Medicaid and CHIP renewals are handled by the program that currently provides the coverage. A renewal is not filed with a federal CMS office.
1. Keep contact information current
Make sure the Medicaid or CHIP agency has the household's current mailing address, phone number, email address, and preferred language. USPS forwarding does not replace an official update with the program.
2. Watch for the renewal notice
The state may be able to renew coverage using information it already has. If more information is needed, it will send a form or request. Read the entire notice because the response method and deadline are jurisdiction-specific.
3. Review the household information
Check the listed household members, address, income sources, other coverage, pregnancy, disability, and any program-specific facts. Correct inaccurate information through the channel allowed by the state.
4. Return requested information on time
Submit only what the notice requests, use the official portal, phone, mail, in-person, or other approved method, and keep a copy or confirmation. Do not send documents to a general federal address.
5. Read the eligibility decision
The decision should say who remains covered, the effective date, any next steps, and how to challenge an action. Family members can receive different results, so review each person's status separately.
If coverage will end
Check whether the notice is correct and whether a fair hearing is appropriate. Also compare other coverage promptly. A person who loses or is denied Medicaid or CHIP may qualify for Marketplace enrollment outside Open Enrollment, subject to the current Marketplace rules.
Official sources
- USAGov — apply for and renew Medicaid or CHIP
- Medicaid.gov — state Medicaid and CHIP contacts
- CMS — Medicaid and CHIP renewal resources