Losing Medicaid can feel like a punch to the gut. One day you have access to doctors and prescriptions, and the next you are wondering how you are going to afford even a basic check-up. If you have just lost your Medicaid benefits, you are not alone. Millions of Americans are facing the same situation due to changes in eligibility reviews across the country. That is why it is so important to explore your options for health coverage now before medical bills start piling up.
The good news is this: there are still ways to stay covered. It might feel overwhelming right now, but understanding your next steps can help you move forward with confidence. This article will walk you through what to do next, what your options are, and how to get health coverage now.
Why Medicaid Coverage is Ending for So Many People
During the COVID-19 pandemic, a rule was put in place that allowed people to stay on Medicaid even if their income or circumstances changed. This helped keep millions of people insured through a difficult time. But now that the public health emergency has ended, states have gone back to checking who still qualifies.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, a rule was put in place that allowed people to stay on Medicaid even if their income or circumstances changed.
But here’s what matters most: losing Medicaid opens a special window for you to find a new plan, and the clock starts ticking as soon as your coverage ends.
What You’ll Need to Apply
Before you apply for a new plan, it helps to gather a few things to get started with health coverage now:
- Dates of when your Medicaid ended
- Social Security numbers or immigration documents for household members
- Proof of income (like pay stubs or tax returns)
- An estimate of your income for the rest of the year
If you’re unsure about any of this, trained licensed agents from A+ Insurance Designers can walk you through it with a free consultation.
What Are Your Options?
Here are three of the most common choices after losing Medicaid
1. Affordable Care Act (ACA) Plans
These are insurance plans that you can buy through the federal or state marketplace. Many people are surprised to find out they qualify for subsidies that make these plans very affordable. The amount you pay depends on your income and household size.
Even if you didn’t qualify for subsidies before, your situation may have changed. It’s worth checking again. Some people get a Silver-tier plan with a monthly premium as low as zero dollars and reduced copays.
2. Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
If your children were covered by Medicaid, they might still be eligible for CHIP. This program is designed for kids in families who earn too much for Medicaid but still need support. CHIP often covers doctor visits, dental care, vision, and prescriptions at little or no cost.
3. Short-Term or Temporary Plans
These are private plans that can start quickly and last for a few months. They may not cover as much as ACA plans and might not cover pre-existing conditions, but they can help in a pinch while you figure out a longer-term solution.
What Is the Best Option for You to Get Health Coverage Now?
Out of all the options you might consider after losing Medicaid, ACA Marketplace plans are often the most practical and dependable choice. These plans are built to provide broad, consistent coverage, making them a strong next step for people who are in between programs or dealing with sudden changes.
So why do ACA plans stand out?
First, they offer coverage for a wide variety of essential services. That includes preventive care like annual checkups, prescriptions you rely on, emergency room visits, and even mental health support.
Second, these plans are available in every state, which means no matter where you live, there’s likely an option that fits your needs.
But what really makes ACA plans appealing is affordability. A large number of people qualify for financial help based on their income. These subsidies can lower monthly premiums significantly. In some cases, people end up with plans that cost nothing per month.
Another big advantage is timing. If you just lost Medicaid, you may be able to apply for an ACA plan right away through what is called a Special Enrollment Period. This window is open for 60 days after your Medicaid coverage ends, as long as you meet a few basic requirements. You can apply directly through HealthCare.gov by providing proof that your Medicaid ended and showing your current income.
If you’re not sure whether you qualify, don’t try to figure it all out on your own. It’s a good idea to connect with someone who knows the system. Our licensed enrollment assister can help you check your eligibility, explain your options in plain language, and guide you toward a plan that actually fits your situation and your budget.
Get Health Coverage Now and Don’t Wait Too Long
Remember, the Special Enrollment Period only lasts 60 days from the day you lose Medicaid. If you miss that window, you might have to wait until November to apply again unless you qualify for another special circumstance.
It’s better to explore your options now than to rush later, or worse, go without insurance altogether. Medical costs without coverage can be extremely high, even for something as simple as a sprained ankle or a prescription refill
How to Find the Right Help to Get Health Coverage Now?
If this feels like a lot to process, you don’t have to handle it alone. A+ Insurance Designers has licensed agents who help people in situations like yours every day. Our team can guide you through the steps, explain your coverage options in simple terms, and help you apply with confidence. The best part is that the help is free.
We also speak multiple languages including English, Spanish, and Vietnamese so you can get support in the language you’re most comfortable with.
You can contact us to find out what plans you qualify for. It only takes a few minutes, and we will make sure you do not miss any important benefits or savings.
Final Thoughts
Losing Medicaid is stressful, but it’s not the end of your health coverage. You still have choices, and many of them are more affordable and flexible than you might think. The key is acting quickly and making sure you don’t miss your chance to enroll.
Your health matters, and so does your peace of mind. Don’t wait until you get sick or need care to start figuring things out. Take a deep breath, look at your options, and move forward one step at a time.
You’ve got this—and help is out there.
