Coming - 2026 + . . . Federal Medicaid Work Requirements

[Karen Kierpaul]

Adding to our list of things to watch for in 2026 . . . here is some reading materials and a cheat sheet to help you stay current (somewhat) as we await further Federal implementation guidance 

https://www.chcs.org/resource/a-summary-of-national-medicaid-work-requirements/#:~:text=The%20requirements%20include:%20*%2080%20hours%20per,Pregnant%20and%20postpartum%20individuals%20*%20Short%2Dterm%20hardship

Modern Healthcare: Medicaid Work Requirements Loom As CMS Guidance Lags
A year from the debut of national Medicaid work requirements, states and health insurance companies anxiously await critical instructions from federal authorities. States have until January 2027 to stand up and activate a new verification system that conditions Medicaid benefits on at least 80 hours per month of work or other qualifying activities, such as full-time schooling or volunteering. 

Policy Cheat Sheet

Updated December 2025

A Summary of Federal Medicaid Work Requirements