5,100∗∗,you’reunderthepregnant‑Medicaidlimitofabout∗∗5,100**, you’re under the pregnant‑Medicaid limit of about **5,198 for a family of 4 in 2025—so apply for Medicaid, not 599 CHIP. If you’re just over, 599 CHIP may still cover your prenatal care (up to ~$5,278 for HH4), but you won’t get Medicaid’s 12‑month postpartum.
What 599 CHIP is (and isn’t)
- 599 CHIP covers the unborn child’s prenatal care and the delivery. It does not cover postpartum care for mom or unrelated medical issues, and there’s no retroactive eligibility. It’s for those otherwise ineligible for Medicaid (e.g., over 194% FPL or certain immigration statuses). Continuous eligibility rules apply during pregnancy; the newborn is evaluated for Medicaid after birth. [State 599 CHIP one‑pager] (eligibility and process). [Regulatory limit 197% FPL]. (dhhs.ne.gov, casetext.com)
What changed for dental in 2024–2025 (this helps in pregnancy too)
- Nebraska removed the old $750 annual cap on adult dental in Medicaid. Dental is now provided through your MCO (Molina, Nebraska Total Care, or UnitedHealthcare). This improves access to needed work during pregnancy and postpartum. Medicaid Dental Care changes. (dhhs.ne.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you’re denied Medicaid and 599 CHIP, use a community health center on a sliding fee scale and ask for payment plans. Find care via Health Center Association of Nebraska – Find a Health Center. For birth control, STI testing, and pregnancy testing on a sliding scale, use Nebraska’s Title X network (see “Family Planning” below). (hcanebraska.org)
Coverage for kids (Medicaid/CHIP up to 213% FPL)
- Children in Nebraska qualify up to 213% FPL. Once enrolled, kids get at least 12 months continuous eligibility. Apply with your application—kids can be approved even if you aren’t. CMS table; NE eligibility updates, Nebraska eligibility. (medicaid.gov, dhhs.ne.gov)
- No copays for children (under 19). Copay exemptions. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- EPSDT means full preventive and medically necessary services for kids and teens (dental, vision, therapy, screenings). Ask your plan for regular well‑child visits and transportation if needed. (See NEMT above.)
Table: Kids’ monthly income limits (213% FPL, 2025)
| HH Size | Monthly income (approx) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,778 |
| 2 | $3,754 |
| 3 | $4,730 |
| 4 | $5,707 |
| 5 | $6,683 |
Source: 2025 FPL + CMS eligibility percent for NE. (aspe.hhs.gov, medicaid.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you’re over income, ask the plan or DHHS about documentation and 5% disregard. If still over, check Marketplace plans with cost‑sharing reductions for children. If you lose Medicaid/CHIP, you get 60 days to pick a Marketplace plan. (healthcare.gov)
Family planning and reproductive health (Title X)
For confidential, low‑cost or free birth control, STI testing/treatment, Pap tests, and related care (for teens and adults), use Nebraska’s Title X network (funded by HHS and administered in‑state by Nebraska Family Planning, now the Reproductive Health Collaborative).
- Find a Title X provider: In Control Nebraska – provider finder (statewide locator). (incontrolnebraska.com)
- Program details: HHS Office of Population Affairs lists Nebraska’s Title X grantee and network reach. OPA – Family Planning Council of Nebraska. (opa.hhs.gov)
- Some Planned Parenthood sites in Lincoln/Omaha provide Title X sliding‑fee services via Nebraska Family Planning. Check hours/locations before traveling. (plannedparenthood.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Use a community health center with sliding fees: HCAN – Find a Health Center. If you need emergency contraception and cost is a barrier, ask a Title X clinic about no‑ or low‑cost options. (hcanebraska.org)
WIC in Nebraska (nutrition for pregnant/postpartum moms and kids under 5)
- New income guidelines took effect May 1, 2025. Examples (monthly, gross): HH1 2,413∗∗;HH2∗∗2,413**; HH2 **3,261; HH3 4,109∗∗;HH4∗∗4,109**; HH4 **4,957; HH5 $5,805. Nebraska WIC – About & Income Chart. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- WIC serves every county with 13 agencies and ~97 sites. Call (800) 942‑1171 or use the WIC map to find a clinic and make an appointment. WIC map & info. (dhhs.ne.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your clinic about “adjunct eligibility” (if you or a child has Medicaid or SNAP, you often qualify for WIC automatically). If you’re slightly over, still call—some families qualify based on current circumstances. (dhhs.ne.gov)
Women’s cancer screening and treatment help (Every Woman Matters)
- EWM pays for breast and cervical screening (and some diagnostics). Screening ages vary by service; many screenings target 21–64; diagnostic pathways can start as young as 18 for breast issues. Income generally up to 250% FPL. Enroll by phone at (800) 532‑2227 or complete the online Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire. EWM program. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- If you’re diagnosed through EWM and uninsured, you may qualify for Medicaid treatment under the state’s Women’s Cancer Program. EWM nurses help with that referral. EWM screening & diagnostic pages, EWM Diagnostic Program. (dhhs.ne.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you’re not eligible, ask your local FQHC for low‑cost mammograms/Pap (some offer special grant days). Also check Susan G. Komen’s helpline at (877) 465‑6636 for local assistance. (dhhs.ne.gov)
Dental, vision, interpreter services and other add‑ons you might miss
- Dental: As of Jan 1, 2024, adult dental dollar caps were removed; coverage runs through your MCO. Ask your plan about covered services and the incremental denture payment policy that helps providers start care sooner. Dental policy update. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Vision: Included with Heritage Health plans. Check your MCO handbook.
- Language access: All three MCOs offer free interpreters (including ASL). Call your plan to request an interpreter for appointments. Examples: Molina (844) 782‑2018, NTC (844) 385‑2192, UHC (800) 641‑1902. (molinahealthcare.com, nebraskatotalcare.com, uhc.com)
- Tobacco quit help: Nebraska Tobacco Quitline 1‑800‑QUIT‑NOW with free coaching and nicotine replacement for eligible callers. Text support available. Tobacco Free Nebraska. (dhhs.ne.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If a provider says “we don’t have an interpreter,” call your plan from the office—plans can conference in language services. If you get billed after a covered dental service, appeal with your plan and request an explanation of benefits first.
Who is managing your Medicaid? (Nebraska’s three plans in 2025)
Nebraska’s Heritage Health program moved to three MCOs: Molina, Nebraska Total Care, and UnitedHealthcare (Healthy Blue is no longer an MCO). See DHHS for plan documents and public dashboard. (dhhs.ne.gov)
| Plan | Member services | Nurse line | Transportation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Molina Healthcare of Nebraska | (844) 782‑2018 (TTY 711) | (844) 782‑2721 | MTM (888) 889‑0421 |
| Nebraska Total Care | (844) 385‑2192 (TTY 711) | same line, 24/7 nurse advice | MTM (844) 385‑2192 |
| UnitedHealthcare Community Plan | (800) 641‑1902 (TTY 711) | same line | Modivcare (833) 583‑5683, TTY (833) 587‑6527 |
Sources: DHHS Heritage Health pages and each plan’s contact pages. (dhhs.ne.gov, molinahealthcare.com, nebraskatotalcare.com, uhc.com)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sending an incomplete application. Upload or submit all pay stubs and the pregnancy letter if pregnant.
- Ignoring mail from DHHS or your plan. If you moved, update your contact info immediately to avoid losing coverage. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Not adding the unborn to household size when applying as pregnant.
- Missing your 90‑day window to switch plans or the Nov 1–Dec 15 open enrollment. (neheritagehealth.com)
- Skipping well‑child visits because you think there’s a copay. Kids under 19 have no copays. (dhhs.ne.gov)
Diverse communities: tailored tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Title X clinics and community health centers offer inclusive, confidential care (birth control, STI testing, Pap tests) regardless of ability to pay. Find providers via In Control Nebraska or HCAN – Find a Health Center. (incontrolnebraska.com, hcanebraska.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask about Medicaid waivers and case management through your MCO. Start with Medicaid & Long‑Term Care. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Pair Medicaid with VA care if eligible; use your MCO’s care management to coordinate referrals.
- Immigrant/refugee moms: If you can’t get Medicaid due to status, apply for 599 CHIP for prenatal care (no mom immigration requirement). For non‑emergency conditions, use FQHCs on a sliding fee scale; for emergencies, ER care is covered regardless of status and may be eligible for emergency Medicaid. 599 CHIP one‑pager. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Tribal citizens: No copays in Medicaid/CHIP when using IHS/Tribal/Urban Indian providers; certain resources don’t count against eligibility. DHHS Tribal Health Members. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Rural moms (limited providers/long drives): Use your MCO’s NEMT early (book rides a few days ahead). Many FQHCs offer telehealth and mobile clinics. HCAN health centers map. (hcanebraska.org)
- Single fathers: These programs cover eligible single fathers and caregivers too. If the kids live with you, apply for their coverage.
- Language access: All Medicaid plans provide free interpreters. Request one when booking. See plan contacts above. (nebraskatotalcare.com, molinahealthcare.com, uhc.com)
Local organizations you can call this week
- OneWorld Community Health Centers (Omaha metro): (402) 734‑4110 – primary care, OB, pediatrics, dental, behavioral health. OneWorld via HCAN list. (hcanebraska.org)
- Charles Drew Health Center (North Omaha): (402) 451‑3553 – medical, dental, behavioral health. HCAN list. (hcanebraska.org)
- Bluestem Health (Lincoln): (402) 476‑1455. HCAN list. (hcanebraska.org)
- Heartland Health Center (Grand Island): (308) 382‑4297. HCAN list. (hcanebraska.org)
- Midtown Health Center (Norfolk): (402) 371‑8000. HCAN list. (hcanebraska.org)
- Good Neighbor Community Health Center (Columbus): (402) 562‑7500. HCAN list. (hcanebraska.org)
- Siouxland CHC (South Sioux City): (402) 412‑7142. HCAN list. (hcanebraska.org)
- Nebraska Family Helpline (parenting/behavioral health support): (888) 866‑8660 (24/7). State hotlines. (dhhs.ne.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Apply for Medicaid/CHIP: (855) 632‑7633 or iServe. Omaha (402) 595‑1178; Lincoln (402) 473‑7000. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Pregnant Medicaid: up to 194% FPL; postpartum coverage 12 months. Maternal Health – DHHS. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- 599 CHIP prenatal if not Medicaid‑eligible: up to 197% FPL. 599 CHIP one‑pager. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Kids’ coverage: up to 213% FPL with 12 months continuous eligibility. CMS/NE. (medicaid.gov)
- WIC: HH4 monthly income up to $4,957 (as of May 1, 2025). (800) 942‑1171. Nebraska WIC. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Dental cap removed for adults (Medicaid): check your plan. Dental update. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Non‑emergency rides: Molina/MTM (888) 889‑0421; NTC/MTM (844) 385‑2192; UHC/Modivcare (833) 583‑5683. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Crisis lines: 988; Maternal mental health 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA; Tobacco Quitline 1‑800‑QUIT‑NOW. (dhhs.ne.gov, hrsa.gov)
Tables you can screenshot
Table A — Where to apply and get help
| Task | Best route | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Apply for Medicaid/CHIP | iServe portal or phone | iServe Nebraska; (855) 632‑7633; Omaha (402) 595‑1178; Lincoln (402) 473‑7000 (dhhs.ne.gov) |
| Pick or change your health plan | Heritage Health Enrollment Center | (888) 255‑2605; Open Enrollment: Nov 1–Dec 15 (neheritagehealth.com) |
| Find a doctor/clinic now | Community health center near you | HCAN – Find a Health Center (hcanebraska.org) |
| WIC appointment | Call your local WIC | (800) 942‑1171; About WIC & income chart (dhhs.ne.gov) |
| Cancer screening (EWM) | Enroll by phone/online HLQ | (800) 532‑2227; EWM program (dhhs.ne.gov) |
Table B — 2025 monthly income cutoffs (selected groups)
| Group | % FPL | HH2 | HH3 | HH4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adults 19–64 (expansion) | 138% | $2,432 | $3,065 | $3,697 |
| Pregnant – Medicaid | 194% | $3,419 | $4,308 | $5,198 |
| Pregnant – 599 CHIP | 197% | $3,472 | $4,375 | $5,278 |
| Children (Medicaid/CHIP) | 213% | $3,754 | $4,730 | $5,707 |
Sources: CMS eligibility table; 2025 HHS poverty guidelines; NE 599 CHIP. (medicaid.gov, aspe.hhs.gov, casetext.com)
Table C — Your Medicaid health plan’s key numbers
| Plan | Member services | Nurse line | Transportation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Molina | (844) 782‑2018 (TTY 711) | (844) 782‑2721 | (888) 889‑0421 |
| Nebraska Total Care | (844) 385‑2192 (TTY 711) | 24/7 via same line | (844) 385‑2192 |
| UnitedHealthcare | (800) 641‑1902 (TTY 711) | 24/7 via same line | (833) 583‑5683, TTY (833) 587‑6527 |
Sources: plan sites and DHHS Heritage Health resources. (molinahealthcare.com, nebraskatotalcare.com, uhc.com, dhhs.ne.gov)
Table D — Common copays for adults (pregnant women and kids are exempt)
| Service | Copay |
|---|---|
| Generic Rx (not birth control) | $2 |
| Brand Rx (not birth control) | $3 |
| Outpatient hospital visit | $3 |
| Inpatient admission | $15 |
Full list and exemptions: DHHS copay page. (dhhs.ne.gov)
Table E — WIC monthly income (effective May 1, 2025)
| HH Size | Monthly |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,413 |
| 2 | $3,261 |
| 3 | $4,109 |
| 4 | $4,957 |
| 5 | $5,805 |
Source: Nebraska WIC. (dhhs.ne.gov)
“What happens after I apply?” — realistic timeline
- Week 0–1: Application submitted; check your iServe messages and mail. If documents are missing, upload fast.
- Up to day 45: Determination (most MAGI cases). You’ll get a notice and plan information if approved. (law.cornell.edu)
- Week 3–6: MCO ID card arrives; call your plan if you need a primary care provider (PCP) or OB right away.
- Any time during pregnancy: Ask your provider about Prenatal Plus if you have risk factors (stress, housing/food issues, prior preterm birth). (dhhs.ne.gov)
FAQs (Nebraska‑specific, quick answers)
- Do I really get 12 months postpartum Medicaid in Nebraska?
Yes—effective Jan 1, 2024, if you had Medicaid during pregnancy. (dhhs.ne.gov) - If I’m just a little over the pregnant‑Medicaid limit, can I still get prenatal care?
Yes—apply for 599 CHIP (prenatal only) up to 197% FPL. No postpartum coverage under 599 CHIP. (dhhs.ne.gov, casetext.com) - Can I switch my Medicaid plan?
Yes—within your first 90 days or during open enrollment Nov 1–Dec 15 (or for cause). Call (888) 255‑2605. (neheritagehealth.com) - Who are the 2025 Medicaid plans?
Molina, Nebraska Total Care, and UnitedHealthcare. Healthy Blue is not a current MCO. (dhhs.ne.gov) - Are there copays for my kids’ doctor visits?
No. Children under 19 are exempt from Medicaid copays. (dhhs.ne.gov) - How fast will DHHS decide my case?
Up to 45 days (90 if disability is involved), per federal standards. (law.cornell.edu) - Is adult dental really expanded now?
Yes, the $750 annual cap was removed. Dental is through your plan. (dhhs.ne.gov) - I don’t have a car—can I get to appointments?
Yes. Use your plan’s non‑emergency medical transportation (see numbers above). (dhhs.ne.gov) - Where can I get low‑cost birth control if I don’t qualify for Medicaid?
Use Title X clinics statewide. Start here: In Control Nebraska. (incontrolnebraska.com) - What if I’m overwhelmed after birth?
Call the Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (call/text), or 988 if in crisis. (hrsa.gov, dhhs.ne.gov)
What to do if your application hits a wall (Plan B)
- Appeal and ask for help: Call Medicaid Customer Service (855) 632‑7633 and ask what’s missing. If you disagree, request an appeal. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Try a community health center while you wait: care on a sliding‑fee scale. Find a Health Center – HCAN. (hcanebraska.org)
- If you lose Medicaid: Shop Marketplace coverage with subsidies; losing Medicaid triggers a 60‑day special enrollment window. (healthcare.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS), CMS/Medicaid.gov, HHS/ASPE (poverty guidelines), HHS/OPA (Title X), and established Nebraska nonprofits (HCAN). It follows our editorial standards (source verification, cross‑checks, link testing, documented updates) and is maintained by dedicated benefits researchers—not by any government agency. Our independence policy and update cadence are described in our Editorial Policy.
- Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
- Found an error or a broken link? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll investigate within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
Program rules and dollar limits can change at any time. Always confirm details with the relevant agency or your health plan before you apply, enroll, or make care decisions. This guide is information—not legal advice or a guarantee of individual outcomes. We use only official sources, secure pages, and direct links, and we remove or replace broken links when found. For your privacy, don’t send personal case numbers or SSNs by email; use official state portals or phone lines listed above.
Citations (selected)
- Apply and contact: iServe portal and ACCESSNebraska phone lines. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- 2025 FPL guidelines: HHS/ASPE; FPL used for Medicaid/CHIP. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- Nebraska Medicaid eligibility percents (kids 213%, pregnant 194%, parents 58%, adult expansion 133% + disregard): CMS tables. (medicaid.gov)
- Postpartum coverage 12 months (effective Jan 1, 2024). (dhhs.ne.gov)
- 599 CHIP prenatal (197% FPL) details and process. (dhhs.ne.gov, casetext.com)
- Prenatal Plus Program services (2025). (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Dental policy changes (removed adult cap). (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Copayment amounts and exemptions. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- MCO lineup change (Molina now in, Healthy Blue out) and NEMT contacts. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- WIC income chart (effective May 1, 2025). (dhhs.ne.gov)
- EWM screening & diagnostic program. (dhhs.ne.gov)
- Federal timeliness standards (45/90 days). (law.cornell.edu)
- Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA). (hrsa.gov)
- HCAN health center directory. (hcanebraska.org)
If you want, tell me your household size, monthly income before taxes, pregnancy status, and county—I can pinpoint which program to apply for and the phone number for your nearest office.
Learn more:
- Medicaid and Long-Term Care
- Maternal Health Resources for Medicaid
- Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program, & Basic Health Program Eligibility Levels | Medicaid
- Medicaid Eligibility
- Find a Health Center – Health Center Association of Nebraska
- Heritage Health Resources
- Hotlines
- HHS Celebrates First Anniversary of National Maternal Mental Health Hotline; Introduces New Easy-to-Remember Number: 1-833-TLC-MAMA | HRSA
- 2025 Federal Poverty Level Standards | Medicaid
- Prenatal Plus Program
- Poverty Guidelines | ASPE
- Section 477-19-005 – 599 CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM (CHIP), 477 Neb. Admin. Code, ch. 19, § 005 | Casetext Search + Citator
- Medicaid Eligibility
- ACCESSNebraska
- 42 CFR § 435.912 – Timely determination and redetermination of eligibility. | Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (e-CFR) | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute
- Preparing to Renew Medicaid Coverage
- Medicaid Expansion in Nebraska
- Change Now – Nebraska Heritage Health
- Contact Us | Medicaid
- Contact Us | Nebraska Total Care
- Nebraska UnitedHealthcare Community Plan – Heritage Health | UnitedHealthcare Community Plan
- Medicaid Copayments
- Federal Poverty Level (FPL) – Glossary | HealthCare.gov
- 18-001.02 Presumptive Eligibility (PE)
- 599 CHIP one-pager
- Medicaid Dental Care
- Home – In Control Nebraska
- Family Planning Council of Nebraska | HHS Office of Population Affairs
- Increase in Title X Funding in Nebraska to Help Patients Access Care | Planned Parenthood North Central States
- About WIC
- Increased Access to Health Through Interactive WIC Clinic Map
- Every Woman Matters
- Every Woman Matters Screening Program
- Every Woman Matters Diagnostic Program
- I Want to Quit Tobacco
- Heritage Health Public Dashboard
- Tribal Health Members
- Governor Pillen Announces Change to Bolster Medicaid Coverage for Nebraska’s Mothers and Children
- Medicaid Contacts
🏛️More Nebraska Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Nebraska
- 📋 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
