Do you have Medicaid/Medi-Cal or CHIP? Learn how to keep your health coverage.
Be ready to renew your coverage
If you have Medicaid/Medi-Cal or CHIP, check your mail for your renewal form from your state. States are restarting the renewal process that was paused during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fill out the form and mail it back right away so you don’t lose coverage.
If your state has already notified you that you’re ineligible, see your options for staying covered below.
Lost coverage? Take action to stay covered.
Losing health coverage is stressful, and the process for finding coverage can feel complicated. Here are 3 simple things you can do now.
3 things to know now:
1. If you lose health coverage
You can reapply for Medicaid/Medi-Cal or CHIP at any time. If your job or life circumstances change, you might become eligible again. There is no limit to the number of times you can apply.
2. If your family doesn’t qualify for Medicaid/Medi-Cal
If your whole family doesn’t qualify for Medicaid/Medi-Cal, your state will automatically check to see if your child qualifies for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
3. If you need to find low-cost alternatives
You can still get health coverage that fits your budget through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Four out of five people can find plans that cost less than $10 a month.
Get specifics for coverage in your state
The process for renewing and reapplying for coverage is a little different in every state. Find out what information you need to provide on your state’s website.
You don’t have to figure out coverage by yourself. Many state websites have a list of local organizations that can answer any questions and provide individual support.
Find information for your state
Click on your state below to get specifics for the coverage requirement, including who is eligible, how to reapply, and what information you need to include. If your state is not listed, Google “apply for Medicaid/Medi-Cal in [your state].”
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need to reapply for Medicaid/Medi-Cal?
The annual Medicaid/Medi-Cal renewal process was paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, but states have restarted yearly Medicaid/Medi-Cal eligibility reviews. This means that each state is in the process of requalifying people covered by Medicaid/Medi-Cal.
Who can reapply and how often?
Anyone who’s lost Medicaid/Medi-Cal coverage can reapply, and there’s no limit to the number of times you can reapply. If your job or life circumstances change, you might now be eligible. You also might still be eligible even if you’ve lost coverage. Sometimes forms aren’t processed on time, paperwork might be incorrect or backlogged, or the state doesn’t have your current contact information. It’s always best to reapply to be sure.
What if I have children?
Even if your whole family is no longer eligible for Medicaid/Medi-Cal, your child might qualify for health coverage through your state’s Children Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Your state will automatically check your child’s eligibility when you reapply.
How difficult is the process?
The process for reapplying for Medicaid/Medi-Cal can feel complicated, but maintaining health coverage for you and your family is worth it. Many states have expanded their Medicaid/Medi-Cal programs to cover more low-income adults. If you are unsure if you might qualify for Medicaid/Medi-Cal, you should apply. You might be eligible depending on your household income, family size, age, disability, and other factors.
If your family isn’t eligible for Medicaid/Medi-Cal, there are also other options for finding coverage that fits your budget through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Four out of five enrollees can find plans that cost less than $10 a month.
Does immigration status matter?
Each state has different policies. Some states provide coverage no matter your immigration status. Other states require you to meet certain requirements. Your state’s website can give you information specific to your situation.
Where can I find help for applying?
Visit your state’s website for information around who’s eligible and what you need to include in your application.
If you have questions, many states provide a list of local organizations that can help you throughout the process. Remember: You will never be asked to pay to reapply. If someone tells you that you need to pay, that is a scam.