Key Facts
Medicaid Expansion in Nebraska
Great news for Nebraskans! Nebraska voters approved Medicaid expansion in November 2018, and coverage under the expansion (Heritage Health Adult) began on October 1, 2020. This historic change has brought health coverage to tens of thousands of previously uninsured Nebraska adults.
Who Qualifies for Heritage Health Adult?
- Adults ages 19-64 with income up to 138% FPL ($20,783/year for individuals)
- Adults without dependent children (this is new under expansion!)
- Nebraska residents who meet citizenship or immigration requirements
- Not currently enrolled in Medicare or other comprehensive coverage
Heritage Health Adult Benefits
Nebraska's expansion program provides comprehensive coverage through managed care organizations:
- Doctor visits and preventive care
- Hospital inpatient and outpatient services
- Prescription drug coverage
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Dental services
- Vision care
- Laboratory and diagnostic services
How to Apply
You can apply for Heritage Health Adult through:
- Online at ACCESSNebraska.ne.gov
- By phone: 1-855-632-7633
- In person at your local DHHS office
- Through a certified application counselor
Health Insurance Marketplace
Nebraska 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.
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
Heritage Health Adult accepts applications year-round, so you can apply anytime you think you might qualify.
Average Costs in Nebraska
Health insurance costs in Nebraska 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 | $420 - $500 | $1,300 - $1,600 |
| Silver | $520 - $620 | $1,650 - $2,000 |
| Gold | $600 - $700 | $1,900 - $2,300 |
| Heritage Health Adult | $0 | $0 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Nebraska expanded Medicaid?
Yes! Nebraska expanded Medicaid in October 2020 after voters approved expansion in November 2018. Adults ages 19-64 earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level ($20,783 for an individual in 2025) now qualify for Heritage Health Adult coverage.
What is Heritage Health Adult?
Heritage Health Adult is Nebraska's Medicaid expansion program that provides comprehensive health coverage to low-income adults. The program is administered through managed care organizations and includes medical, dental, vision, and behavioral health services.
When is Open Enrollment for Nebraska health insurance?
Open Enrollment for 2025 marketplace coverage runs from November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025. Nebraska uses the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov. Heritage Health Adult (Medicaid expansion) accepts applications year-round.
How much does health insurance cost in Nebraska?
The average monthly premium for a benchmark Silver plan in Nebraska is approximately $520-620 before subsidies. Many Nebraska residents qualify for premium tax credits or now qualify for free coverage through Heritage Health Adult expansion.
Need Help Finding Nebraska Coverage?
Our licensed agents can help you determine if you qualify for Heritage Health Adult or find the best marketplace plan for your situation.
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