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Apply for Medicaid

Navigating healthcare coverage shouldn’t be stressful. Whether you are applying for the first time, completing an annual renewal, or learning about upcoming Healthy Michigan Plan requirements, Aspire Rural Health System is here to guide you every step of the way.

ENROLLMENT OPTIONS

Need Medicaid? Two Ways to Sign Up for Healthcare Coverage

Choose the enrollment method that is easiest for you. Many Michigan residents qualify for free or low-cost comprehensive healthcare coverage.

Apply Online via MI Bridges

The quickest and most convenient way to apply. Many applicants receive auto-approval! You can submit forms, upload verification documents, and check your application status anytime.

Apply by Mail

Download a paper application online or pick up a printed packet at any Aspire hospital patient registration desk or county MDHHS office. Mail to:

Michigan Dept. of Health & Human Services
Health Insurance Affordability Program
PO Box 8123
Royal Oak, MI 48068-9985

ANNUAL RENEWALS

Maintain Coverage: How to Complete Medicaid Redeterminations

Michigan Medicaid renewals require annual reporting. Follow these three steps to ensure your healthcare benefits continue without interruption:

01

Update Contact Info

Make sure the state has your correct mailing address, phone, and email. Verify your information and check your renewal date at Michigan.gov/MIBridges.

02

Complete Renewal Packet

When your MDHHS renewal packet arrives in the mail, fill it out thoroughly. Report any changes in household size or income, and attach requested proof documents.

03

Submit & Confirm

Return your completed packet before the deadline. You can submit online via MIBridges, drop it off at your county MDHHS office, or mail it in the provided return envelope.

Did You Miss Your Renewal Due Date?

If you missed your renewal deadline and your coverage closed, don’t worry. In many situations, MDHHS can reinstate your coverage if you submit your completed paperwork within 90 days. Call our Financial Counseling team at (989) 912-6800 for immediate assistance.

UPCOMING FEDERAL POLICY

Healthy Michigan Plan: Work Requirements in Michigan

Starting January 1, 2027, federal law will require Healthy Michigan Plan recipients to report 80 hours per month of qualifying work or approved activities, and renew coverage every six months.

Who Must Report Work Requirements?

Healthy Michigan Plan recipients between the ages of 19 and 64 who are not eligible for an exemption or excuse must meet and report monthly qualifying activities.

How Often is Reporting Required?

Recipients will report every six months prior to renewing coverage. If you are applying to receive Healthy Michigan coverage, you must meet the 80-hour requirement during the month before your scheduled coverage start date.

Who is Exempt from Work Requirements?

You may be exempt or excused from work reporting if you are:

Pregnant or up to 12 months postpartum
Former foster youth under age 26
American Indian or Alaska Native
Veteran with a 100% disability rating
Patient with complex health needs limiting work (medically frail)
Actively participating in substance use disorder treatment
Parent or caregiver of a child aged 13 or younger
Caregiver of a person with a documented disability
Already meeting SNAP or TANF work requirements
Recently released from incarceration

What Activities Qualify for the 80-Hour Requirement?

The following activities count toward the 80 hours per month requirement:

Working a full-time, part-time, or seasonal job
Self-employment or contract work
Enrolled in high school, college, or vocational courses
Job search and job training programs
Approved community service and volunteering
Internships or apprenticeships

PATIENT RESOURCES

Helpful Resources & Financial Programs

Explore additional coverage tools, state guidelines, and Aspire’s local financial assistance options:

MI Bridges Benefits Portal

Apply for healthcare coverage, food assistance, cash support, and state emergency relief directly through Michigan’s unified portal.

Aspire Financial Assistance

If you do not qualify for Medicaid, you may still be eligible for free or discounted care through Aspire’s Sliding Fee Financial Assistance Program.

FAP Application Form

Download Aspire’s official Plain Language Financial Assistance Policy and application (FIN-104) to apply for hospital and clinic bill discounts.