What is a common requirement for Medicaid eligibility?

Being a U.S. citizen is a common requirement for Medicaid eligibility. While some states provide Medicaid benefits to certain lawful residents or undocumented immigrants under specific programs, the general rule specifies that U.S. citizens must meet residency and income criteria to qualify. Medicaid is designed to assist individuals and families with limited income and resources, primarily targeting those who may be unable to afford healthcare.

In contrast to the option regarding Medicare, Medicaid eligibility does not require individuals to have higher income than Medicare; rather, it usually has lower income limits. Additionally, educational attainment, such as holding a college degree, is not a factor in determining Medicaid eligibility. Having a permanent disability is relevant for some Medicaid programs, particularly for those who qualify under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) criteria; however, it is not a universal requirement, making U.S. citizenship the more broadly applicable criterion for Medicaid eligibility.