How to apply for Virginia Medicaid

Last verified: June 2026

How to apply for Virginia Medicaid

The Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) accepts applications through four channels. Online through CommonHelp is the fastest method. Per DMAS guidance at dmas.virginia.gov, all methods are equally valid — the right choice depends on your situation.

What you need to apply

DMAS verifies identity, residency, income, and immigration status for applicable household members. Have these items available before starting your CommonHelp application.

• Full legal name and date of birth for everyone applying
• Social Security numbers — or document numbers for non-citizen legal immigrants
• Proof of Virginia residency — utility bill, lease agreement, or official mail with current address
• Income documentation for the past 30 days — recent pay stubs, employer letter, or tax return if self-employed
• Policy numbers for any current health insurance coverage
• Immigration documents if applicable — green card, visa, I-94, or Employment Authorization Document
• Information about job-related health insurance available to any household member

Not all documents are required for every applicant. CommonHelp specifies what the local DSS office needs based on household composition. In some cases, DMAS verifies income electronically through state wage records.

How long does a Virginia Medicaid application take?

Under 42 CFR 435.912, Virginia must process most Medicaid applications within 45 days. Applications based on disability may take up to 90 days. If you apply online through CommonHelp, you may receive a preliminary eligibility determination faster — sometimes within minutes for straightforward cases.

Coverage starts on the first day of the month you applied, assuming you are approved. Pregnant women may qualify for retroactive coverage going back up to three months before the application date.

If DMAS sends a request for additional information, respond as quickly as possible. The clock for the 45-day decision period does not stop during this time. Respond online at CommonHelp or by email to verify_docs@coverva.org; do not mail documents unless instructed.

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 Virginia — 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 Virginia Medicaid 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

   Virginia Medicaid 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 Virginia 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.