Recent federal legislation will result in changes to NC Medicaid eligibility and enrollment requirements. Some current Medicaid beneficiaries and individuals applying for Medicaid may be affected. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has begun notifying certain beneficiaries who may be impacted by these changes. If you receive a notice, please review it carefully and respond promptly to any requests for information.

Key Changes

Effective October 1, 2026

Changes for Certain Non-Citizens

Federal law changes will affect Medicaid eligibility for certain non-citizens. Some individuals who currently qualify for Medicaid may no longer be eligible beginning October 1, 2026. For more information visit: Medicaid is Changing | NC Medicaid.

Effective January 1, 2027

Work and Community Engagement Requirements

Some adults ages 19 through 64 may be required to work, attend school, participate in job training, volunteer, or engage in another approved activity to maintain Medicaid coverage. For more information visit: NC Medicaid Work and Community Engagement Requirements | NC Medicaid.

More Frequent Medicaid Renewals

Some adults ages 19 through 64 will be required to complete a Medicaid recertification every six months instead of annually

Changes to Retroactive Medicaid Coverage

The amount of retroactive Medicaid coverage available for medical bills incurred before a Medicaid application is submitted will be reduced for many beneficiaries.

What You Should Do

• Make sure Forsyth County DSS has your current mailing address and contact information.
• Open and review all mail received from NC Medicaid or Forsyth County DSS.
• Respond promptly to requests for information or verification.
• Report changes in income, household composition, address, or immigration status as soon as possible.
• Do not ignore notices regarding your Medicaid coverage.

Learn More

For detailed information regarding these federal Medicaid changes, including eligibility requirements, exemptions, and implementation timelines, visit: Medicaid: The Impact of H.R. 1 and Federal Changes to Medicaid.

Need Help?

If you have questions regarding your Medicaid case, please contact the Forsyth County Department of Social Services. You may also contact the NC Medicaid Contact Center.

NC Medicaid Contact Center
Phone: 888-245-0179
Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The NC Medicaid Contact Center can assist beneficiaries with general questions regarding Medicaid policies, procedures, notices, and upcoming program changes.