Starting on July 1, 2026, the Montana Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS) will begin implementing work requirements for certain Montana Medicaid members. This new regulation was included in the House Reconciliation bill (H.R. 1), also known as “H.R. 1” or the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” that Congress passed in the summer of 2025.
Since this is the first time work requirements are allowed under federal law, and since Montana is still adjusting the process and requirements, this may be a confusing time for Medicaid-covered patients.
New rules will require anyone in the adult Medicaid Expansion program to work 80 hours a month for at least 3 of the last 6 months. (If you’re applying for Medicaid coverage as an “able-bodied” adult for the first time, you’ll need to document that you worked 80 hours the month before enrolling.) There will be exemptions for caregivers of the elderly, family members with disabilities, or children 13 and under, American Indians (based on IHS eligibility), those deemed medically frail, and pregnant or postpartum women.
There will be paperwork requirements for both individuals who worked the required hours and those who qualify for an exemption.
What to look out for
For the next six months and beyond, anyone covered by Medicaid should pay close attention to any letters they receive from Montana Medicaid or the Montana Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS). Renewal packets might arrive in a plain white envelope that can be easy to overlook or mistake for junk mail. Since many people are unsure which Medicaid program they are enrolled in, it’s very important that you keep an eye out for this mail, as it will be essential for maintaining your coverage. These letters may be long and confusing. Don’t panic.
We are here to help.
Our Social Work team is available to meet with established patients during clinic hours. Patients can call our main line at 406-610-8181 to schedule an appointment or stop by for a walk-in visit. We can help guide you through the documentation process.
We also host a monthly Medicaid support event called Navigation Medicaid Together. It takes place on the third Tuesday of every month from 2-5 pm at our Creamery Building located at 401 Railway Street West. During this event, multiple staff members are available to assist with Medicaid renewals, applications, and other insurance questions, making it easier to get help. Check out our flyer for more information. (Link)
What to know
It’s very important to keep your mailing address up to date, so you receive important notices and renewal packets. People can update their address here: Montana DPHHS Change of Address Form. We can also assist with updating information during a visit or at our monthly Medicaid support event.
No one should lose coverage between July 1 and September 30. While this will be the test period for DPHHS, you still need to complete your paperwork, and we can help you with that. Partnership Health Center is committed to ensuring people have access to the health care they need and the insurance coverage they are eligible for. We are here to help you keep your health insurance and provide the outstanding care we are known for.
