Medicaid Changes
New Medicaid requirements will begin in 2027 and may affect your coverage.
Requirements, exemptions and implementation dates may vary based on your state and individual circumstances.
Here's what to do now:
- Know what's changing: Learn about the nationwide Medicaid changes and when they take effect.
- Find your state: Your state determines your requirements and exemptions and how to complete and report them in order to keep coverage.
- Watch your mail: Make sure your contact information up-to-date and read all notices or communications from your state Medicaid agency.
- Know your deadline: Changes will take affect at different times. Review the dates that apply to you and take action before your deadline.
What Is Changing?
A new federal law (the One Big Beautiful Bill Act) and new state laws are changing Medicaid requirements (including work or "community engagement" requirements), exemptions and how eligibility is reviewed.
These changes may affect how some people qualify for or keep Medicaid coverage. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to meet new requirements or report information to the state. If you no longer qualify for Medicaid, you may need to explore other coverage options.
Not everyone will be affected the same way. Your state and individual circumstances determine which requirements apply to you.
Important Dates
Changes will take effect at different times. Your state Medicaid agency will notify you if a change affects your coverage or if you need to take action.
Your state may have additional deadlines. After reviewing the nationwide dates below, please select your state to find the deadlines that apply to you.
Date | What happens | What you need to do |
October 2026 | New Medicaid applications must satisfy work requirements for approval unless the applicant is exempt. | Watch for a notice from your state Medicaid agency with your work-requirement status. Report Medicaid requirements and documentation or confirm an exemption with your state by the date listed. |
November 1 - December 15, 2026 | The ACA Open Enrollment Period allows you to sign up for a health insurance plan through the federal or state Marketplace. | If you think you may not meet the Medicaid work requirements or qualify for an exemption, call The WellFund at 812-329-2579 to explore Marketplace coverage options. |
January 1, 2027 |
| Watch for continuing notices from your state Medicaid agency. Report exemptions, qualifying activities or eligibility reviews as required. |
Find Your State
Your state determines how changes in Medicaid will be implemented and how you can complete any required actions.
Select your state to learn:
- What requirements apply to you
- Who may be exempt
- Important state deadlines
- How to report or verify your information
- What you can do to maintain your coverage
- What to do if you lose Medicaid
What You Can Do Now
Even if the changes do not take effect right away, there are steps you can take now to prepare.
1. Know Your Coverage & Learn Your State's Requirements
Make sure you know what Medicaid program you have and when you need to renew your coverage. Find your state above to learn what requirements and exemptions may apply to you.
2. Keep Your Information Up to Date
Make sure your Medicaid agency has your current mailing address, phone number and other contact information so you don't miss important notices.
3. Watch for Notices
Read letters, emails or other communications from your state Medicaid agency. They may include important information about your eligibility or required actions.
4. Take Action Before Your Deadline
If you are required to report information, provide documents, renew your coverage or complete another action, don't wait until the deadline. Confirming your status early gives you time to fix any problems before your coverage is affected.
Worried You Might Lose Medicaid? The WellFund Can Help.
If you think you may no longer qualify for Medicaid because of the new work requirements, please contact The WellFund. We can help you understand your options and, if you do lose Medicaid coverage, help you enroll through the Health Insurance Marketplace and explore any premium assistance you may qualify for.
Call The WellFund at 812-329-2579, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or email us at Deaconess@TheWellFund.org. We strongly encourage you to call if you have questions or need help. There is no charge for this service.
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