News
Changes to Maryland Medicaid and SNAP Coming January 1
A new federal law that goes into effect January 1, 2027, adds new requirements for up to 320,000 Maryland Medicaid members.
Work Requirements
Some Medicaid members may need to complete at least 80 hours in a month doing one or more of these activities:
- Working at a job or earning at least $580 a month.
- Volunteering in the community.
- Taking part in job training programs.
- Going to school, college, technical school or taking GED classes.
New applicants must complete work requirements or other activities in the month prior to the application. Existing members must complete work requirements or other activities in at least one recent month.
Renew Medicaid Twice a Year
Some Medicaid members may also need to renew their coverage every 6 months rather than every 12 months. Renewal may include providing:
- Income information
- Proof of work or approved work requirement activities
Also starting on January 1, some immigrants will no longer qualify for Medicaid coverage. This new law applies to adults, but not to children or pregnant people. Visit the Maryland Department of Health’s Immigration Status Requirements page for more information.
Some Medicaid Members May Be Exempt
Certain individuals may not need to meet these new requirements, including:
- Children under age 19
- Adults age 65 or older
- Pregnant individuals
- Individuals living with disabilities
- Caregivers of young children
- Individuals managing serious health conditions
Maryland Health Connection will provide additional information to Medicaid members if work and renewal requirements apply to them.
SNAP Benefits
The new federal law also makes it harder for some to keep their SNAP benefits. Up to 80,000 Marylanders may now need to report monthly work hours to continue receiving food assistance, including:
- Adults ages 55-64
- Parents of children over age 13
- Veterans
- People experiencing homelessness
- Former foster youth
You may not have to meet these work rules if you qualify for an exemption. Contact your caseworker or visit MarylandBenefits.gov to learn more.
