MaineCare eligibility is changing for some noncitizen groups on October 1, 2026.
MaineCare members with certain immigration statuses were recently mailed a letter from Office for Family Independence (OFI). The letter explains changes in these members' MaineCare eligibility which will take effect October 1st, 2026. Members can call OFI at 1-855-797-4357 if they need their letter translated, or view translated versions of the letter in French, Arabic, Lingala, Portuguese, Somali, or Spanish. The English version of the letter can be viewed here. More information is available in this flyer.
All children under 21 and people who are pregnant or up to 12 months postpartum can keep their MaineCare coverage, regardless of their immigration status.
Didn't receive a letter, but wonder if the changes may apply to you? Call the Consumer Assistance HelpLine at 1-800-965-7476
Immigrants
Non-citizen children and pregnant persons who live in Maine are eligible to apply for MaineCare.
According to the MaineCare Eligibility Manual, the five-year bar refers to the waiting period that begins on the date the immigrant obtains qualified alien status. Once the five-year waiting period expires the applicant is eligible for full MaineCare benefits. A law change in 2022 lifted the waiting period for children under age 21 and those who are pregnant.
How to apply for MaineCare
There are 3 ways to apply:
- Apply online at: MyMaineConnection.gov
Tip: Write down your application number and save a copy of your application as a PDF. This way you can prove the date you applied. See our MC Online Portal tip sheet for more information.
- Apply with a paper application.
Call 1-800-965-7476 to have one mailed to you, or print an application at: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/applications-forms.
Mail it to: DHHS, 114 Corn Shop Lane, Farmington, ME 04938
Tip: Send it by certified mail and keep a copy of the mail delivery receipt. This way you can prove the date you applied.
- Apply in person at any DHHS office:
Call 1-800-965-7476 to find a DHHS office near you, or visit: https://gateway.maine.gov/dhhs-apps/office_finder/
Tip: Get there early in the morning for a shorter wait time.
You can apply at many health centers and any family planning clinic or call our HelpLine at 1-800-965-7476 to find out more about eligibility or for help completing an application. We can help.
If you don’t qualify for MaineCare and don’t have other health coverage, you may qualify for Marketplace Coverage
Documented immigrants are eligible for some public benefits, depending on factors such as immigration status and age. If your household includes any family member born in the United States that can make you eligible for some supports.
Maine Equal Justice also provides information about public benefits available for legal immigrants, refugees or asylees, Iraqi or Afghan Immigrants with special immigration status, and documented immigrants. Learn more in their guides: English | Français | Español | Português | Lingála | عربى | Soomaali
