Health Insurance Overview
Mississippi residents have several options for health insurance coverage, including employer-sponsored plans, individual marketplace coverage through HealthCare.gov, and traditional Medicaid for eligible populations. Understanding your options is key to finding affordable coverage.
Medicaid in Mississippi
Mississippi has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. This means the program primarily covers:
- Children under 19 in families with low income
- Pregnant women with income up to 194% of poverty level
- Parents with very low income (typically below 27% of poverty)
- Seniors age 65+ who meet income requirements
- Individuals with disabilities
How to Apply for Mississippi Medicaid
You can apply for Mississippi Medicaid through:
- Online: Visit the Mississippi Division of Medicaid website
- Phone: Call 1-800-421-2408
- In Person: Visit your local Department of Human Services office
Health Insurance Marketplace
Mississippi uses the federal Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov. During open enrollment, you can compare plans, check for subsidies, and enroll in coverage that starts the following year.
How to Enroll
- Visit HealthCare.gov
- Create an account and complete your application
- Review available plans and subsidy amounts
- Select a plan and pay your first premium
Average Costs and Subsidies
Many Mississippi residents qualify for premium tax credits that significantly reduce monthly costs. Your subsidy amount depends on your household income and the cost of plans in your area.
Key cost factors in Mississippi:
- Average benchmark plan premiums vary by county
- Subsidies available for income 100-400% of federal poverty level
- Cost-sharing reductions for Silver plans if income is below 250% poverty
- Premium costs increase with age and tobacco use
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Mississippi expanded Medicaid?
No, Mississippi has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. This means adults without children generally cannot qualify for Medicaid regardless of income. However, children, pregnant women, elderly, and disabled individuals may still qualify under traditional Medicaid rules.
How do I apply for health insurance in Mississippi?
Mississippi uses the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov. You can apply online, by phone at 1-800-318-2596, or with help from a licensed agent. Open enrollment runs from November 1 to January 15 each year.
What is the coverage gap in Mississippi?
Because Mississippi has not expanded Medicaid, some adults fall into a "coverage gap" - they earn too much for traditional Medicaid but too little to qualify for marketplace subsidies (which start at 100% of poverty level). These individuals may have limited options for affordable coverage.
Can I get subsidies for health insurance in Mississippi?
Yes, if your income is between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level (about $14,580 to $58,320 for an individual in 2024), you may qualify for premium tax credits to lower your monthly costs. Additional cost-sharing reductions are available for those earning up to 250% of poverty.
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