Big changes are coming in 2026.
We are here to help.

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Starting next year, federal rules will change health insurance in Maryland. We are here to help you understand what’s happening and what you can do to stay covered and save money.

What to know right now:

Use Your Coverage. Your 2025 Plan Is Still Good!

If you have health insurance through Maryland Health Connection, your current 2025 plan hasn’t changed. Use your benefits through the end of the year.

Now is a great time to:

• • Schedule your free annual wellness checkup

  • Get care for health needs you’ve been putting off

  • Use your plan before any changes happen

Plan for higher costs

The extra savings (enhanced premium tax credits) funded by the federal government will probably end this year. Financial help will still be available, but many enrollees could receive less than they did before.

That means costs will go up in 2026.

But don’t worry - we’ll help you:

• • Compare plans

  • Find one that fits your budget

  • Connect with free help

  • This year, Maryland is providing financial help thanks to a new state program, Maryland Premium Assistance. The amount of assistance depends on factors such as income, family size, and ZIP code. Eligible Marylanders can use the Get an Estimate tool to see how much they may save.

Some People May Need to Send In Extra Info

We may need to check your income again during Open Enrollment. If we do, we’ll send you a message.

Be sure to check your online account so you don’t miss anything.

Changes are coming to Medicaid

For now, there are no changes to member eligibility, services, or coverage. Before any change happens, we will send you an official notice.

For benefits or services information, call your managed care organization on the back of your insurance card or HealthChoice at 800-284-4510.

Immigrant eligibility changing in 2026

Starting Oct. 1, 2026, only certain immigrants will be eligible for Medicaid and Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP). Read more about enrollment and eligibility for immigrants.

New requirements for certain adults start in 2027

Starting Jan. 1, 2027, certain adults ages 19-64 will:

• • be required to complete 80 hours per month of work, education, or community service to be eligible for Medicaid

  • have their eligibility re-checked every 6 months instead of every 12 months

  • If this applies to you, Medicaid will send you a letter

Retroactive Coverage Changing in 2027

Starting January 1, 2027, Medicaid will pay for fewer months of retroactive medical bills. Medicaid may pay for one month of prior expenses for certain adults and up to two months for other groups.

Need Help?

Maryland Health Connection remains committed to helping Marylanders get covered. We’re here to help - and we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Free expert assistance is available, and there are many ways you can get free help:

• • Talk to a trained expert in your area, for free!

  • Call us at 855-642-8572. Deaf and hard of hearing use Relay.

  • If you had help enrolling with a broker, contact your broker for assistance.

Stay Informed. Stay Covered.

We know these changes can be confusing. But you’re not alone. As your trusted local resource, we’ll make sure you have the facts, the tools, and the support to stay covered and stay healthy.

Find an event in your area. You can also sign up for text alerts or email notifications to stay updated with the latest news and updates.

Maryland open enrollment begins November 1, 2025. Enroll by January 15, 2026.