Changes to Medicaid Coverage Starting January 2027

What's New?

Starting January 1, 2027, some people who have Medicaid coverage will need to show they are working, going to school, helping out in the community, or participating in job training to keep their health coverage. This is a new federal rule from the government called "Medicaid Work Requirements."  

If this rule affects you, you'll need to do 80 hours of approved activities each month.

You can do these things to meet the requirements: 

  • Work at least 80 hours per month at a job where you get paid
  • Earn income of $580 per month
  • Go to school at least half-time
  • Join a job training or work program
  • Volunteer or help out in your community
  • A combination of any of the above activities


Will This Rule Affect Me?

This rule is for adults who have Medicaid coverage. But many people do not have to follow this rule, including people who are: 

  • 18 years old or younger
  • 65 years old or older
  • Pregnant, or were pregnant in the last 12 months
  • Enrolled in Medicaid due to a disability
  • Diagnosed with a physical or mental health condition that makes it hard to work
  • Enrolled in or entitled to Medicare Part A or Part B
  • American Indian or Alaska Native
  • A parent, guardian, or caregiver to a disabled individual
  • A parent, guardian, or caretaker to a child under 14
  • Enrolled in SNAP or TANF and meeting respective SNAP/TANF work requirements  
  • In a program to help with drug or alcohol use
  • Currently in jail or prison, or released in the last 90 days
  • In or were in foster care and are under 26
  • A veteran with a total disability ​

Important Note: You may need to meet certain conditions or show proof that you fit one of these exceptions when you renew your Medicaid coverage. 

 

What Should I Do Now?

Before this rule starts, we will tell you exactly what you need to do to keep your Medicaid coverage.  

Please make sure we have your correct phone number, email address, and home address so we can send you important information.

If you enrolled in Medicaid through NY State of Health, you can update your contact information in these ways:

You can learn more about how to update your contact information with NY State of Health here: Reporting Changes. 

Some New Yorkers enroll in Medicaid through their county's Local Department of Social Services. A small number of these people will also need to follow new federal rules.  If you enrolled in Medicaid with your county's Local Department of Social Services, contact that office to update your information.

 

What Else Can I Do?

We will continue to update this page with more information, so check back here for updates.

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