Most Medicaid members have to renew, also called recertify or redetermine, their benefits every 12 months to stay enrolled for the next year. The renewal process is to make sure you are still eligible for Medicaid.
Renewing after extensions are lifted
Many states have put a hold on renewals or extended coverage times due to COVID-19. If your renewal was extended, you will receive a notice once the extension is over. This notice will explain what you need to do to stay covered. It is important to follow the directions quickly to keep your benefits.
Types of things to have ready
When you renew, you may be asked to confirm:
- Proof of income or employment.
- Tax filing information.
- Citizenship or immigration status.
- Your Social Security number.
It is best to have this handy when completing your renewal. You may be able to renew your benefits online. Other plans may ask you to mail your information back or call them.
Why is renewing your benefits important?
Renewing your benefits makes sure you keep your coverage for another year, as long as you are still eligible. If you do not renew, you could lose your benefits and not be able to get the medicine or services you need. This means you may have to pay for doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, labs and tests, or immunizations (shots) on your own.
The average emergency room (ER) visit in the U.S. costs $2,032. Protect yourself from these expenses by renewing your Medicaid benefits.
Tips for renewing on time.
Here are a few things you can do to make sure you don’t miss your renewal:
- Look out for a renewal notice. It will let you know when it is time to start your renewal.
- Keep your contact information up-to-date. If you move or get a new phone number or email address, let the state know so you don’t miss anything.
- Set a reminder on your phone or write your renewal date on a calendar so you don’t forget.
For more on renewing your benefits, visit the renewal page or your member website.
Source: https://khn.org/morning-breakout/the-cost-of-unwarranted-er-visits-32-billion-a-year