Frequently Asked Questions

Many adults ages 19 to 64 enrolled in Medicaid could be subject to new red tape and paperwork requirements. Some people are automatically exempt, including parents and caretakers of children 13 and under, some disabled people, and pregnant and post-partum people. Some exempt people will be asked to provide documentation proving that they are exempt or compliant, depending on state.

In some states they have already started, and all states must begin by January 1, 2027. Visit your state’s page for the most up-to-date information. Don’t see your state listed on the Keep Your Care site? Share your email to receive updates so you’re ready to protect your coverage.

Many people won’t receive clear information from the government until it’s very close to the deadline. Official notices will likely be provided to you via mail. That’s exactly why Keep Your Care exists. Sign up for updates and we’ll make sure you know what’s happening in your state before it affects your coverage.

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Medicaid goes by different names in different states, so you may be on Medicaid without realizing it. Look for a card or letter from the state agency that provides your care, or check your state’s Medicaid website if you signed up online. You can also call your state Medicaid office directly.

The process varies by state, but most people will need to submit documentation proving they work, attend school, volunteer, or care for a family member. Find your state below for specific guidance on what’s required where you live.

New York California Georgia Illinois Michigan North Carolina Virginia

Don’t see your state listed? Keep Your Care is only active in select states, but you can sign up for updates and we may be able to help you find resources where you live.

Working at least 80 hours per month, attending school or job training, volunteering, or serving as a caregiver for a child or disabled family member. Documentation requirements vary by state. Find your state below for specific guidance on what’s required where you live.

New York California Georgia Illinois Michigan North Carolina Virginia

Don’t see your state listed? Keep Your Care is only active in select states, but you can sign up for updates and we may be able to help you find resources where you live.

Keep Your Care is here to help. If you already meet the new requirements, the main challenge is documenting and submitting that information correctly. We connect you with navigators and local organizations who can walk you through the process step by step.

To be connected with local groups and resources to best help you, sign up for updates from Keep Your Care.

No. Keep Your Care is an independent nonprofit organization. We are not affiliated with any government agency. Our goal is to provide clear, accessible information to help Medicaid recipients keep their coverage at zero cost.

Yes. Even if you’re already working, you’ll need to prove it to the state to keep your coverage. Many people who lose coverage under previous work requirements are actually working or would qualify for an exemption — they lose it simply because they miss a form or a deadline. Don’t assume you’re covered automatically. Sign up for updates and we’ll remind you when it’s time to act.

You’ll generally need at least 80 hours per month from any combination of working, self-employment, job training, going to school, or volunteering/community service. Caregiving and other exemptions may also count. In some states, you can meet the requirement either by completing 80 hours of approved activities a month OR by earning at least $580 a month — you only need to do one.

If you lose coverage for not meeting or not reporting the requirement, you can regain it once you meet the requirement again or qualify for an exemption. Act as soon as you can — a gap in coverage can mean going without care or paying out of pocket. Your state’s resources can help you re-apply, and Keep Your Care can remind you of key dates.

Some states will offer short-term “hardship” exemptions for certain situations that make it hard to meet or report the requirement on time. If you’re having trouble complying, contact your state’s Medicaid agency or portal right away rather than waiting — and keep documentation of your circumstances.

No. These work requirements apply only to adults ages 19–64 who are covered through Medicaid expansion. Children’s Medicaid and CHIP coverage are not subject to work requirements. Still, keep your household’s contact information up to date with your state Medicaid agency — through your online benefits account or your local Medicaid/human services office — so you don’t miss any notices. The federal Medicaid website provides an overview of state resources for where to get help with Medicaid and CHIP.