How to apply for Vermont Medicaid

Last verified: June 2026

Ways to apply for Vermont Medicaid

Special pathways for specific groups

Vermont has separate Medicaid pathways for older adults and people with disabilities. These are not handled through Vermont Health Connect's standard MAGI process.

• Seniors and people with disabilities (MABD — Medicaid for the Aged, Blind and Disabled): apply through DVHA, not Vermont Health Connect. Visit dvha.vermont.gov/members/medicaid/medicaid-aged-blind-or-disabled-mabd.
• Long-term care (Choices for Care): apply through DVHA. Visit dvha.vermont.gov/members/long-term-care.
• Medicare Savings Programs (help with Medicare costs): apply through DVHA. Visit dvha.vermont.gov/members/medicare-savings-program.
• Non-citizens: DVHA has a specific information page for non-citizens at dvha.vermont.gov/information-for-non-citizens.

Source: DVHA Apply page (dvha.vermont.gov/apply). Call 1-855-899-9600 if you are unsure which pathway applies to your situation.

After you apply

Vermont Health Connect processes most Medicaid applications within 45 days. If your eligibility can be confirmed immediately through federal data sources (income verification, citizenship), you may receive a determination faster. Vermont has invested in ex parte renewal and real-time data matching to reduce paperwork for applicants.

If you disagree with an eligibility decision, you can request an appeal. Vermont calls this a "Fair Hearing." Information on fair hearings is at dvha.vermont.gov/members/appeals-and-fair-hearings. If you have a complaint that doesn't involve an eligibility decision, you can file a grievance through the same page.

What documents you'll need

Gather these before starting your application. Having them ready prevents delays caused by missing information requests, which can add weeks to the review.

• Proof of identity — driver's license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate
• Proof of residency in Vermont — utility bill, lease, or official mail with your address
• Social Security numbers for all household members applying
• Proof of income for the past 30 days — pay stubs, employer letter, or benefit award letters
• Tax filing information if self-employed — prior year return is typically acceptable
• Immigration documents if applicable — green card, visa, or I-94 arrival/departure record
• Health insurance information if you currently have coverage through an employer or other source

Not every document is required for every applicant. The application will specify what Vermont Medicaid (Green Mountain Care) needs based on your household composition.

The application process, step by step

1. 1

   Gather your documents

   Collect proof of identity, residency, income, and household composition before you start. Having everything ready means you can complete the application in one sitting.

2. 2

   Submit the application

   Apply through your preferred method — online is fastest. The application asks about income, household size, citizenship status, and whether anyone in the household has other insurance. Answer completely to avoid requests for more information.

3. 3

   Respond to any follow-up requests

   Vermont Medicaid (Green Mountain Care) may request additional documents or clarification. Respond promptly — delays in providing information can pause or restart the review clock.

4. 4

   Receive your eligibility notice

   The agency will send a written notice of approval or denial. If approved, the notice will state your coverage start date and what benefits you're eligible for.

What to expect after you apply

Under 42 CFR 435.912, states must process most Medicaid applications within 45 days of receipt. Applications based on disability take up to 90 days. If Vermont hasn't issued a decision by those deadlines, the agency must notify you in writing with the reason for delay.

Medicaid coverage typically starts on the first day of the month in which you applied, assuming you're determined eligible. In some cases — particularly for pregnant women — retroactive coverage going back up to three months may apply if you received qualifying medical services during that period.

Keep your contact information updated while your application is pending. A notice sent to an old address counts as received.

If your application is denied

A denial notice must state the specific reason and your right to appeal. You have the right to request a fair hearing — typically within 90 days of the denial notice — where you can present evidence and contest the decision before an impartial hearing officer.

Common denial reasons include income above the limit, failure to verify documents within the required timeframe, or a missing signature. Many denials can be resolved by reapplying with the correct documentation.