Medicaid work rule (2027) · SNAP time limit (now)
Do I have to meet the Medicaid or SNAP work rules? And what proof do I send?
SNAP (food stamps) already limits many adults 18 to 64 to 3 months in 3 years unless they work, volunteer, or train 80 hours a month or earn $217.50 a week. Starting in 2027, many adults 19 to 64 with expansion Medicaid must show 80 hours a month or $580 a month in income. Many people are exempt from one or both. Answer a few questions to see where you stand, what to send, and get free forms to print.
Start the free checkThe Medicaid rule in plain words
Who it applies to
Adults 19 through 64 who get Medicaid through the expansion (adult) group, or certain waiver programs. Not people on Medicare, and not people who get Medicaid because of a disability or pregnancy.
How to meet it (any one)
- 80 hours in a month of work, volunteering, a work program, or school. You can mix them.
- $580 in monthly income (80 × $7.25). The federal rule uses your Medicaid household's income.
- In school at least half-time.
Who is exempt
- Pregnant, or within 12 months after
- Parent or caregiver of a child 13 or younger, or of a person with a disability
- Medically frail: disability, serious mental illness, substance use disorder, or a serious or complex condition
- American Indian or Alaska Native
- Veteran with a total disability rating
- Former foster youth under 26
- In jail, or released in the last 3 months
- In drug or alcohol treatment
- Meeting SNAP or TANF work rules
When
- At your first renewal on or after January 1, 2027 (some states start with March 2027 renewals).
- Nebraska, Montana, and Iowa start earlier.
- Renewals move to every 6 months.
- 2027: some states accept your signed statement. From 2028, states must ask for documents when they can.
The SNAP time limit in plain words
Who it applies to
Adults 18 through 64 who can work and have no child under 14 in their SNAP household. Without an exemption or a local waiver, SNAP is limited to 3 months in 3 years. It is in effect now (states started in late 2025).
How to meet it (any one)
- 80 hours a month of work (paid, for goods or rent, or unpaid), volunteering, or an approved work or training program. You can mix them.
- Pay of $217.50 a week (30 × $7.25).
- The workfare hours your SNAP office assigns.
Who is exempt
- A child under 14 in your SNAP household
- Pregnant
- Unable to work because of a physical or mental health problem, or getting disability benefits
- American Indian or Alaska Native
- Caring for a child under 6 or someone who can't care for themselves
- Getting or applying for unemployment, meeting TANF work rules, in drug or alcohol treatment, or in school at least half-time
No longer exempt: veterans, people who are homeless, and former foster youth under 25.
The general SNAP work rules are separate
- Ages 16 to 59: register for work, take a suitable job, don't quit without a good reason, and join a work program if assigned.
- Ages 60 to 64 don't have the general rules, but do have the time limit.
- Waivers are only for areas with unemployment over 10%.
- Each state tracks its 3 years its own way. New York's clock reset on October 1, 2026, so people cut off there can reapply.
The dollar tests are different
Medicaid: $580 a month of household income (80 hours × $7.25). SNAP: $217.50 a week of your own pay (30 hours × $7.25). Virginia states the SNAP test as $935.25 a month. Earning $600 a month meets Medicaid's test but not SNAP's.
Medicaid court ruling, October 29, 2026: medical frailty got easier to prove
In Massachusetts v. Oz, a federal judge ruled that CMS went too far when it made people show their health condition limits their ability to work. KFF says the ruling applies in every state: you now only need a condition in one of the five medically frail categories. HHS has not said if it will appeal. The court kept two limits: states may only use the last 12 months of claims, and from 2028 a signed statement can be used only once per enrollment period.
Check where you stand
What you'll get
- For each program you pick: whether you're likely exempt, already meeting the rule, or at risk
- What to do next, and a proof checklist for your situation
- For SNAP: what to do if you were cut off
- When the rules apply in your state, with official links
- Free printable forms: one hours log for both programs, an hours letter for a volunteer or training group to sign, and more
Your free forms
Filled in from your answers. Write your name and sign by hand. If your state has its own form, use theirs and attach these as extra support. One hours log works for both Medicaid and SNAP.
Your state's official pages: Medicaid and SNAP
Every link below goes to an official state page we opened (Medicaid pages on November 4, 2026; SNAP pages on November 5, 2026). Your state agency makes the final call.
Alabama
Medicaid work rule
Alabama has not expanded Medicaid, so this rule likely does not apply to you. If you have Medicaid, check your state Medicaid agency.
SNAP time limit
In Alabama, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Alaska
Medicaid work rule
Alaska expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Alaska Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Alaska, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Arizona
Medicaid work rule
Arizona expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Arizona Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Arizona, Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Arkansas
Medicaid work rule
Arkansas expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Timing: Arkansas (ARHOME) began a soft start on July 1, 2026. Arkansas says no penalties until January 1, 2027.
Official Arkansas Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Arkansas, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
California
Medicaid work rule
California expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official California Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In California, CalFresh (SNAP) follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Colorado full notes
Medicaid work rule
Full notes below, from Health First Colorado (HCPF).
- Starts January 2027. New applicants must show the rule was met in the calendar month before they apply. Members renewing must show at least 1 calendar month since their last renewal deadline.
- HCPF says the first group of members checked has March 2027 renewal dates.
- You can meet it with 80 hours of work, school, a work program, or volunteering, or by earning at least $580 from paid work, or a mix.
- Colorado also excludes people in long-term services and supports or a Medicaid buy-in program, and veterans with a 100% rating or Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).
- Colorado has its own screener tool on its website. HCPF says forms and documentation rules for 2028 are still coming.
Official Colorado Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Colorado, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Connecticut
Medicaid work rule
Connecticut expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state. In Connecticut the rule applies to HUSKY D adults.
Official Connecticut Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Connecticut, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Connecticut DSS says you meet the rule by working 80 hours or making at least $217.50 a week. It has a Request for Exemption from the SNAP Time Limit form (W-1460) and a medical report form (W-1210). Help: 1-855-626-6632.
Delaware
Medicaid work rule
Delaware expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Delaware Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Delaware, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
District of Columbia
Medicaid work rule
District of Columbia expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state. In DC the rule applies to the Childless Adults Medicaid group.
Official District of Columbia Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In District of Columbia, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Florida
Medicaid work rule
Florida has not expanded Medicaid, so this rule likely does not apply to you. If you have Medicaid, check your state Medicaid agency.
SNAP time limit
In Florida, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Georgia
Medicaid work rule
Georgia has not expanded Medicaid. The rule applies to Georgia Pathways to Coverage, which already had an 80-hour rule. Pathways rules change on January 1, 2027.
Official Georgia Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Georgia, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Hawaii
Medicaid work rule
Hawaii expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Hawaii Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Hawaii, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Idaho
Medicaid work rule
Idaho expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state. Idaho says applicants and members must show three months of qualifying activity. Read Idaho's page closely.
Official Idaho Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Idaho, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Illinois full notes
Medicaid work rule
Full notes below, from Illinois HFS.
- Applies to "ACA Adults": generally ages 19 to 64, no dependent children under 18 at home, and not on Medicare. Most Illinois parents and caretakers are in a different group and are not affected.
- New applicants are covered if they apply after 5:00 pm on December 31, 2026. Current ACA Adults must meet the rule starting at their first redetermination on or after January 1, 2027 (an IDHS memo says redeterminations due in March 2027 are first).
- You need $580 or more in monthly income, or half-time school, or 80 hours of work, volunteering, school, or a work program in at least one month of your 6-month period.
- In 2027 Illinois will accept your signed statement (self-attestation) for exemptions when its data can't confirm them. If data conflicts, it may ask for proof.
- If asked for more information, you have 30 days. You can check your group and notices in ABE Manage My Case or call HFS at 1-877-805-5312.
Official Illinois Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Illinois, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Indiana
Medicaid work rule
Indiana expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state. In Indiana the rule applies to the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP).
Official Indiana Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Indiana, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Iowa
Medicaid work rule
Iowa expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Timing: Iowa starts early: December 1, 2026 for new applicants. Current members with renewals in February 2027 or later must meet it for any two months since their last renewal.
SNAP time limit
In Iowa, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Kansas
Medicaid work rule
Kansas has not expanded Medicaid, so this rule likely does not apply to you. If you have Medicaid, check your state Medicaid agency.
SNAP time limit
In Kansas, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Kentucky full notes
Medicaid work rule
Full notes below, from Kentucky (kynect / KHBE).
- Starts January 1, 2027 for adults 19 to 64 in Medicaid Expansion. Kentucky calls it the MACE requirement.
- Applicants: show you met it in the month before you apply. Current members: show you met it for at least 3 of the 6 months before your renewal.
- Example from Kentucky: a February 2027 renewal looks at August 2026 through February 2027. Check your renewal date in kynect benefits.
- Kentucky lists exemptions including SSI, SSDI, or Social Security due to disability; Medicare; 1915(c) waiver or PACE enrollment; treatment for mental health or substance use; and caregivers actively involved in the care of a child 13 or younger or a person with a disability.
Official Kentucky Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Kentucky, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Kentucky applied the time limit in all 120 counties from November 1, 2025. Since December 1, 2025, Elliott, Lewis, Magoffin, Martin, and Wolfe counties are exempt.
Louisiana full notes
Medicaid work rule
Full notes below, from Louisiana Department of Health.
- Starts with renewals and new applicants from January 1, 2027. For 2027 renewals Louisiana checks at least one month since your last renewal. For 2027 applications, the month before you apply.
- Louisiana mails renewal packets 60 days before your renewal date. You have 45 days to respond. The packet includes a Work Requirements / Community Engagement Verification Form.
- For work, school, training, or volunteering, take the form to your boss, teacher, or the person in charge. Pay stubs that show hours can replace the boss's section.
- Caregiver and medically frail sections are self-attested for 2027 renewals. Louisiana says a medical provider may need to complete the form starting in 2028.
- Send proof at MyMedicaid.la.gov, by fax 877-523-2987, by mail, or in person. Louisiana Medicaid: 888-342-6207. The Emmy phone tool launches in early 2027.
Official Louisiana Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Louisiana, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Maine
Medicaid work rule
Maine expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Maine Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Maine, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Maryland
Medicaid work rule
Maryland expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Maryland Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Maryland, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Massachusetts
Medicaid work rule
Massachusetts expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Massachusetts Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Massachusetts, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Michigan full notes
Medicaid work rule
Full notes below, from Michigan MDHHS (Healthy Michigan Plan).
- Applies to people 19 to 64 on the Healthy Michigan Plan (HMP). Work requirements apply to HMP renewals on or after March 1, 2027.
- Members: meet the rule (or an exemption) in at least one month since your last renewal. Applicants: the month before you apply or the month you apply.
- Earning at least $580 in one month counts. So do 80 hours of approved activities in one month.
- Michigan's official screener, MI WEST, asks questions to see if you may be exempt or already meeting the rule. Michigan says it is informational only and cannot be used as proof.
- If you lose HMP only because of the work rule, Michigan says you cannot get Marketplace premium help. Beneficiary help line: 1-800-642-3195.
Official screener: MI WEST (Michigan Work & Exemption Screening Tool)
Official Michigan Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Michigan, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Minnesota
Medicaid work rule
Minnesota expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state. Check your state Medicaid agency.
Check your state Medicaid agency. We could not verify an official page for Minnesota.
SNAP time limit
In Minnesota, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Mississippi
Medicaid work rule
Mississippi has not expanded Medicaid, so this rule likely does not apply to you. If you have Medicaid, check your state Medicaid agency.
SNAP time limit
In Mississippi, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Missouri
Medicaid work rule
Missouri expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state. In Missouri the rule applies to the Adult Expansion Group (AEG).
Official Missouri Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Missouri, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Montana full notes
Medicaid work rule
Full notes below, from Montana DPHHS.
- Already live since July 1, 2026 for Medicaid Expansion adults 19 to 64.
- At redetermination, show you met the rule or had an exception for 3 months of your review period (not in a row). Applicants: the month before you apply.
- Household income of $580 counts for everyone in the household. Hours do not: you cannot count someone else's hours.
- School: 6 credits is half-time. Below that, each credit counts as about 13 hours a month.
- Montana uses a verification matrix and forms (Appendix A and B) that show what proof is needed. Renewals move to every 6 months starting January 2027.
Official Montana Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Montana, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Nebraska full notes
Medicaid work rule
Full notes below, from Nebraska DHHS.
- Live since May 1, 2026 for Medicaid expansion (Heritage Health Adult) members.
- Members: meet the rule, an exemption, or a temporary hardship in at least one calendar month since your last renewal. Applicants: the month you apply or the month before.
- If DHHS can't verify, it sends a notice and a declaration form. You have 30 days to respond (iServe, mail, phone, or in person).
- Nebraska lists counties with temporary hardship exemptions (disasters or high unemployment) on its page. Check if yours is listed.
- Questions: (855) 632-7633, option 3.
Official Nebraska Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Nebraska, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Nevada
Medicaid work rule
Nevada expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Nevada Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Nevada, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
New Hampshire
Medicaid work rule
New Hampshire expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state. In New Hampshire the rule applies to Granite Advantage. New applicants on January 1, 2027 must show December 2026.
Official New Hampshire Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In New Hampshire, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
New Hampshire's new SNAP work rules started November 1, 2025. If you think you are exempt, call 1-844-ASK-DHHS (1-844-275-3447).
New Jersey
Medicaid work rule
New Jersey expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official New Jersey Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In New Jersey, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
New Mexico
Medicaid work rule
New Mexico expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state. New Mexico's link is a one-page PDF.
Official New Mexico Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In New Mexico, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
New York
Medicaid work rule
New York expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official New York Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In New York, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
New York uses one statewide 3-year period. A new period started October 1, 2026 and runs through September 30, 2029. If you lost SNAP between June 1 and September 30, 2026 for the work rules, you can reapply now at myBenefits.ny.gov (in NYC, ACCESS HRA).
New York says earning $217.50 a week or more counts, even under 20 hours a week. It has an ABAWD Medical Statement and monthly volunteer and training records on its SNAP work rules page.
North Carolina full notes
Medicaid work rule
Full notes below, from NC Medicaid (NCDHHS).
- Starts January 1, 2027 for most adults 19 through 64 in Medicaid expansion. Renewals move to every 6 months.
- At renewal you need only 3 of the 6 months before your recertification. Example from NC: a July 2027 recertification looks at any 3 months from January to June 2027.
- Applying or reapplying is stricter: 3 months in a row before you apply.
- The $580 can include household money, like a spouse's pay, and some non-job income (unemployment counts; child support, SNAP, and veterans' benefits do not).
- Job search counts only if it is less than half of your 80 hours. Half-time school is usually 6 credit hours. Get an enhanced ePASS account to upload proof. Free help: NC Medicaid Ombudsman 1-877-201-3750. Appeals are usually due within 60 days of the letter.
Official North Carolina Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In North Carolina, Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) (SNAP) follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
North Dakota
Medicaid work rule
North Dakota expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official North Dakota Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In North Dakota, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Ohio
Medicaid work rule
Ohio expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state. In Ohio the rule applies to Group VIII. Ohio's page has a clear list of which papers prove each exemption and activity.
SNAP time limit
In Ohio, Food Assistance (SNAP) follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Oklahoma
Medicaid work rule
Oklahoma expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Oklahoma Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Oklahoma, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Oregon
Medicaid work rule
Oregon expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Oregon Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Oregon, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Pennsylvania
Medicaid work rule
Pennsylvania expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Pennsylvania Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Pennsylvania, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Rhode Island
Medicaid work rule
Rhode Island expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Rhode Island Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Rhode Island, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
South Carolina
Medicaid work rule
South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid, so this rule likely does not apply to you. If you have Medicaid, check your state Medicaid agency.
SNAP time limit
In South Carolina, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
South Dakota
Medicaid work rule
South Dakota expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official South Dakota Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In South Dakota, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Tennessee
Medicaid work rule
Tennessee has not expanded Medicaid. TennCare says the few members covered (certain parents and caretakers) already meet the rule based on income, and no paperwork is needed.
Official Tennessee Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Tennessee, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Texas
Medicaid work rule
Texas has not expanded Medicaid, so this rule likely does not apply to you. If you have Medicaid, check your state Medicaid agency.
SNAP time limit
In Texas, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Utah
Medicaid work rule
Utah expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
SNAP time limit
In Utah, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Vermont
Medicaid work rule
Vermont expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official Vermont Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Vermont, 3SquaresVT (SNAP) follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Virginia full notes
Medicaid work rule
Full notes below, from Virginia Medicaid (DMAS).
- Applies only to Medicaid Expansion adults 19 to 64. New applicants from January 1, 2027. Current members are checked at renewals scheduled for March 31, 2027 or later.
- Applicants: the month right before you apply. Members: at least one month since your last renewal or enrollment.
- In 2027, in most cases, what you put on your application or renewal is all you need (self-attestation). Virginia says more will be required in 2028.
- Virginia lists high-unemployment and disaster areas, inpatient care, and travel for serious medical care as exceptions too.
- Update contact info at commonhelp.virginia.gov or call Cover Virginia at 855-242-8282.
Official Virginia Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Virginia, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Virginia DSS says that in some circumstances earning at least $935.25 a month meets the work rule, no matter how many hours you work. Ask your local department of social services if it applies to you.
Washington
Medicaid work rule
Washington expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state. In Washington the rule applies to Apple Health for Adults.
Official Washington Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Washington, Basic Food (SNAP) follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
West Virginia
Medicaid work rule
West Virginia expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group are covered. The federal rules on this page apply. Details, like how many months you need and what proof is accepted, vary by state.
Official West Virginia Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In West Virginia, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Wisconsin
Medicaid work rule
Wisconsin has not expanded Medicaid. The rule applies to BadgerCare Plus adults 19 to 64 without a dependent child under 19 at home. Current members are checked at renewals from March 2027.
Official Wisconsin Medicaid page ↗
SNAP time limit
In Wisconsin, FoodShare (SNAP) follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Wyoming
Medicaid work rule
Wyoming has not expanded Medicaid, so this rule likely does not apply to you. If you have Medicaid, check your state Medicaid agency.
SNAP time limit
In Wyoming, SNAP follows the federal time-limit rules on this page. Ask your SNAP office about local waivers and when your 3-year clock started.
Where this comes from
- CMS fact sheet: Community Engagement interim final rule (CMS-2454-IFC), June 1, 2026
- Medicaid.gov: CMS-2454-IFC overview slides, July 2026
- KFF Quick Take: court decision on medical frailty, November 2, 2026
- Georgetown CCF: what the October 29 ruling does
- Justice in Aging: work rule FAQ for older adults and caregivers
- KFF: states starting early
- USDA FNS: SNAP ABAWD exceptions memo, October 3, 2025
- USDA FNA: SNAP time limit questions and answers #1, June 11, 2026
- USDA FNS: SNAP ABAWD waivers memo, October 3, 2025
- USDA FNA: SNAP work requirements
- 7 CFR 273.24: SNAP time limit (good cause, regaining eligibility, 3-year period)