Patient Resources
Medicaid Changes in 2027
Some South Dakota Medicaid Expansion rules are changing. Here’s what you need to know, and what you can do now to keep your coverage.
Mark your calendar
Changes start January 1, 2027.
January 1, 2027 New applicants first. Current members at their first renewal in 2027.
If you or someone in your family has Medicaid Expansion, three things change: a work or activity requirement for some adults, renewals every 6 months and less backdated coverage. A few simple steps now can keep your coverage from lapsing.
What to do now
What’s changing
Three changes to know about.
-
Work or activity requirement
Some adults ages 19 to 64 may need to show 80 hours each month of one or more of these:
- Work
- Job training
- Volunteer work
- School
- Or a mix of these
Starts January 1, 2027 for new applicants, and at your first renewal in 2027 if you’re already a member. Who doesn’t need it
-
Renew every 6 months
If you have Medicaid Expansion, you’ll renew twice a year.
- Medicaid Expansion
- 6 months
- Other Medicaid groups
- 12 months
-
Less backdated coverage
How far back coverage can start before the day you apply:
- Medicaid Expansion
- 1 month
- Other Medicaid or CHIP groups
- 2 months
- Before 2027
- 3 months
Exemptions
You may not need the work requirement.
You may not need to show work or activity hours if any of these describe you. Other exemptions may apply, so check with DSS if you’re not sure.
- American Indian or Alaska Native
- Pregnant or postpartum
- Taking care of a child age 13 or younger, or a person with a disability
- A former foster youth under age 26
- Living with a serious medical condition or disability
- In treatment for drug or alcohol addiction
- Already meeting SNAP or TANF work requirements
Keep your coverage
What should you do now?
-
Make sure DSS has your correct address and phone number.
-
Watch for mail from DSS.
-
Sign up for the BEES Customer Portal.
-
Call your local DSS office if you have questions.
Learn more from the South Dakota Department of Social Services at dss.sd.gov/medicaid/HR1.aspx.
Save or share
The Medicaid changes flyer
Everything on this page, on one page. Download it to keep, print or share with family.
We’re here to help
Questions about paying for care?
Whatever happens with your coverage, you can still get care at CFM. Ask us about our Financial Assistance Program and sliding fee options, or reach out through our secure contact form.