Some Vermont adults ages 19 to 64 will face new Medicaid work and renewal requirements in 2027 under a new federal law, but the timing depends on whether they are applying for coverage or renewing it.
The state's guidance, updated Oct. 28, says affected new applicants beginning Jan. 1 must show they met the work requirements during the month before applying. Beginning March 1, affected current members renewing coverage must show they met them in one month since their last application or renewal.
The rules can be met through qualifying monthly income of at least $580, within Medicaid's income limit, or 80 hours of qualifying work, education, community service or related activities.
Exclusions include caregivers of a child under 14 or a disabled person, and people with certain health conditions. People under 19, adults 65 and older, pregnant people and those within 12 months after pregnancy, and people entitled to or enrolled in Medicare are outside the affected group.
Affected members will also face six-month eligibility reviews. The Department of Vermont Health Access provides a screening tool and urges members to update contact information and respond to notices. Coverage questions can go to 1-855-899-9600.