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Module 5 of 6

Keeping your coverage

Lesson 1 of 2 in this module

Lesson 12 of 140% of the course done

Lesson 12

Renewals and reporting changes

⏱ 2 min

Key points

  • Your state must first try to renew you automatically, using records it already has.
  • If it can't, it mails you a form and gives you at least 30 days to return it.
  • If you lose coverage over a missed form, you usually have 90 days to send it in without reapplying.
  • Report changes in income, address or household size between renewals.

Every state checks regularly whether you still qualify. Right now that's at least once a year, and from 2027 it's every six months for expansion adults.

How a renewal works

Your state has to try to renew you without asking you for anything, using information it already has, such as wage records and other benefits you get. If that works, you'll just get a letter saying your coverage continues.

If it can't confirm everything, it mails you a renewal form with some of your information already filled in. You get at least 30 days to check it, fill in what's missing and send it back with any proof it asks for.

If you miss the form

Coverage often ends because the form went to an old address or got lost in a pile of mail. If your coverage ends because you didn't return it, you can usually send it within 90 days and have your state reconsider without starting a new application. Your coverage may be restored back to the date it ended.

Report changes between renewals

Tell your agency when your income, address or household changes, such as a new baby or someone moving out. Your state's letters explain how and how quickly to report. Keeping your address current matters most, because every important notice comes by mail.

Watch for renewal scams

Scammers call and text people about "renewing" Medicaid. HealthCare.gov says your state will never ask for a credit card number or payment to keep or qualify for coverage. If you're unsure whether a message is real, call your state agency using the number on its official website or your card.

Keep your coverage: a simple routine

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Quick check

Your Medicaid ended last month because you missed the renewal form. What's usually the fastest fix?

Sources: 42 CFR 435.916, periodic renewal, eCFR; Medicaid & CHIP coverage, HealthCare.gov.