How to apply for Medicaid in New Hampshire
Who this is for: NH residents with low or no income who need health coverage — including coverage for therapy and psychiatric care.
Do I qualify?
You might qualify if you live in New Hampshire and have low income. A few things to know:
- Adults 19–64 can qualify for Granite Advantage based mostly on income (generally up to about 138% of the federal poverty level).
- Children, pregnant people, parents, seniors, and people with disabilities have their own Medicaid pathways, often with higher income limits.
- You must be a NH resident and a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant.
- Not sure? Apply anyway. The application figures out which program fits — you don't have to know in advance.
You can have Medicaid and see a therapist right away
NH Medicaid covers behavioral health. Once you're enrolled, you can use it at Community Mental Health Centers and with any provider who accepts Medicaid.
What you'll need before you start
Gather what you can. Missing something? Apply anyway and send it later.
- Social Security number for each person applying.
- Proof of income — recent pay stubs, or a benefit letter for Social Security/SSI/unemployment. (No income? You can state that.)
- Proof you live in NH — a lease, utility bill, or mail with your name and address. If you have no fixed address, you can still apply — see the tip below.
- Immigration documents if you are not a U.S. citizen.
- Basic info: dates of birth, and any other health insurance you have.
No home address? You can still get Medicaid.
If you're homeless or between places, NH Medicaid accepts your own statement of where you live — you don't need a lease or utility bill. You can use a shelter's address or your DHHS District Office address to get mail. Need help gathering documents? See How to get the documents you need.
How to apply — four ways
Pick whichever is easiest. It's the same application either way, and the same form can also apply you for food assistance (SNAP) and cash assistance at the same time.
- 1
Online — fastest
Go to nheasy.nh.gov (NH EASY). Create an account and complete the application. You can upload documents right in the portal and check your status later.
- 2
By phone
Call DHHS at 1-844-275-3447 (1-844-ASK-DHHS), Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. They can take your application or mail you a paper one. Ask for help in your language if you need it.
- 3
In person
Visit your local DHHS District Office. A worker can help you fill out the application and answer questions face to face.
- 4
By mail or drop-off
Fill out the paper Application for Assistance (Form 800) and mail or drop it at a District Office. Start at dhhs.nh.gov/apply-assistance.
What happens after you apply
- 1
DHHS reviews your application
They may contact you if they need more information. Answer any calls or letters quickly so your application isn't delayed or denied for a missing document.
- 2
You may have an interview
Medicaid usually doesn't require one, but if you also applied for SNAP (food assistance), an interview is required — often by phone.
- 3
You get a decision
You'll receive a notice saying you're approved (and when coverage starts) or denied (and why). If approved, you'll get a Medicaid card and choose a health plan.
If you're denied, you can appeal
A denial is not the end. You have the right to appeal, and free help is available. 603 Legal Aid handles benefit denials at 1-800-639-5290 (603legalaid.org). Check the denial letter for the appeal deadline and don't miss it.
Where to apply and get help
NH DHHS Customer Service
Apply by phone or get a paper application mailed. Mon–Fri 8am–4pm.
NH 211 — help finding your District Office
Free, 24/7. They can point you to the nearest place to apply in person.
Free help with a denial or appeal
603 Legal Aid — free legal help for benefit denials.
Need help right now?
Call or text 988(Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), or reach NH Rapid Response 24/7 at 833-710-6477. For any emergency, call 911.