New York has provided several updates as it prepares to implement Medicaid work requirements beginning January 1, 2027:
- Self-Attestation: During 2027, self-attestation for nearly all exclusions will be incorporated directly into the Medicaid application and renewal process rather than requiring a separate form. This includes medical frailty, participation in substance use treatment, and caregiving for a child age 13 or younger or an individual with a disability. Disabled veterans and recently incarcerated individuals will need to provide documentation. Beginning in 2028, an individual may self-attest only once during a continuous period of Medicaid enrollment. At the next six-month renewal, the exclusion will need to be verified through available data or documentation.
- Member Notices: New York has begun sending notices to Medicaid members who may be affected by the work requirements. The notices explain the upcoming requirements, identify activities and exclusions that may qualify, and encourage members to begin preparing before implementation.
- Bronx Short-Term Hardship Exception: New York plans to request federal approval for a temporary hardship exception for the Bronx based on its unemployment rate. The Bronx is currently the only New York county that meets the federal unemployment threshold. CMS has not yet approved the request, and it remains unclear how long an approved exception would last.