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ALL QUESTIONS

Your MNsure and Medical Assistance questions, answered

Call MinnAssist at (866) 655-6606 for free help. Below are 118 common questions about Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare and MNsure, grouped by topic, each with a link to the full page.

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Topics

Applying

When does my coverage start?
It depends on the program and when you applied. Your approval letter says the date. More: Just Enrolled in MNsure? What to Do Next
I didn't get my card.
Call your health plan, or call us and we help. More: Just Enrolled in MNsure? What to Do Next
Is a checkup free?
Preventive care like a yearly checkup is usually free. More: Just Enrolled in MNsure? What to Do Next
Does help cost anything?
No. More: Just Enrolled in MNsure? What to Do Next
Does it cost anything?
No. Our help is free. More: Free MNsure Help by Phone, Anywhere in Minnesota
Do I have to come in person?
No. We help you by phone from anywhere in Minnesota. More: Free MNsure Help by Phone, Anywhere in Minnesota
Can you help in my language?
Yes. Help is available in English, Somali, Oromo and Kiswahili. Tell us your language when you book. More: Free MNsure Help by Phone, Anywhere in Minnesota
What can you help with?
New applications, renewals, adding a family member, and sending in proof for Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare and MNsure plans. More: Free MNsure Help by Phone, Anywhere in Minnesota
How long does it take?
Often a few weeks. It can be longer if proof is missing. We help you send it quickly. More: How to Apply for Medical Assistance in Minnesota
Can I apply if I'm not a citizen?
Many immigrants can. Call us and we check your options. More: How to Apply for Medical Assistance in Minnesota
Can I apply any time of year?
Yes, for Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare. More: How to Apply for Medical Assistance in Minnesota
Why is my application still pending?
Often the agency is waiting for proof from you, like pay stubs or ID. Check your letters for a request and a due date. More: Medical Assistance Application Pending in Minnesota?
What if I missed the due date?
Call us. We'll help you send it in or apply again. More: Medical Assistance Application Pending in Minnesota?
I forgot my MNsure password. What do I do?
Use the password reset option on the MNsure login page. If you're still stuck, call us and we'll walk you through it. More: MNsure Login or Account Problems? Free Help
Will you ask for my password?
No. We never ask for your password. More: MNsure Login or Account Problems? Free Help
Why is my application stuck?
Often the agency is waiting for proof from you. We help you find what's missing and send it in. More: MNsure Login or Account Problems? Free Help
What is an MNsure navigator?
A navigator is a person trained and certified by MNsure to help you apply for and renew health coverage. Navigators work for community organizations, not for insurance companies, and their help is always free. More: Free MNsure Navigator in Minnesota, by Phone
Is a navigator the same as an insurance broker?
No. A broker is licensed to sell insurance and can recommend a plan. A navigator helps with the whole application, explains your choices in plain words, and helps with Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare too. A navigator never sells you anything. More: Free MNsure Navigator in Minnesota, by Phone
How much does a navigator cost?
Nothing. Navigator help is free. Some health plans have a monthly premium, and we explain that before you choose. More: Free MNsure Navigator in Minnesota, by Phone
Do I have to meet a navigator in person?
No. MinnAssist navigators help you by phone from anywhere in Minnesota, in every county. More: Free MNsure Navigator in Minnesota, by Phone
What should I have ready?
Your Social Security number if you have one, recent pay stubs or income information, any letters from MNsure or your county, and immigration papers if they apply to you. If you don't have everything, call anyway. We help you work out what is missing. More: Free MNsure Navigator in Minnesota, by Phone
Can I use HealthCare.gov in Minnesota?
No. Minnesota uses MNsure. More: MNsure or HealthCare.gov? Where Minnesotans Sign Up
Is MNsure the same as Obamacare?
Yes. MNsure is Minnesota's Affordable Care Act marketplace. More: MNsure or HealthCare.gov? Where Minnesotans Sign Up
Where do I apply for Medical Assistance now?
Through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) website, mn.gov/dhs/apply. We help you do it. More: Help with MNsure's New System (2026)
Where do I buy a private plan?
Through MNsure's new system, at mnsure.org. More: Help with MNsure's New System (2026)
Can you help me if I'm confused by the new system?
Yes. We walk you through it by phone, for free. More: Help with MNsure's New System (2026)

Renewals

What if I missed the deadline?
Call us. Don't assume it's too late. The state decides whether your coverage can start again. More: Medical Assistance Renewal Help in Minnesota
How do I know when my renewal is due?
Watch your mail for the envelope with a blue circle, or check your month at mnrenewallookup.com. More: Medical Assistance Renewal Help in Minnesota
Can you help me by phone?
Yes. We help people anywhere in Minnesota by phone and email. More: Medical Assistance Renewal Help in Minnesota
How many Minnesotans lost Medical Assistance at renewal in 2026?
In 2026, as of October, 184,963 people lost Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare at renewal, according to Minnesota Department of Human Services renewal data. More: Minnesota Medical Assistance Renewal Tracker 2026: Who Lost Coverage, by County
Why do most people lose Medical Assistance at renewal?
Paperwork. Of the 184,963 people who lost coverage at renewal in 2026 (as of October), 159,824 (86%) lost it because the renewal wasn't completed. Only 11,852 (6%) were found no longer eligible. More: Minnesota Medical Assistance Renewal Tracker 2026: Who Lost Coverage, by County
Which Minnesota counties have the highest loss rate at renewal?
In 2026 the highest shares were in Nobles (21.8%), Hennepin (20.4%), Anoka (16.4%), Scott (15.6%) and Mower (15.3%) counties. More: Minnesota Medical Assistance Renewal Tracker 2026: Who Lost Coverage, by County
What can I do if I lost Medical Assistance because of paperwork?
You can often get it back. If your renewal was closed for missing paperwork, send it in within 4 months after your coverage ended and the county checks your eligibility again, or apply again. MinnAssist helps for free: (866) 655-6606. More: Minnesota Medical Assistance Renewal Tracker 2026: Who Lost Coverage, by County
Who can help me renew Medical Assistance for free in Minnesota?
MinnAssist is an independent, certified MNsure navigator organization that helps people anywhere in Minnesota renew Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare, free, by phone. Call (866) 655-6606. More: Minnesota Medical Assistance Renewal Tracker 2026: Who Lost Coverage, by County
When does it start?
January 1, 2027. More: Do I Have to Work to Keep Medical Assistance in 2027? Free Minnesota Checker
Who has to meet it?
Adults 21 to 64 on Medical Assistance who don't live with their children under 19, aren't pregnant, can't get Medicare and don't get Medical Assistance because of a disability, unless they qualify for an exemption. More: Do I Have to Work to Keep Medical Assistance in 2027? Free Minnesota Checker
Who can help for free?
MinnAssist, by phone: (866) 655-6606. More: Do I Have to Work to Keep Medical Assistance in 2027? Free Minnesota Checker
Does this start now?
No. It starts January 1, 2027. More: Minnesota Medical Assistance Work Requirement Help (2027)
I'm a parent. Does it apply to me?
No, not if you live with your children under 19. More: Minnesota Medical Assistance Work Requirement Help (2027)
What counts?
Earning at least $580 in a month, or 80 hours of work, volunteering or a work program, or going to school at least half-time. More: Minnesota Medical Assistance Work Requirement Help (2027)

Income limits

What is the Medical Assistance income limit for one person?
About $1,769 a month, or $21,227 a year, for coverage from July 2026 to June 2027. More: Medical Assistance Income Limits in Minnesota (2026-2027)
Is there an asset limit?
Not for most adults under 65, children and pregnant people. Different rules apply for people 65 and older or with a disability. More: Medical Assistance Income Limits in Minnesota (2026-2027)
What if my income changes?
Report changes. If your income goes up, you may move to MinnesotaCare. We help you report it. More: Medical Assistance Income Limits in Minnesota (2026-2027)
Does it cost anything to get help?
No. Our help is free. More: Medical Assistance Income Limits in Minnesota (2026-2027)
Is this checker free and private?
Yes. It runs only in your browser, and nothing is saved or sent. More: Minnesota Health Coverage Checker 2027: Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare or MNsure?
Who can help me apply?
MinnAssist, an independent certified MNsure navigator organization, free by phone: (866) 655-6606. More: Minnesota Health Coverage Checker 2027: Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare or MNsure?
What is the MinnesotaCare income limit for one person in 2027?
$31,920 a year. More: MinnesotaCare Income Limits 2027
Can I get MinnesotaCare if my job offers insurance?
Usually not, if the job's insurance is affordable. We help you check. More: MinnesotaCare Income Limits 2027
When can I apply?
Any time of year. More: MinnesotaCare Income Limits 2027
Do I report gross or net income?
Generally your income after allowed business expenses. We help you work it out. More: Self-Employed in Minnesota? MNsure and MinnesotaCare Help
My income changes every month. What do I do?
You estimate your yearly income and report changes. We help you make a fair estimate. More: Self-Employed in Minnesota? MNsure and MinnesotaCare Help
I don't have a tax return yet.
You can use your own records. More: Self-Employed in Minnesota? MNsure and MinnesotaCare Help
Do I have to choose?
No. One application checks you for all of them. More: MinnesotaCare vs. Medical Assistance: What's the Difference?
Can my family be on different programs?
Yes. Children often qualify for Medical Assistance while parents get MinnesotaCare or a MNsure plan. More: MinnesotaCare vs. Medical Assistance: What's the Difference?
Which has better coverage?
Both cover doctor visits, hospital, prescriptions and more. Medical Assistance has no premium. More: MinnesotaCare vs. Medical Assistance: What's the Difference?

Coverage ended or denied

How long do I have?
60 days from the day your coverage ends. You can also apply up to 60 days before it ends. More: Lost Your Job or Health Insurance in Minnesota? 60 Days to Get Coverage
Is MNsure cheaper than COBRA?
MNsure says its plans typically have a lower monthly premium, and only MNsure offers tax credits to lower the cost. More: Lost Your Job or Health Insurance in Minnesota? 60 Days to Get Coverage
Can I apply for Medical Assistance any time?
Yes, if you qualify. Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare are open all year. More: Lost Your Job or Health Insurance in Minnesota? 60 Days to Get Coverage
Do you sell insurance?
No. Our help is free, and we don't sell insurance. More: Lost Your Job or Health Insurance in Minnesota? 60 Days to Get Coverage
Do I have to pay for MinnesotaCare?
Most members pay a monthly premium. The amount depends on your income. More: Lost Medical Assistance October 1, 2026? MinnesotaCare Help
I got a letter. What do I do?
Read it and answer by the due date. Call us and we'll help you with it. More: Lost Medical Assistance October 1, 2026? MinnesotaCare Help
Can you give immigration advice?
No. For immigration or legal advice, contact the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota. More: Lost Medical Assistance October 1, 2026? MinnesotaCare Help
Does your help cost anything?
No. Our help is free. More: Lost Medical Assistance October 1, 2026? MinnesotaCare Help
Can I get my Medical Assistance back?
Often, yes. If it ended because the renewal or proof was not turned in, send it within 4 months after it ended, and the county checks your eligibility again. More: Medical Assistance Ended in Minnesota? How to Get It Back
Will I have a gap in coverage?
Sometimes. The sooner you send it in, the smaller any gap. Call us right away. More: Medical Assistance Ended in Minnesota? How to Get It Back
What if I don't have my renewal form?
We help you get a new one, or apply again. More: Medical Assistance Ended in Minnesota? How to Get It Back
Does this cost anything?
No. Our help is free. More: Medical Assistance Ended in Minnesota? How to Get It Back
How long do I have to appeal?
Usually 30 days from the notice date, or up to 90 days with a good reason. More: Medical Assistance Denied in Minnesota? How to Appeal
Can I keep my coverage during an appeal?
If you appeal before the change takes effect, you can ask to keep it while you wait. More: Medical Assistance Denied in Minnesota? How to Appeal
Is a navigator a lawyer?
No. We help you understand the notice and fix missing paperwork. For legal advice, contact legal aid. More: Medical Assistance Denied in Minnesota? How to Appeal

Life changes

How long is a special enrollment period?
Usually 60 days from the life change. More: MNsure Special Enrollment Period: Can I Sign Up Now?
I lost Medical Assistance. Can I get a MNsure plan?
Yes, losing coverage is a life change. You usually have 60 days. More: MNsure Special Enrollment Period: Can I Sign Up Now?
Is my newborn automatically covered?
If you had Medical Assistance when your baby was born, yes, through the month of the first birthday. Report the birth to start it. More: New Baby in Minnesota? Getting Your Baby Covered
How do I report the birth?
Call your county or update your MNsure account. We do it with you by phone. More: New Baby in Minnesota? Getting Your Baby Covered
I have a private plan. How long do I have to add my baby?
60 days after the birth. More: New Baby in Minnesota? Getting Your Baby Covered
Do I have to be a citizen?
No. If you are undocumented or can't get regular MA, you may still get pregnancy coverage, without a Social Security number or proof of immigration status. More: Pregnant in Minnesota? Free Help Applying for Medical Assistance
Is my baby covered?
Yes, from birth through the end of the month of their first birthday, if you were on MA or emergency-only coverage when the baby was born. More: Pregnant in Minnesota? Free Help Applying for Medical Assistance
What happens if I don't report a change?
Your coverage could end, or you could owe money back at tax time if you get a tax credit. More: How to Report Changes for Medical Assistance or MNsure
My income went down. Should I report it?
Yes. You may qualify for more help. More: How to Report Changes for Medical Assistance or MNsure
Can you report it for me?
We do it with you by phone. More: How to Report Changes for Medical Assistance or MNsure
When do I lose my parent's insurance?
Usually at the end of the month you turn 26, or the end of that plan year. Check with the plan. More: Turning 26 in Minnesota? Getting Your Own Health Insurance
How long do I have to sign up?
60 days after losing the coverage. More: Turning 26 in Minnesota? Getting Your Own Health Insurance
Can I apply before I turn 26?
Yes, you can apply up to 60 days before. More: Turning 26 in Minnesota? Getting Your Own Health Insurance
Do I lose Medical Assistance at 65?
Not automatically. The rules change, and you renew under the rules for people 65 and older. We help you through it. More: Turning 65 in Minnesota: Medical Assistance, MNsure and Medicare
Should I keep my MNsure plan after I get Medicare?
Usually no. Once you have Medicare, end your MNsure plan, and tax credits stop. More: Turning 65 in Minnesota: Medical Assistance, MNsure and Medicare
Can you help me sign up for Medicare?
We help with Medical Assistance and the Medicare Savings Program, and can point you to free Medicare counseling. More: Turning 65 in Minnesota: Medical Assistance, MNsure and Medicare

Plans and costs

How far back can Medical Assistance pay?
Up to 3 months before the month you applied, if you qualified in those months. More: Can Medical Assistance Pay My Old Medical Bills in Minnesota?
Do I have to ask?
Yes. Say you have recent medical bills when you apply. We make sure it's included. More: Can Medical Assistance Pay My Old Medical Bills in Minnesota?
Does MinnesotaCare pay old bills?
Usually not. MinnesotaCare starts going forward. More: Can Medical Assistance Pay My Old Medical Bills in Minnesota?
Do all plans cover the same things?
All MNsure plans cover essential health benefits, like doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions and preventive care. More: MNsure Bronze, Silver or Gold Plan: Which Is Right for Me?
Can I use my tax credit on any level?
Yes. More: MNsure Bronze, Silver or Gold Plan: Which Is Right for Me?
Which one should I pick?
It depends on your budget and how much care you expect. We walk through it with you. More: MNsure Bronze, Silver or Gold Plan: Which Is Right for Me?
When does open enrollment start?
November 1, 2026. More: MNsure Open Enrollment 2027: Dates and Free Help
What's the last day to sign up?
January 15, 2027. Sign up by December 15 if you want coverage on January 1. More: MNsure Open Enrollment 2027: Dates and Free Help
Do I have to wait for open enrollment for Medical Assistance?
No. You can apply for Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare any time of year. More: MNsure Open Enrollment 2027: Dates and Free Help
How much will I save?
It depends on your income, age, household and the plan. You have to apply to get your exact amount. We help you do that for free. More: Lower Your MNsure Premium: 2027 Tax Credit Income Limits
Where do I get the tax credit?
Only through MNsure. More: Lower Your MNsure Premium: 2027 Tax Credit Income Limits
What if I earn less?
You may qualify for MinnesotaCare or Medical Assistance. We check that for you. More: Lower Your MNsure Premium: 2027 Tax Credit Income Limits

Special situations

Can I sign up for MNsure any time?
Yes, if you're a member of a federally recognized tribe. More: Health Coverage for American Indian Families in Minnesota
Do I lose IHS if I get insurance?
No. You can use both. More: Health Coverage for American Indian Families in Minnesota
Is Medical Assistance free for American Indian members?
Medical Assistance has no premium, and American Indian members are exempt from copays. More: Health Coverage for American Indian Families in Minnesota
Does my parent's income count?
If a parent claims you as a tax dependent, their household is usually used. We help you work it out. More: Health Coverage for College Students in Minnesota
Can I stay on my parent's plan?
Yes, until 26. More: Health Coverage for College Students in Minnesota
Can a family member start the application?
Yes. Family members and reentry staff can call us to start. More: Apply for Medical Assistance Before Release from Prison in Minnesota
How early can we apply?
Within 45 days before release from prison. More: Apply for Medical Assistance Before Release from Prison in Minnesota
What do you need from us?
The release date, the facility, and basic household and income information. More: Apply for Medical Assistance Before Release from Prison in Minnesota
Is there an income limit for MA-EPD?
MA-EPD has no upper income limit; the premium goes up with income. More: MA-EPD: Medical Assistance for Working People with Disabilities in Minnesota
Do I have to work full time?
No, but you must have earned income. We check the details with you. More: MA-EPD: Medical Assistance for Working People with Disabilities in Minnesota
Do I have to be 65?
No. You need Medicare. People under 65 who have Medicare because of a disability can apply too. More: Medicare Savings Program Help in Minnesota
Is there a savings limit?
Yes: $10,000 for 1 person, $18,000 for 2 or more. More: Medicare Savings Program Help in Minnesota
What if I make a little more?
Call us. Some income doesn't count, and we'll check which level fits. More: Medicare Savings Program Help in Minnesota
Do you sell Medicare plans?
No. Our help is free, and we don't sell insurance. More: Medicare Savings Program Help in Minnesota

About MinnAssist

What is MinnAssist's phone number?
Call MinnAssist at (866) 655-6606. More: MinnAssist Phone Number and Contact
Is MinnAssist the same as MNsure?
No. MinnAssist is an independent, certified MNsure navigator organization. We are not MNsure, DHS or a county. Our help is free. More: MinnAssist Phone Number and Contact
Which languages do you help in?
Our navigators speak English, Somali, Oromo and Kiswahili. For every other language, we add a free professional interpreter to the call. More: Free MNsure Help in Your Language, Minnesota
Is there a cost to partners or clients?
No. More: Refer a Client to a Free MNsure Navigator
Do you help people outside the Twin Cities?
Yes, all 87 counties by phone. More: Refer a Client to a Free MNsure Navigator
Can MinnAssist help me if I live outside the Twin Cities?
Yes. We help by phone in every Minnesota county, from Kittson to Houston. More: MinnAssist

Call (866) 655-6606 or book a free appointment.

Call (866) 655-6606 Book a free phone appointment

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