Renew your Medicaid coverage

Rhode Island has restarted renewals for Medicaid members. The renewal process is how the state confirms that people still qualify for Medicaid coverage. Renewals usually occur every year. They were paused during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Now the federal government is requiring states to start renewing members’ eligibility again.

The state expects the process to take about a year. So you may hear from them about your renewal anytime between April 2023 and April 2024.

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Here’s what you can do now make sure you get the best benefit you qualify for:

  • Make sure the state has up-to-date contact information for you. This includes your mailing address, phone number and email address. The state will send your renewal notice and other information about your eligibility by mail.
  • Let the state know about any household changes, such as changes to your income, disability status or family size.
  • Create a HealthyRhode account if you don’t already have one. This is the fastest way to update your information. You can also update your information and get the latest updates on the HealthyRhode mobile app.
  • Read all mail from the state. You may need to take action by a due date to keep your coverage.

The state will send you a notice in the mail two months before your deadline to renew.  This notice will be on yellow paper.

  • If the state is able to confirm that you are still eligible through a review of state and federal sources, they may auto renew you. If they do, your notice will tell you that your coverage was renewed. If this case, you don’t need to do anything.
  • If the state cannot confirm your information electronically, your notice will say that they need more info from you. The notice will be printed on yellow paper. You will need to fill out your renewal application by the due date on your notice.
  • After you submit, the state may send you another notice asking you to provide any necessary documents to support your application. Make sure to respond to all requests by the deadline. 
  • If your coverage is going to end because you are no longer eligible, the notice will include info about resources available to you, and how to apply for a health plan through HealthSource RI.

Don’t lose your Medicaid coverage because you missed a deadline. Make sure you open all mail you get from the state.

Here’s a checklist to help you complete your application:  

  • Take action by the deadline listed in the letter
  • Complete your renewal application one of these ways:
    • Online – Login to your HealthSource RI account or create an account if you don’t already have one
    • By phone – Call HealthSource RI at 855-657-4774 (TTY: 888-657-3173), Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 6 pm. A representative can help you.
    • By mail – Use the renewal application mailed to you or go to the DHS website and download an application. Complete and mail it to:
      • RI Department of Human Services
        P.O. Box 8709
        Cranston, RI 02920-8787
    • In person – Visit HealthSource RI at:

 

  • Look for mail about your renewal. The state may ask for documents from you, such as
    • Proof of change of address
    • New social security numbers (SSNs) for people applying
    • Federal tax returns, if you file
    • Changes in health coverage offered
    • Changes to immigration or citizenship status
    • Pay stubs or employer statements

 

  • Get help filling out the application if you need it. Be sure to rely on trusted sources, such as:
    • HealthSource RI
    • Enrollment assisters (EAs)
    • A financial counselor or EA at your provider’s office
    • Note: Never share your personal data or documents with people who are not trusted sources. EAs will never ask you to pay for helping you complete your application.
  • Check your mail. The state will send you a letter telling your whether your coverage was renewed.

When the state renews your eligibility, your Tufts Health Plan coverage will continue.

If you are no longer eligible for Rhode Island Medicaid, visit HealthSource RI to find other health coverage options.

Call HealthSource RI at 855-657-4774 (TTY: 888-657-3173), Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 6 pm.