Cut off from Medicaid? Do these 4 things, in order

A termination notice is not the end of the story. You have appeal rights, a re-enrollment path, and — with one important trap to avoid — marketplace options. Work the steps in order; the deadlines matter.

1. Read the notice and check the reason

Your state must tell you WHY. If the reason is the work requirement, check two things first: were you actually exempt (there are 10 categories — run the quiz), and did you actually meet the hours or the $580/month income test without realizing it (what counts)? Many terminations are paperwork failures, not eligibility failures.

2. Appeal — the deadline is short

You have the right to a fair hearing. Request it in writing immediately; if you request it before your termination date, you can often keep coverage while the appeal runs. Include your proof: pay stubs, enrollment letters, volunteer logs, or evidence of your exemption.

3. Fix and reapply

Being cut off is not a ban. If you can show compliance or an exemption for the required months, you can reapply. Renewals run at least every 6 months under the same law, so get your documentation habit started now — it will come up again.

4. Know the marketplace trap before you shop

Warning.

The statute bars people denied for failing the work requirement from marketplace premium subsidies. If your termination was for noncompliance, resolving that (via appeal or proving an exemption) may matter more than shopping for plans. Reported from the law as enacted — verify your situation with your state or a licensed professional before relying on it.

If you left Medicaid for other reasons — income change, moving, aging out — losing Medicaid is a qualifying life event: you get a special enrollment window on the marketplace, and subsidies may make a plan cheaper than you expect.

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