New York Medicaid Food Benefits

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the new Medicaid grocery benefit?

  The Medicaid grocery benefit is part of a program designed to help eligible Medicaid members access nutrition support and other services that can improve health and well-being.

  If you qualify, you may be able to receive weekly grocery voucher credits to shop online through Mercato at participating local stores.

• How does the process work?

  First, complete the short pre-screening form on this page. We’ll ask a few questions to help determine whether you may be eligible based on your Medicaid enrollment and where you live.

  If your responses indicate that you may qualify, we’ll provide the phone number to call for the next step.

  You’ll be connected with a screening organization through your Social Care Network. They will complete your official eligibility assessment and confirm whether you qualify for services.

  If you’re approved, you may be eligible to receive nutrition services through Mercato, including groceries, meals, nutrition counseling, and/or cooking supplies and appliances.

  Please note: Completing this form does not guarantee enrollment. Final eligibility is determined through the official eligibility assessment.

• Who may qualify?

  You may qualify if you:

  • Are enrolled in Medicaid
  • Live in an area where the benefit is available
  • Complete an eligibility assessment
  • Meet the program’s health-related social needs criteria

  The pre-screening form on this page can help determine whether you may be eligible to take the next step.

• What nutrition services may be available through Mercato?

  If you’re approved through the official eligibility assessment, you may be eligible to receive nutrition services through Mercato, including groceries, meals, nutrition counseling, and/or cooking supplies and appliances.

  Available services may vary based on your eligibility, location, health plan, and program requirements.

• Is there a cost to me?

  If you qualify for the benefit, eligible services are provided at no cost to you.

• What can I buy with the grocery voucher credits?

  If approved, you may be able to use weekly voucher credits toward eligible groceries from participating stores on Mercato.com or the Mercato app.

  Program rules may determine which items are eligible.

• Do I need to already use Mercato?

  No. If you qualify for the benefit, you’ll receive instructions on how to use Mercato.com or the Mercato app to shop from participating local stores.

• Does this replace my current Medicaid benefits?

  No. This program does not replace your Medicaid coverage or other benefits you may receive, such as SNAP, WIC, or other programs. It may provide additional support if you qualify.

• Is my information private?

  Your information will be used to help determine whether you may be eligible for the program and to guide you to the correct next step. Your information should only be shared as permitted by law and with appropriate consent.