Medicaid Coverage in Kansas — Who Qualifies, What’s Included, and How to Apply

Medicaid in Kansas—known as KanCare—provides crucial healthcare coverage to low-income individuals, families, seniors, and people with disabilities. Understanding how KanCare works can help ensure you receive the benefits you're entitled to while protecting your assets and health.

This guide covers:

• Who qualifies for KanCare

• What services it includes

• How to apply

• How to maintain coverage

• Where to get professional help

Who Is Eligible for Medicaid in Kansas?

KanCare eligibility depends on income, household size, and medical or disability status. Let’s look at the core groups:

Children & Teens

• Income up to 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)

• Coverage includes wellness visits, immunizations, dental, and more

Adults (Parents & Caregivers)

• Income up to 38% of FPL

• Must have dependent children

• Kansas has not expanded Medicaid for low-income adults without children

Pregnant Individuals

• Income up to 171% of FPL

• Coverage extends through pregnancy and 12 months postpartum

Seniors (65+) & People with Disabilities

• Subject to income and asset tests

• Countable assets must be under $2,000 (for an individual)

• Income limits vary, but must be less than the cost of care.

• May qualify for HCBS (Home & Community-Based Services) waivers or nursing facility care

Not sure if you qualify? Advanced Legal Planning can help you assess eligibility and organize documentation.

What Does KanCare Cover?

KanCare delivers robust healthcare coverage through three managed care organizations (MCOs). All services are provided at little or no cost to eligible residents.

Core Medical Services:

• Doctor visits and primary care

• Specialist referrals

• Hospital stays

• Emergency care

• Laboratory tests and imaging

• Prescription medications

Behavioral Health & Addiction Services:

• Counseling and therapy

• Psychiatric evaluations

• Substance use disorder treatment

• Crisis services

Dental and Vision (especially for children):

• Exams, cleanings, fillings

• Eye exams and glasses for children

• Some emergency dental for adults

Long-Term Care & In-Home Support:

• Nursing home care

• Home-based personal care

• Adult day health services

• Respite for caregivers

• Supported living for people with disabilities

Additional Support:

• Transportation to medical appointments

• Case management and care coordination

• Durable medical equipment (e.g. walkers, wheelchairs)

You can find a full breakdown at the KanCare Covered Services page. Or consult Advanced Legal Planning if you need help understanding your benefits or filing a denial appeal.

How Do I Apply for Medicaid in Kansas?

Applying for KanCare is straightforward—but errors can cause costly delays. Here's how to apply:

Apply Online:

Use the KanCare Consumer Portal

Apply by Phone:

Call the KanCare Clearinghouse at 1-800-792-4884

Apply by Mail or Fax:

Download the application and submit it to the address or fax listed on the form

Apply In Person:

Visit your local Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) office

What You’ll Need:

• Social Security number

• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)

• ID (driver’s license, passport)

• Proof of Kansas residency

• Documentation of medical or disability status (if applicable)

Need guidance? Advanced Legal Planning helps individuals and families complete Medicaid applications correctly, avoiding rejection or delays.

Medicaid Redetermination in Kansas

Medicaid is not a one-time process. Redetermination (renewal) must occur annually to keep coverage active.

If you miss your renewal window or forget to update your information, your benefits could be terminated—even if you’re still eligible.

To avoid losing coverage:

• Open all mail from KanCare or DCF

• Complete renewal forms on time

• Update your address and phone number

• Check your online KanCare portal regularly

If you’ve lost coverage or received a denial, Advanced Legal Planning can help you appeal or re-enroll quickly.

Long-Term Care & Medicaid Planning

KanCare is one of the few programs that cover long-term care, including nursing home and in-home care. But qualifying comes with complex financial rules:

Key Factors:

• Income limits (approx. $1,215/month for individuals)

• Asset limits ($2,000 for an individual)

• 5-Year Lookback Period on asset transfers

• Potential penalties for gifts or property transfers

If you or a loved one needs nursing home care now—or might in the next few years—start planning today.

Advanced Legal Planning can help you:

• Protect your home and savings

• Qualify for Medicaid without financial hardship

• Set up spousal protections or Medicaid-compliant annuities

• Navigate HCBS waiver eligibility

Medicare + Medicaid (Dual Eligibility)

If you already have Medicare, you may also qualify for KanCare through dual eligibility. This status provides additional help for seniors and people with disabilities.

Dual-Eligible Benefits Include:

• Medicaid pays Medicare Part B premiums

• Reduced prescription costs

• Help with co-pays and deductibles

• Coverage for long-term care that Medicare doesn’t cover

Advanced Legal Planning can help you determine if you’re eligible and what combination of coverage makes the most financial sense.

Final Thoughts

KanCare is a vital safety net for thousands of Kansas residents. But navigating applications, understanding eligibility, and protecting assets can be overwhelming.

If you're confused by redetermination, long-term care rules, or simply want to ensure you qualify while preserving your financial legacy, turn to Advanced Legal Planning.

They’ll help you:

• Apply correctly

• Preserve assets

• Qualify for long-term care

• Avoid common pitfalls