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Are DACA individuals eligible for Medicaid, CHIP or the Marketplace ?

Information for individuals with DACA status on current eligibility for health coverage and where to find affordable or free care through community clinics, state programs, and verified national resources.

Sam avatar
Written by Sam
Updated over 2 weeks ago

As of now, individuals with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status are not eligible for Medicaid, CHIP, or Marketplace coverage through HealthSherpa or HealthCare.gov.

What coverage options may be available

Even though DACA recipients aren’t eligible for federal Marketplace or Medicaid programs, they may still be able to:

  • Purchase private health insurance directly through an insurance company or broker (without Marketplace savings).

  • Access care through community health centers or local clinics that offer low-cost or sliding-scale services.

  • Apply for state or local programs if they live in a state with special coverage for DACA recipients or other noncitizens.

Need help finding care?

Here is a list of low-cost or free resources you can access even without health insurance:

If you’re unsure what options are available where you live, our Consumer Advocate team can help. Call 855-772-2663, Monday–Friday, 6am–4pm PT.

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