Your Loved One Doesn't Have Medicaid Yet? Here's How to Apply

Why Medicaid comes first

Michigan's Home Help Program and MI Coordinated Health are both Medicaid programs — so the person you care for needs Michigan Medicaid before you can be approved to get paid as their caregiver. Kinwell doesn't handle that application; it goes directly through the state.

How to apply for Michigan Medicaid

The state offers a few ways to apply:

• Online through MI Bridges. This is Michigan's official benefits portal for applying to Medicaid and other assistance programs.
• In person or by phone at the local MDHHS office. MI Bridges includes a tool to find the MDHHS office by county.
• With help from a Navigation Partner. MI Bridges connects you with local organizations that offer one-on-one help completing the application.

What happens after they're approved

Once your loved one has Michigan Medicaid, come back to Kinwell and check your eligibility — it takes about 2 minutes, and there's no cost to you or your family, ever. Check your eligibility →

Frequently asked

Does my loved one need Medicaid before I can get paid as their caregiver? Yes — Michigan's Home Help Program and MI Coordinated Health both require the person receiving care to have Michigan Medicaid. Once they're enrolled, you can check your eligibility to get paid as their caregiver.

How does my loved one apply for Michigan Medicaid? The official way to apply is through MI Bridges, the state's benefits portal. Applications can also be submitted in person or by phone through the local MDHHS office.

Can Kinwell apply for Medicaid on my loved one's behalf? No — the Medicaid application itself is handled directly through the state (MI Bridges or the local MDHHS office), not through Kinwell. Once your loved one is approved, come back and check your eligibility with Kinwell.

Related reading

• Medicaid Family Caregiver Pay in Michigan: The Complete Guide
• Home Care for Your Loved One: What Actually Changes
• Full FAQ