Don't Lose Your Medicaid Coverage
Some Missouri Medicaid (also called MO HealthNet) members will see changes beginning Jan. 1, 2027. These changes come from new federal requirements and may affect adults enrolled through Missouri’s Adult Expansion Group (AEG).
Many people only need to complete paperwork or provide updated information to keep their coverage. Receiving a notice about these changes does not mean your benefits are ending.
Who May Be Affected?
You may be affected if you:
- Are age 19 to 64
- Receive MO HealthNet through the Adult Expansion Group
Different rules may apply if you:
- Are pregnant or recently had a baby
- Have Medicare
- Have a disability or certain medical conditions
- Care for a child or another person
- Are a veteran
- Are enrolled in school or job training
Some people may qualify for an exemption or exclusion from community engagement requirements.
What is Changing?
More Frequent Eligibility Reviews
Starting in 2027, some adults in the Adult Expansion Group will need to complete a Medicaid eligibility review every six months instead of once a year.
When the state asks for information, be sure to respond by the deadline to help avoid a gap in coverage.
New Community Engagement Requirements
Some adults ages 19 to 64 in the Adult Expansion Group may need to meet new community engagement requirements. These activities may include:
- Working
- Attending school
- Participating in job training
- Volunteering or community service
- Other qualifying activities
In many cases, members can meet the requirement by:
- Completing 80 hours of qualifying activities in a month
- Earning at least $580 per month
- Attending school at least half-time
Proof may be required, such as a pay stub, school records or volunteer documentation.
Changes to Retroactive Coverage
Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, retroactive Medicaid coverage will be more limited. If you think you may qualify for Medicaid, apply as soon as possible rather than waiting.
What Should You Do Now?
Keep Your Information Updated
Make sure the Missouri Department of Social Services has your current:
- Mailing address
- Phone number
- Email address
This helps ensure you receive important notices about your coverage.
Watch for Official Notices
Read all mail, emails and messages from the Missouri Department of Social Services and Family Support Division. Paying attention to notices now can help prevent problems later.
Don’t Panic if You Receive a Notice
The state has begun notifying some members about upcoming changes. These notices are informational and do not mean you are losing Medicaid coverage. Community engagement requirements do not begin until January 2027.
Keep Important Records
If community engagement requirements apply to you, consider saving records related to:
- Employment
- Volunteer service
- School attendance
- Job training
- Income
You do not need to send documents unless the state asks for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Many members will keep their coverage by responding to requests for information and completing required paperwork on time.
Not necessarily. Rules vary depending on your situation. The Missouri Department of Social Services will review eligibility based on specific requirements and time periods.
Yes. Qualifying work, education, training and community service activities may be combined when allowed.
Missing a deadline could delay or end your Medicaid coverage. If you receive a request for information, respond as soon as possible.
Report changes to your address, contact information and income when required. A job change does not automatically mean you will lose coverage.
Need More Information?
Contact Mo. DSS
The Missouri Department of Social Services has created a central information hub with updates, FAQs, eligibility information and screening tools.
Visit dss.mo.gov/hr1 or call the Family Support Division at 855-373-4636.
CMH Resources
Kahlie Krtek, Medical Coverage Resources Specialist: 417-328-7349 or kahlie.krtek@citizensmemorial.com