Key Facts
Medicaid in Kansas
Kansas has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. This means eligibility for Medicaid remains more limited compared to expansion states. However, traditional Medicaid is still available for certain groups.
Who Qualifies for Kansas Medicaid?
- Pregnant women with income up to 166% FPL
- Children under 19 with income up to 166% FPL
- Parents/caretakers with income up to approximately 38% FPL (very limited)
- Seniors 65+ and people with disabilities receiving SSI
- Adults in specific categories (blind, disabled, nursing home eligible)
The Coverage Gap
Because Kansas hasn't expanded Medicaid, some adults fall into a "coverage gap" - they earn too much for traditional Medicaid but may have incomes below the threshold for marketplace subsidies. However, recent federal changes have helped many in this situation access affordable marketplace coverage.
How to Apply
You can apply for Kansas Medicaid (KanCare) through:
- Online at kancare.ks.gov
- By phone: 1-800-792-4884
- In person at your local DCF office
- Through a certified application counselor
Health Insurance Marketplace
Kansas uses the federal Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov. For many Kansans who don't qualify for Medicaid, the marketplace offers the best path to affordable coverage thanks to premium tax credits.
Available Plan Types
- Bronze: Lower premiums, higher out-of-pocket costs (60% coverage)
- Silver: Moderate premiums and costs (70% coverage) - best for subsidies
- Gold: Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket costs (80% coverage)
- Platinum: Highest premiums, lowest out-of-pocket costs (90% coverage)
Enrollment Periods
Open Enrollment: November 1, 2024 - January 15, 2025
Outside of Open Enrollment, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you experience a qualifying life event such as:
- Loss of other health coverage
- Marriage or divorce
- Having a baby or adopting a child
- Moving to Kansas from another state
Average Costs in Kansas
Health insurance costs in Kansas vary based on your age, location, plan type, and tobacco use. Here are typical monthly premiums before subsidies:
| Plan Type | Individual (Age 40) | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze | $400 - $480 | $1,250 - $1,550 |
| Silver | $500 - $600 | $1,550 - $1,950 |
| Gold | $580 - $680 | $1,800 - $2,200 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Kansas expanded Medicaid?
No, Kansas has not expanded Medicaid as of 2025. This means adults without dependent children generally cannot qualify for Medicaid regardless of income, and parents must have very low incomes to qualify. However, marketplace plans with premium subsidies are available for those who don't qualify for traditional Medicaid.
What is the coverage gap in Kansas?
The coverage gap refers to people who earn too much to qualify for Kansas Medicaid but too little to qualify for marketplace subsidies. In non-expansion states like Kansas, some adults fall into this gap. However, enhanced federal subsidies have helped reduce the gap for many Kansans.
When is Open Enrollment for Kansas health insurance?
Open Enrollment for 2025 coverage runs from November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025. Kansas uses the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov. To have coverage starting January 1, 2025, you must enroll by December 15, 2024.
How much does health insurance cost in Kansas?
The average monthly premium for a benchmark Silver plan in Kansas is approximately $500-600 before subsidies. Many Kansas residents qualify for premium tax credits that significantly reduce costs, with some paying less than $50 per month after subsidies.
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