Consumers for Affordable Health Care

Health Care for Kids & Caretakers
Many children in Maine have gone without health care such as basic preventive measures like annual checkups, vaccinations and visits to the dentist. Lawmakers at both the Federal and state level who know how important early access to health care is, have expanded programs to help families get their children to the doctor.
Last updated in April 2008.

Free MaineCare and Low-Cost MaineCare (formerly Cub Care) are programs offered by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for children under 19 at a wide variety of income levels (children age 19 and 20 may also be eligible for Free MaineCare ). A family of three, for instance, can earn up to $2,934 a month and still qualify for Low-cost MaineCare. (See income charts below)

Families that qualify for Free MaineCare coverage do not to have to pay any monthly premium. Families with higher income may qualify for Low-cost MaineCare, with a small monthly premium. The charge is from $8 to a maximum of $64 per month, depending on income and family size. Both Free MaineCare and Low-cost MaineCare offer the same great health benefits, including doctors visits, hospitalization, prescription drugs, immunizations, therapies and much more!

2008 Monthly Income Limits:
Low-cost MaineCare
for Kids & Parents

2008 Monthly Income Limits:
Free MaineCare
for Kids & Parents

Family Size		Income

	.
1	.	$1,734
2	.	$2,334
3	.	$2,934
4		$3,534
5		$4,134
6	.	$4,734
	.

Family Size		Income

	.
1	.	$1,300
2	.	$1,750
3	.	$2,200
4		$2,650
5		$3,100
6	.	$3,550
	.

There is a simple, two-page application that is easy to fill out and can be mailed to DHHS. You do not have to go to a DHHS office to apply. To get an application, call 1-800-965-7476, or use the printable application available on the DHHS web site. You need to mail or drop off your completed application at the local DHHS office. [See complete listing of DHHS offices with addresses and phone numbers].

When determining MaineCare eligibility for kids, only family income is considered. For Parents or Adults without children in the home, there are asset guidelines that will also apply. Many assets like your home, vehicles, etc. do not count against you. For more information on asset guidelines for Parents, call our Consumer Assistance HelpLine at 1-800-965-7476.

When you apply, you will need to send pay stubs of other proof to document your last four weeks of income. If you are self-employed you will have to send in your last years tax returns including Schedule C - or more current records (a ledger) if your income has changed much from the year before.. DHHS will send you a letter in a few weeks to let you know if you qualify, or if they need additional information.

If you have questions, or are unsure whether you qualify, call our Consumer Assistance HelpLine at 1-800-965-7476. We can answer your questions, and you will receive helpful and friendly advice. This number is not a DHHS office, and no information will be given out without your consent. We can help you fill out the application.

DENIED COVERAGE?
If your application is not approved, you have the right to appeal by calling your local DHHS office and asking for a Fair Hearing. It is a good idea to make your appeal in writing as well.
Call us at 1-800-965-7476 if you need assistance.

Other things you should know about MaineCare and Cub Care

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