An EDG number is your unique identifier within your state's Medicaid system

An EDG number (sometimes called an EDG ID) is a case number assigned to you by your state Medicaid agency. It tracks your Medicaid account and connects all your information—income, household members, medical coverage dates, and benefit history—in one place. When you contact your state Medicaid office or a caseworker, they use this number to pull up your file when ready instead of searching by name.

Each state runs its own Medicaid program, so your EDG number is specific to that state. If you move to another state, you do not carry the number with you. The number itself is usually a string of digits, sometimes with letters, and appears on your Medicaid card, approval letters, and any notices the state sends you.

You do not request an EDG number—the state assigns it automatically when your Medicaid account is created. It exists whether you are currently covered or not, and the state keeps the record on file even if your coverage lapses and you reapply later.

Key Takeaways

  • Your EDG number is assigned by your state Medicaid agency and appears on your Medicaid card and approval letters.
  • The number connects your income, household information, and coverage history in your state's system so caseworkers can find your file quickly.
  • Each state assigns its own EDG numbers, so the number does not transfer if you move.
  • You can find your EDG number on any official Medicaid document your state has sent you, or by calling your state Medicaid office directly.

Where to find your EDG number

Your EDG number appears on your Medicaid card in the upper right or left corner, depending on your state's card design. It is also printed on any approval letter, renewal notice, or denial letter the state has mailed to you. If you have lost these documents, you can call your state Medicaid office and provide your name, date of birth, and address—a caseworker will look up your account and read the number to you over the phone.

Some states also display your EDG number in their online Medicaid portal if you have created an account. Log in with your username and password, navigate to your account or case information section, and the number should appear near your name and household details.

Why caseworkers ask for your EDG number

When you call your state Medicaid office or visit in person, staff may ask for your EDG number before they help you. Providing it saves time because the caseworker can pull your entire file in seconds instead of searching through thousands of accounts by name alone. This is especially useful if your name is common or if you have moved and the address on file is outdated.

You are not required to have the number memorized or on hand when you contact the office—caseworkers can still find your account using your name and date of birth. But having it ready speeds up the process, particularly if you are calling during busy periods when wait times are long.

What your EDG number does and does not do

Your EDG number is purely an organizational tool. It does not determine whether you are covered, how much you pay, or what services you receive. Those decisions depend on your income, household size, age, disability status, and other factors your state evaluates. The EDG number straightforward keeps that information organized in one file.

The number also does not follow you between states. If you move from one state to another, you will need to explore for Medicaid in your new state, and you will receive a new EDG number. Your old number remains in your original state's system but has no connection to your new coverage.

How to use your EDG number when contacting Medicaid

When you call your state Medicaid office, have your EDG number ready and mention it early in the conversation. You can say, "My EDG number is [number]" right after you explain why you are calling. This helps the caseworker locate your file before asking follow-up questions.

If you are visiting a Medicaid office in person, bring a document with your EDG number printed on it—your Medicaid card or a recent letter from the state. This allows the staff member to verify your identity and pull your file without delay. If you do not have the number, bring your ID and proof of address instead, and the office will look you up by name.

EDG numbers and privacy

Your EDG number is not secret, but it is tied to your personal Medicaid information. Do not share it with people you do not trust. If someone calls claiming to be from Medicaid and asks for your EDG number, verify their identity first by hanging up and calling your state Medicaid office directly using the phone number on your card or a recent letter. Legitimate caseworkers will never pressure you to give information over the phone without confirming who you are.

Your state keeps your EDG number and all associated information confidential under federal privacy laws. The state does not sell your information or share it with third parties without your permission, except as required by law for purposes like child support enforcement or fraud investigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I cannot find my EDG number?

Call your state Medicaid office and provide your full name, date of birth, and current address. A caseworker will look up your account and give you the number. You can also visit a local Medicaid office in person with your ID and they will provide it on the spot.

Do I need my EDG number to renew my Medicaid?

No. You can renew using your name, date of birth, and address. Having your EDG number makes the process faster, but it is not required. If you receive a renewal notice in the mail, it will have your EDG number printed on it.

Will my EDG number change if my coverage is denied or ends?

No. Your EDG number stays the same even if your coverage lapses. If you reapply later, the state will use the same number to reopen your account and pull your history. The number is tied to you, not to your current coverage status.

Can I use my EDG number from another state?

No. Each state assigns its own EDG numbers within its own system. If you move, you will receive a new number from your new state's Medicaid program. The old number has no meaning outside your original state.

What should I do if someone asks for my EDG number over the phone?

Verify who is calling before you share any information. Hang up and call your state Medicaid office directly using the number on your card or a recent letter. Legitimate caseworkers understand that you need to confirm their identity and will not be offended by this step.