MINNESOTACARE VS. MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
MinnesotaCare or Medical Assistance: which one is for me?
Your income decides it. Medical Assistance is for the lowest incomes and has no monthly premium. MinnesotaCare is for incomes a bit higher and has a low premium. Above that, a MNsure plan with a tax credit. You don't pick: one application checks all three. Call MinnAssist at (866) 655-6606.
Compare your options
| Program | Who it's for | Monthly premium | When you can apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Assistance | Lowest incomes, children, pregnant people, people with disabilities | No premium | Any time |
| MinnesotaCare | Income up to 200% of the poverty guidelines and no affordable job insurance | Low premium | Any time |
| MNsure plan with tax credit | Higher incomes | Premium lowered by a tax credit | Open enrollment (Nov 1 to Jan 15) or after a life change |
Learn more
Common questions
- Do I have to choose?
- No. One application checks you for all of them.
- Can my family be on different programs?
- Yes. Children often qualify for Medical Assistance while parents get MinnesotaCare or a MNsure plan.
- Which has better coverage?
- Both cover doctor visits, hospital, prescriptions and more. Medical Assistance has no premium.
- Does it cost anything to get help?
- No.
More help from MinnAssist
Call (866) 655-6606 or book a free appointment.
Independent navigator organization, not MNsure or DHS. The state decides whether you qualify.