New federal law will require some adults to work or report income to keep coverage
North Carolina Medicaid recipients will see new rules next year due to a federal law passed in 2025. Because the state expanded Medicaid in late 2023, certain adults will now have to meet monthly work or income requirements to keep their coverage.
The rule applies to adults ages 19 through 64 enrolled through Medicaid expansion. To stay covered, they must either earn at least $580 per household per month or complete 80 hours of approved activities such as working, job training, school, or volunteering.
Many people will not have to meet the requirement. Exemptions include individuals under 19 or over 64. People who are either receiving SSI or SSDI, pregnant, the parents of children under 14, caregivers for people with disabilities, veterans with a 100% disability, people in substance‑use treatment, individuals recently released from jail /prison.
The state is required to follow the federal law and has updated its procedures to match it. Additional changes approved by the General Assembly in 2026 include switching to six‑month renewals and shortening retroactive coverage.
The rollout begins in stages. New rules begin January 1, 2027. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services plans to release more information later this year.
County social services offices in Brunswick and Columbus counties expect more questions and paperwork as the new rules take effect. Residents unsure about their status can contact their local DSS office for help.
© 2026 CoastalCarolinaNews.com. All rights reserved.
Be the first to comment