Those with financial challenges may be concerned about obtaining a passport. Fortunately, there are avenues to secure a passport even with limited financial means. Individuals who qualify for and receive Medicaid may be able to acquire a passport at no cost. Medicaid eligibility often extends to coverage for passport application fees, alleviating the financial burden. To take advantage of this potential benefit, you’ll need to present your Medicaid card and supporting documentation at the passport acceptance facility. Confirming your Medicaid eligibility beforehand ensures a smooth application process.
Medicaid Eligibility for Free Passport
To qualify for a free passport under Medicaid, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or a U.S. national.
- Be eligible for Medicaid benefits.
- Be traveling for medical treatment, to visit a hospitalized family member, or to attend a funeral.
Passport Fees
The U.S. Department of State charges the following fees for passports:
| Passport Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Passport Book | $130 |
| Passport Card | $60 |
| Passport Book and Card | $190 |
If you are eligible for a free passport under Medicaid, you will not have to pay these fees.
How to Apply for a Free Passport with Medicaid
To apply for a free passport with Medicaid, you will need to gather the following documents:
- A completed passport application form (DS-11).
- A photocopy of your Medicaid card.
- A letter from your doctor or other medical provider stating that you are traveling for medical treatment, to visit a hospitalized family member, or to attend a funeral.
- Two passport photos that meet the U.S. Department of State’s requirements.
Once you have gathered all of the required documents, you can apply for your passport in person at a passport acceptance facility. You can find a passport acceptance facility near you by visiting the U.S. Department of State’s website.
If you are approved for a free passport, you will receive your passport in the mail within 4 to 6 weeks.
Free or Reduced-Cost Passports for Low-Income Individuals
If you’re a low-income individual or family, you may be eligible for a free or reduced-cost passport. The U.S. Department of State offers a fee waiver program that allows certain individuals to apply for a passport without paying the standard application fee.
Eligibility
To be eligible for a fee waiver, you must meet the following requirements:
– Be a U.S. citizen.
– Have a valid Social Security number.
– Be one of the following:
– Receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
– Receiving Medicaid.
– Participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
- Receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
– Be a member of a federally recognized tribe or Alaska Native village.
– Be a veteran with a service-connected disability.
How to Apply
To apply for a fee waiver, you will need to submit the following forms:
– Form DS-11, Application for a U.S. Passport.
– Form DS-4085, Application for Passport Fee Waiver.
– Proof of eligibility, such as a copy of your Social Security award letter, Medicaid card, or SNAP benefit letter.
You can submit your application in person at a passport acceptance facility or by mail. If you are applying by mail, you will need to include a check or money order for the $35 application fee. However, if you are eligible for a fee waiver, you will not have to pay this fee.
Processing Time
The processing time for a passport application is typically 4-6 weeks. However, if you are applying for a fee waiver, the processing time may be longer.
Additional Information
For more information about the passport fee waiver program, you can visit the U.S. Department of State’s website or contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
| Category | Requirements |
|---|---|
| SSI | Receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) |
| Medicaid | Receiving Medicaid |
| SNAP | Participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) |
| TANF | Receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) |
| Tribal Member | Member of a federally recognized tribe or Alaska Native village |
| Veteran | Veteran with a service-connected disability |
Applying for a Passport with Medicaid
Individuals who receive Medicaid benefits may be eligible for a free or discounted passport. The United States Department of State offers a fee waiver program for certain individuals, including those who receive Medicaid.
To apply for a passport with Medicaid, you will need to provide documentation of your Medicaid eligibility. This documentation can include a Medicaid card, a letter from your state Medicaid agency, or a Social Security Administration (SSA) award letter.
You can apply for a passport with Medicaid in person at a passport acceptance facility or by mail. If you apply in person, you will need to bring your Medicaid documentation and a completed passport application (Form DS-11). If you apply by mail, you will need to send your Medicaid documentation, a completed passport application, and a check or money order for the passport fee. The passport fee is reduced for individuals who receive Medicaid.
The processing time for a passport application is typically 4-6 weeks. However, you may be able to expedite the processing time by paying an additional fee.
Eligibility Requirements
- U.S. citizen
- 16 years of age or older
- Receive Medicaid benefits
Documentation Required
- Completed passport application (Form DS-11)
- Proof of Medicaid eligibility
- Two passport photos
- Government-issued ID
Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Passport book | $130 ($110 for individuals who receive Medicaid) |
| Passport card | $60 ($45 for individuals who receive Medicaid) |
| Expedited processing | $60 |
Can You Get a Passport if You Have Medicaid?
No, having Medicaid does not guarantee a free passport. However, there are ways to obtain a passport at a reduced cost or for free if you meet specific criteria.
Alternative Methods of Obtaining a Passport
- Apply for a Fee Waiver: If you meet certain income eligibility criteria, you can apply for a fee waiver to cover the cost of your passport application.
- Obtain a Passport Through a Social Service Agency: Some social service agencies may be able to provide assistance in obtaining a passport for free or at a reduced cost.
- Check with Your Local Library or Community Center: Some libraries and community centers may offer passport application services at a reduced cost.
- Apply for a Reduced-Fee Passport: If you are unable to obtain a free passport, you may be eligible for a reduced-fee passport.
| Passport Type | Regular Fee | Reduced-Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Passport Book | $130 | $80 |
| Passport Card | $30 | $15 |
To learn more about how to obtain a passport or apply for a fee waiver, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website or contact the National Passport Information Center.