CORTLAND, NY (607NewsNow) — Residents of Cortland County on Medicaid are being made aware of what will change in the new year as H.R. 1, commonly known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” puts Medicaid requirement and eligibility changes into effect.
The Cortland County Department of Social Services says changes to Medicaid eligibility and coverage requirements that may affect certain recipients. The following changes will begin on January 1st, 2027:
Work and Community Engagement Requirements
- Certain adults ages 19–64 may be required to demonstrate that they are working, attending
school, participating in job training, or volunteering in their community to maintain
Medicaid coverage.
Medicaid Renewals
- Certain Medicaid recipients may be required to renew their eligibility every six (6) months
instead of annually.
Retroactive Medicaid Coverage
- Changes to retroactive coverage will limit how far back Medicaid can cover eligible
medical expenses incurred before an individual’s application.
How Can Individuals Meet the New Requirements?
Individuals subject to the new work and community engagement requirements may qualify by:
- Earning at least $580 per month through employment.
- Completing at least 80 hours per month of qualifying activities.
Who May Be Exempt?
Certain individuals may be exempt from the new work and community engagement requirements,
including those who:
- Are pregnant or have been pregnant within the past 12 months.
- Have a qualifying disability or medical condition that limits their ability to work.
- Care for a child under age 14 or an individual with a disability.
- Are age 65 or older.
- Are enrolled in Medicare.
- Meet applicable work requirements through SNAP or TANF.
Additional exemptions may apply based on individual circumstances.
What Should Medicaid Recipients Do Now?
Cortland County DSS encourages all Medicaid recipients to:
- Read all Medicaid notices received by mail, text message, or email.
- Keep contact information up to date to ensure important notices and renewal information
are received. - Respond promptly to requests for information or documentation to avoid potential
interruptions in coverage. - Contact the appropriate agency with questions regarding eligibility, renewals, or the
upcoming changes.
Residents looking for assistance with the upcoming changes can call the Cortland County Department of Social Services at (607) 753-5320, visit the New York State Department of Health website at https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov, or give them a call at 1-855-355-5777.
