📅 2026 Update: Changes to Montana's Social Programs

Since the original article was published, there have been several important updates regarding social programs in Montana. Key changes involve Medicaid and SNAP, which impact many residents seeking assistance. For details on these programs and more, please continue reading further down the page.

🏥 Medicaid Expansion Extension

The Medicaid Expansion in Montana, created under the HELP Act in 2015, has been renewed by the 66th Legislature. It is currently set to continue until June 30, 2025. This extension allows more individuals to access essential health care services.

  • 🩺 Coverage: The expansion helps low-income residents by providing healthcare access.
  • 👩‍⚕️ Eligibility: Residents with incomes below specific thresholds can benefit from this program.

📜 Medicaid 1115 Waiver Extension

In 2023, the Medicaid 1115 Waiver for Additional Services and Populations (WASP) was extended until December 31, 2027. This waiver is crucial for expanding Medicaid coverage.

  • 🧠 Special Populations: It allows individuals with Severe Disabling Mental Illness (SDMI) to receive needed services.
  • 📅 Duration: The extension is effective from January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2027.

💵 SNAP Income Limits

The SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) income limits were updated for 2025-2026.

  • 🏠 Household of One: The gross monthly income limit is $2,660.
  • 👫 Household of Two: The gross monthly income limit is $3,608. This helps families access food assistance.

📞 Application Methods for SNAP and Medicaid

Applying for SNAP and Medicaid has become more accessible.

  • 📱 SNAP Applications: Individuals can now apply online at apply.mt.gov or via the Public Assistance Helpline.
  • 💻 Medicaid Applications: Applications can be submitted online at healthcare.gov or by calling 1-800-318-2596 for assistance.

📅 Medicaid Redetermination Deadline

For those receiving Medicaid, it is essential to complete a redetermination packet within 30 days of receiving it.

  • ❗ Consequences: Failing to do this will result in the loss of Medicaid or Healthy Montana Kids (HMK) coverage.

📌 Key Updates on Social Programs in Montana

  • 🏥 Medicaid Expansion renewed until June 30, 2025.
  • 📜 WASP extended until December 31, 2027, aiding individuals with SDMI.
  • 💵 SNAP income limits updated for households of one ($2,660) and two ($3,608).
  • 📞 New application methods for SNAP and Medicaid.
  • 📅 Medicaid recipients must complete redetermination within 30 days.

💡 Tips for Accessing Social Programs in Montana

It's important to review your situation with an attorney to understand your eligibility for assistance programs.

📝 Understand Income Limits

Be aware of the income limits for Medicaid and SNAP. This helps determine if you qualify for assistance.

📅 Keep Track of Deadlines

Mark your calendar for important deadlines, such as the Medicaid redetermination packet due within 30 days of receipt. Missing these deadlines can lead to loss of coverage.

📞 Use Available Resources

Utilize the Public Assistance Helpline for SNAP or visit local Offices of Public Assistance for in-person assistance. These resources can guide you through the application process.

💻 Apply Online

Consider applying for SNAP and Medicaid online. It's a convenient option that can save time compared to traditional application methods.

📚 Gather Required Documents

Prepare necessary documents before applying for assistance. This may include proof of income, residency, and identification.

🏆 Explore Employment Programs

If you are a SNAP recipient, investigate the SNAP Employment and Training Program. This program can help you find work and achieve your employment goals.

🏆 Free Options Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

No national paid services met the review threshold for social assistance in Montana, so this section focuses on free government and nonprofit resources available to residents.

🥇 1. Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS)

The DPHHS offers essential assistance through the Public Assistance Helpline at 1-888-706-1535.

  • 📞 Support: They provide guidance for SNAP applications and connect individuals to local Offices of Public Assistance.
  • 🏢 Local Help: Residents can visit local offices for in-person assistance with their applications.

🥈 2. CoverMT

CoverMT helps individuals navigate Medicaid applications and provides information about health coverage.

  • 💻 Online Resources: Their website offers tools to assist with applications and eligibility checks for Medicaid.
  • 📞 Helpline: Individuals can call 1-800-318-2596 for direct support and guidance.

🥉 3. Public Assistance Helpline

This helpline is a vital resource for those seeking help with SNAP and other public assistance programs.

  • 📞 Accessibility: Call 1-888-706-1535 for support with applications or to answer any questions regarding eligibility.
  • 🗺️ Local Offices: They can also direct you to nearby Offices of Public Assistance for in-person help.

4️⃣ SNAP Employment and Training Program

This program assists SNAP recipients in finding jobs and gaining employment skills.

  • 🎓 Training and Support: Depending on available funds, the program offers education and training services.
  • 💼 Employment Goals: Participants can access resources to help them achieve and maintain their employment goals.

🔎 What to Check Before Paying for Help

  • 💰 Verify if the service is free or low-cost.
  • 📜 Check for local government assistance programs first.
  • 🗣️ Read reviews and feedback from other users.
  • ❓ Confirm the eligibility criteria for assistance programs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🤔 What is the income limit for Medicaid in Montana in 2026?

For adults aged 19-64, the monthly income limit is $1,769. For children aged 0-18, it's $3,471, and for pregnant women, it's $2,088.

📅 How do I apply for SNAP benefits in Montana?

You can apply for SNAP benefits online at apply.mt.gov, call the Public Assistance Helpline at 1-888-706-1535, or visit a local Office of Public Assistance for assistance.

🏥 What happens if I miss the Medicaid redetermination deadline?

If you miss the deadline to complete the redetermination packet, you will lose your Medicaid or Healthy Montana Kids (HMK) coverage.

📞 How can I get help with my application?

You can call the Public Assistance Helpline at 1-888-706-1535 for guidance on your SNAP or Medicaid application. You can also visit covermt.org for in-person assistance.

🏆 Are there programs to help SNAP recipients find jobs?

Yes, the SNAP Employment and Training Program provides support to participants in achieving and maintaining employment goals through education and training services.

📜 Where can I find more information about Montana's social programs?

For detailed information, you can visit the websites of the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services or covermt.org, which offer resources and guidance for various social programs.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Social Programs

Recent court rulings have addressed issues concerning Medicaid and SNAP eligibility in Montana. These cases highlight the ongoing legal landscape affecting residents who rely on these essential programs.

Feel free to explore more rulings on the news page for further updates and recent developments.

End of October 2026 Update





The Montana Legislature is the legislative body within the state government of Montana. The Montana Legislature, which is also known as the Montana State Legislature, is a bicameral legislature, much like the legislatures of the vast majority of states and of the United States itself.

The Montana Legislature is made up of the Montana House of Representatives, which is the lower of the two houses of the Montana Legislature, and the Montana Senate, which is the upper of the two houses of the Montana Legislature. The Montana Legislature is made up of 150 members, with 100 members of the Montana Legislature belonging to the Montana House of Representatives, and 50 members of the Montana Legislature belonging to the Montana Senate. 

Members of the Montana Legislature have a term limit of 8 years, though this may vary in exact number of terms between the upper and lower houses. This is a consecutive term limit, however, which means that members of the Montana Legislature may attempt to rejoin the Montana Legislature after they have left and remained outside of office for a certain number of years, even if they have already served a full 8 years in the Montana Legislature.

Montana Legislature

The Montana Legislature has its purpose defined within the Montana Constitution, which sets out that purpose as defining a budget for two years. The current Montana Constitution defining the Montana Legislature was passed in 1972. The Montana Legislature meets in Helena, Montana, at the Montana State Capitol.