How to apply for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) for people 65+, blind, or disabled
Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing
Who it's for
Health First Colorado is Colorado's Medicaid program. It pays for doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and long-term care supports. For people 65 and older or who are blind or have a disability, the 2026 monthly income limit is $994 for one person or $1,491 for a couple (the SSI level), and countable resources must be $2,000 or less for one person or $3,000 for a couple. People who get SSI qualify automatically. Apply online through Colorado PEAK or at the county human services office.
Income is counted after small disregards (such as $20 of unearned income), so people slightly above the listed amount may still qualify. People with higher income who need nursing-home-level care may qualify through the long-term care or waiver path (up to $2,982 a month). The county human services office makes the final decision.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Find my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Proof of income
- Proof of assets
- Identification and residency documents
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-800-221-3943
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Health First Colorado (Medicaid) for people 65+, blind, or disabled. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of income, proof of assets, identification and residency documents — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
annual
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.