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Medicaid Changes 2027

Changes are coming to Medicaid

On January 1, 2027, Medicaid will undergo changes that may impact you or your family. Medicaid, also known as Medical Assistance (MA), is health insurance for people who meet certain income limits and other eligibility criteria. In Pennsylvania, Medicaid is overseen by the Department of Human Services (DHS). PA DHS has the most up-to-date resources and information about the upcoming changes.

PHMC is here to support our community as we prepare for these changes together.

Here’s what you need to know now. Use the links to access available resources.

What’s changing?

  1. Some adults ages 19-64 will need to complete a renewal every six months instead of every year.

  2. Some adults ages 19-64 who do not have a dependent child under 14 years old will need to meet new work requirements.

  3. Coverage for medical expenses that occurred before the month of application will be shortened to the following:
    – One month for some adults (age 19-64)
    – Two months for all other Medicaid recipients

How do I know if these changes will affect me?

Certain people do not need to meet these requirements. Click here for more information about exemptions.

What can I do right now to get ready for these changes?

1. Understand your benefits.

Knowing if you have Medicaid is the first step.  Medicaid plans in PA include Keystone First (AmeriHealth Caritas family), Jefferson Health Plans (formerly Health Partners Plans), UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, UPMC for You, and Community Behavioral Health.

2. Look for Your Card

If you are enrolled, you should have a yellow or white PA ACCESS card as well as a health insurance member ID card from your plan. If you are also enrolled in

3. Log in to COMPASS

Visit dhs.pa.gov/COMPASS or the myCOMPASS PA mobile app to check your Medicaid status.

4. Keep your contact information up to date.

  • Update your contact information and address with DHS
    Log in to COMPASS at dhs.pa.gov/COMPASS or the myCOMPASS PA mobile app to check and update an address and other contact information.
  • Update your address with the US Postal Service
    Visit USPS.com/move to update an address.
  • Sign up for texts and emails from DHS
    Visit dhs.pa.gov/text to sign up for texts and emails to get even faster notifications about benefits.

5. Be on the lookout for important communications.

Soon, DHS will be reaching out to Medicaid recipients who are currently eligible under Medicaid expansion with details about the upcoming work requirement changes. All communications will give you resources to help prepare for the changes.

You may receive a:

  • Text message from PA DHS 69217
  • Robo call from PA DHS 1-877-839-4782
  • Letter form the Department of Human Services