Key Facts
Medicaid Expansion in Missouri
Great news for Missourians! After years of advocacy, Missouri voters approved Medicaid expansion in August 2020, and coverage under the expansion began on October 1, 2021. This means hundreds of thousands of previously uninsured Missouri adults now have access to free or low-cost health coverage through MO HealthNet.
Who Now Qualifies for MO HealthNet?
- Adults ages 19-64 with income up to 138% FPL ($20,783/year for individuals)
- Adults without dependent children (this is new under expansion!)
- Parents and caretakers at higher income levels than before
- Pregnant women, children, seniors, and disabled individuals (as before)
What's Covered Under MO HealthNet?
- Doctor visits and preventive care
- Hospital inpatient and outpatient services
- Prescription medications
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Laboratory services and X-rays
- Transportation to medical appointments
How to Apply for MO HealthNet
You can apply for MO HealthNet through:
- Online at mydss.mo.gov
- By phone: 1-855-373-4636
- In person at your local Family Support Division office
- Through a certified application counselor or navigator
Health Insurance Marketplace
Missouri uses the federal Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov. If you earn more than 138% FPL or prefer private coverage, the marketplace offers various plan options with premium tax credits available to reduce costs.
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
MO HealthNet accepts applications year-round, so you can apply anytime you think you might qualify.
Average Costs in Missouri
Health insurance costs in Missouri 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 | $360 - $430 | $1,150 - $1,400 |
| Silver | $450 - $550 | $1,400 - $1,800 |
| Gold | $520 - $620 | $1,650 - $2,000 |
| MO HealthNet | $0 | $0 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Missouri expanded Medicaid?
Yes! Missouri expanded Medicaid in October 2021 after voters approved expansion in August 2020. Adults ages 19-64 earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level ($20,783 for an individual in 2025) now qualify for MO HealthNet coverage.
When did Missouri expand Medicaid?
Missouri voters approved Medicaid expansion in August 2020, and coverage under the expansion began on October 1, 2021. This was a major victory for hundreds of thousands of previously uninsured Missourians.
When is Open Enrollment for Missouri health insurance?
Open Enrollment for 2025 marketplace coverage runs from November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025. Missouri uses the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov. MO HealthNet (Medicaid) accepts applications year-round.
How much does health insurance cost in Missouri?
The average monthly premium for a benchmark Silver plan in Missouri is approximately $450-550 before subsidies. Many Missouri residents qualify for premium tax credits or now qualify for free coverage through MO HealthNet expansion.
Need Help Finding Missouri Coverage?
Our licensed agents can help you determine if you qualify for the new MO HealthNet expansion or find the best marketplace plan for your situation.
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