Medicaid Unwinding Resources, Information & Updates
Since March of 2020, NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid has followed special rules related to the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE). These rules have allowed NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid members to keep their health coverage, even if they no longer qualified – for example, if their resources were above the allowable limit, which for most people with IDD, is $2,000. However, Congress recently passed legislation that requires state Medicaid programs to go back to the rules that were used prior to the start of the COVID pandemic. This process, which is known as "Medicaid Unwinding," will last for 12 months. Therefore, each month, starting on April 1, 2023, 1/12th of the NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid beneficiaries will receive a Medicaid redetermination application. The exception to the requirement of completing a Medicaid redetermination application is individuals with IDD who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
As part of this review, many members will receive mail from the State of New Jersey or their County Board of Social Services. Members will have to provide or confirm additional information so NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid can decide whether they still qualify for healthcare coverage. Members who do not respond to NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid mail may lose their coverage.
Resources
Upcoming Medicaid Unwinding Presentations
NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid and Individuals with IDD: Preparing for the Start of Medicaid Redeterminations
Saturday, March 25
10 am to 2 pm
Join NJCDD on March 25 from 10AM to 12PM for information on Medicaid and different Medicaid categories in New Jersey. You will learn what you need to do now so that the Medicaid redetermination process goes smoothly. We will discuss potential areas of confusion and what to do if you encounter a problem with your loved one’s Medicaid redetermination. Beverly Roberts, Director, Mainstreaming Medical Care at The Arc of New Jersey will be our guest presenter and will answer your questions. We will also be joined by Lee Ginsberg from Community Health Law Project and Michael Brower from Disability Rights New Jersey to discuss the appeal process. This forum is directed at families with individuals who are 18 years old and up. Register here.