Free health insurance

Could you qualify for free health insurance?

Three questions, about 30 seconds. We estimate what you may qualify for and link you to the official application. Only your state or the marketplace can decide.

Medicaid · often $0CHIP for kidsMarketplace discounts

Free coverage finderEstimate only · not sent to FreeDoc

1 Who needs coverage?

2 Where do you live, and how many people are in your household?

Count yourself, your spouse, and anyone you claim on your taxes.

3 What is your household income before taxes?

A best guess is fine. No job right now? Enter 0.

Your answers are calculated in your browser and are not sent to FreeDoc. This is an estimate only, and your state or the marketplace makes the final decision.

Need coverage today?

Other plans from third parties

If free coverage is not an option, these third-party sites offer other types of plans. FreeDoc does not sell, recommend, or endorse any plan, so compare the details yourself.

Third-party siteShort-term health planseHealthA third-party site for comparing short-term plans. Check plan limits and state availability before you buy.See plans →Third-party siteShort-term medicalPivot HealthA third-party short-term medical plan provider. Short-term plans are not available in every state.See plans →Third-party siteDental savings plansDentalPlans.comA third-party dental savings plan marketplace. Discount plans are not insurance.See plans →Third-party siteVision insuranceVSP IndividualA third-party provider of individual vision plans for eye exams, glasses, and contacts.See plans →

FreeDoc may earn a referral fee when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Short-term plans and discount plans are not ACA-compliant health insurance: they can exclude pre-existing conditions, limit benefits, and are not available in every state. Check free options above first.

No insurance yet

Free or low-cost care right now

Community health centers

Federally funded health centers offer care on a sliding fee scale based on income. Insurance is not required.

Free hospital care

Nonprofit hospitals are required to have financial assistance policies, and some Hill-Burton facilities offer free or reduced-cost care. Ask before you pay.

Free symptom check

Not sure where to go? FreeDoc’s AI suggests a care level in about 60 seconds. It is not medical advice.

Questions

Common questions

Is Medicaid really free?

Often, yes. Medicaid usually has no monthly premium, and visits and prescriptions often cost little or nothing. Some states charge small copays or premiums.

Can I apply outside Open Enrollment?

Yes for Medicaid and CHIP, which accept applications all year. Marketplace Open Enrollment generally runs November 1 to January 15, and a life change such as losing job-based coverage, moving, marrying, or having a baby may let you enroll outside that window.

I lost my job. What should I do?

Consider applying soon. Losing job-based coverage usually opens a 60-day window to enroll in a marketplace plan, and if your income dropped, you may now qualify for Medicaid.

What is a short-term plan?

A short-term plan is limited coverage that is not ACA-compliant health insurance. It can refuse pre-existing conditions, cap what it pays, and is limited or not sold in some states. Read the terms carefully.

I have no insurance and need care today.

Community health centers offer care on a sliding fee scale by income. Nonprofit hospitals are required to have financial assistance policies, so ask for an application before you pay a bill. If it is an emergency, call 911. Under federal law, hospital ERs must screen and stabilize you regardless of your ability to pay.

Estimates use the 2026 federal poverty guidelines and general program rules, which change often. Medicaid rules differ by state, and only your state or the marketplace can decide eligibility. FreeDoc is not a government agency, an insurance company, or a licensed insurance agent or broker, and it is not affiliated with Medicaid, CHIP, Medicare, CMS, or HealthCare.gov. Applying through official government sites is free. This page is general information, not insurance, tax, or legal advice.