Key Facts for Arkansas
Arkansas Works (Medicaid Expansion)
Arkansas expanded Medicaid through a unique program called Arkansas Works. This program provides health coverage to adults ages 19-64 who earn up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Arkansas Works uses premium assistance to help eligible individuals purchase private health insurance through the marketplace, rather than traditional Medicaid. This gives enrollees access to the same provider networks as private insurance customers.
Who Qualifies for Arkansas Works?
- Age: Adults 19-64 years old
- Income: Up to 138% FPL (about $20,120/year for an individual in 2024)
- Residency: Must be an Arkansas resident
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
- Not eligible for Medicare
Traditional Arkansas Medicaid
Traditional Medicaid continues to cover:
- Children: Up to 216% FPL through ARKids First
- Pregnant women: Up to 214% FPL
- Elderly and disabled: Based on SSI eligibility
- Medically frail individuals: Those exempt from Arkansas Works
How to Apply
- Online: Visit access.arkansas.gov
- Phone: Call 1-855-372-1084
- In Person: Visit your local Department of Human Services office
- Through Healthcare.gov: The marketplace will screen you for Medicaid eligibility
Health Insurance Marketplace
Arkansas uses the federal Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov. Residents who earn above 138% FPL can shop for private insurance plans here.
November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025. Enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1, 2025.
How to Enroll
- Visit HealthCare.gov
- Create an account or log in
- Complete your application with income and household information
- You'll be screened for Medicaid/Arkansas Works eligibility first
- If not eligible for Medicaid, compare marketplace plans
- Select a plan and complete enrollment
Special Enrollment Periods
You can enroll outside of Open Enrollment if you experience a qualifying life event such as losing other coverage, getting married, having a baby, or moving to Arkansas.
Average Costs in Arkansas
Health insurance costs in Arkansas are generally moderate compared to national averages. Here's what to expect:
- Benchmark Silver Plan: Average of $450-550/month before subsidies for a 40-year-old
- With Premium Tax Credits: Many Arkansans pay $0-100/month after subsidies
- Arkansas Works: Low or no cost coverage for eligible individuals
- Bronze Plans: Lower premiums, higher deductibles
- Gold Plans: Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket costs
If your income is between 138% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level, you likely qualify for premium subsidies. Enhanced subsidies are available through 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Arkansas Works?
Arkansas Works is Arkansas's Medicaid expansion program. It provides health coverage to adults ages 19-64 who earn up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. Unlike traditional Medicaid, Arkansas Works uses premium assistance to help eligible individuals purchase private health insurance through the marketplace.
Who qualifies for Arkansas Medicaid?
Arkansas Medicaid covers children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and through Arkansas Works, adults ages 19-64 earning up to 138% FPL. Traditional Medicaid covers children up to 216% FPL and pregnant women up to 214% FPL.
When is Open Enrollment for Arkansas health insurance?
Arkansas uses the federal HealthCare.gov marketplace. Open Enrollment for 2025 coverage runs from November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025. However, Arkansas Works (Medicaid) enrollment is available year-round if you qualify.
How do I apply for Arkansas Works or Medicaid?
You can apply online at access.arkansas.gov, by phone at 1-855-372-1084, or in person at your local Department of Human Services office. You can also apply through HealthCare.gov which will determine if you qualify for Medicaid.
Need Help Finding Coverage in Arkansas?
Whether you qualify for Arkansas Works or need marketplace coverage, our licensed agents can help you find the right plan.
Get Free Guidance