Lost Medicaid — or about to? Your next options, ranked
Losing Medicaid is not the end of coverage. Most people have 2–4 real alternatives, and the best one depends on your state, your family, and how fast you act. Answer three questions — this takes 30 seconds.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 60-day Special Enrollment Period after losing Medicaid?＋
Losing Medicaid coverage triggers a 60-day Special Enrollment Period for ACA marketplace plans, regardless of Open Enrollment timing. Use the loss-of-coverage notice from your state Medicaid agency as your qualifying event. Most states accept the notice as proof and let you enroll through HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace.
Can my children keep Medicaid or CHIP even if I lose my own coverage?＋
Yes. Children's Medicaid and CHIP eligibility is determined separately from parents'. In most states children qualify at 200% to 380% of the federal poverty level. Renew on time and do not drop their applications just because an adult in the household lost coverage.
I can't afford any premium — what are my real options?＋
Three real fallbacks: (1) in 41 expansion states plus DC, marketplace subsidies make plans affordable at most income levels; (2) several states (CA, NY, others) fund their own programs for residents regardless of immigration status; (3) community health centers (FQHCs) charge on a sliding scale based on income regardless of immigration status or insurance.
What should I do first after losing Medicaid?＋
Within 60 days: (1) save your termination notice — it is your marketplace SEP proof; (2) apply at your state's marketplace even if you think you cannot afford it — subsidy eligibility is auto-checked; (3) if you have children, renew their Medicaid/CHIP separately; (4) appeal the termination if you believe it was issued in error.