How To Apply for NC Medicaid

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  • Review the eligibility guidelines. If you are not sure if you are eligible, we suggest you apply anyway.
  • You can apply at any time of the year.
  • Free help is available in other languages. If you need an interpreter, call your local Department of Social Services (DSS) and ask the operator.
  • If you have a disability and need communication assistance, call the NC Medicaid Contact Center 1-888-245-0179 (TTY: 711 or RelayNC.com).

 

How to Apply

Tab/Accordion Items

Apply online through our secure website, ePASS. On the application, NC Medicaid is referred to as “Medical Assistance.”

 Apply Online Through ePASS

You will need an NCID to begin your application. An NCID is a secure online user ID and password you set up to access many North Carolina government programs, including NC Medicaid. If you do not have an NCID, follow the on-screen instructions to create your account.

Need help with the online application? Watch this video, or check out this step-by-step guide.

You can also apply for Medicaid through HealthCare.gov.

Go to your local Department of Social Services (DSS).
To find yours, use this directory or call the NC Medicaid Contact Center at 1-888-245-0179.

Walk-ins are available at all local offices. You can also call to schedule an in-person or phone interview (recommended).

Bring these documents if you have them.

Want to save time? 
Download, print, and fill out an application first.

Call your local Department of Social Services (DSS) to apply over the phone.

How to find your local Department of Social Services:
Use this directory or call the NC Medicaid Contact Center at 1-888-245-0179.

  1. Download, print, and fill out an application.
  2. Additional forms may be needed in certain situations.
  3. Include copies of these documents if you have them.
  4. Don’t forget to sign your application.
  5. Mail, email, fax or bring your application to your local Department of Social Services (DSS).

How to find your local Department of Social Services:
Use this directory or call the NC Medicaid Contact Center at 1-888-245-0179.

What you need to apply

You must provide the following:

  • Full legal name and date of birth, for at least one person applying
  • Mailing address, for at least one person applying
  • Your signature on the application (written, voice or digital depending on how you apply)

Gather these documents if you have them 

Include copies of these documents with your application if you can. It may speed up the process. Not all documents may apply to you.

Type of information Examples of what you can use as proof
North Carolina residency
  • Photo ID with your address listed, or
  • Utility bill, or
  • Lease or mortgage agreement, or
  • Vehicle registration, or
  • Documentation of employment

If you do not have any documentation, check the box on your application labeled “NC Residency Declaration.”
Income

If you’re Employed: Pay stubs, employer verification or your most recent tax return.

If you’re Self-Employed: Your most recent tax return or copies of your business records. If you don’t have that, fill out this form.
Date of birth
  • Photo ID with your date of birth listed, or
  • Birth certificate
Social Security Number (SSN)
  • A copy of your social security card or proof you applied for one, or
  • Another official document containing your name and SSN, or
  • A military ID card
Citizenship
  • Birth certificate, or
  • Passport
Immigration status for non U.S. citizens

A copy of your VISA/immigration card

Your information will not be used for immigration enforcement. We only use personal information to check if you are eligible.

One document may count as proof for multiple things. For instance, a driver’s license can prove both name and address.

 

After you apply

We may contact you to ask for more information. Be sure your address and phone number are correct on your application.

It can take up to 45 days for the Department of Social Services (DSS) to decide if you qualify for NC Medicaid. Disability applications can take up to 90 days.

You will get a letter in the mail if you are approved or denied.

 

Printable applications

Download and fill out a printable application to apply by:

  • Mail, email or fax
  • In person (to fill out the form ahead of time)

Download Printable Application (PDF)

If you are a single adult with no dependents or health care coverage from your employer, use the “short form” application (DHB-5201-ia).

Tab/Accordion Items

Fill out the form(s) and include them with your application if you know they are required. Your local Department of Social Services (DSS) will let you know if you need to complete one of these forms.

Additional Forms

Situation Form name 
Someone in your household is eligible for health coverage from a job.  Health Coverage from Jobs - Appendix A (DMA-5202-A)
You or your family members are American Indian or Alaska Native. American Indian or Alaska Native Family Member (AI/AN) - Appendix B (DMA-5202-B)
You would like to choose someone to be your authorized representative.  Designation of Authorized Representative - Appendix C (DHB-5202C-ia)
You want to apply for the program “NC Medicaid for the Aged, Blind, or Disabled”, long-term care or in-home services. Income/Resources - Appendix D (DMA-5202D-ia)  
You would like to ask for coverage for past medical bills. Medical Bills - Appendix E (DHB-5202E-ia) 

Need help?

For guidance with the application: Find a Medicaid Ambassador near you. They can guide you through the online Medicaid application and answer questions. (They cannot complete an application on your behalf.)

For help filling out the application: Make a free appointment with an NC Navigator or call 1-855-733-3711. They can help you complete an application, or explore health insurance options.

For general questions: Call your local Department of Social Services (DSS). To find your local DSS, use this DSS directory or call the NC Medicaid Contact Center at 1-888-245-0179. Help is available in other languages.