NJ FamilyCare Changes Coming in 2027: What Patients Need to Know

Published: September 2026

If you or a family member has NJ FamilyCare (New Jersey Medicaid), you may have questions about changes coming in 2027.

Beginning January 1, 2027, some NJ FamilyCare members will have new requirements. These changes may affect how often you renew your coverage, whether you need to complete certain work or community activities, and how far back Medicaid can cover medical expenses.

The good news is that you do not have to figure this out alone. Understanding the changes now can help you avoid surprises later.

What Is Changing With NJ FamilyCare in 2027?

The New Jersey Department of Human Services has identified three major changes that will affect many adults ages 19 through 64 who receive NJ FamilyCare through the Medicaid expansion.

1. Some Adults Will Have New Work or Activity Requirements

Beginning January 1, 2027, some NJ FamilyCare adults may need to complete 80 hours each month of work or another approved activity.

Activities may include:

• Working

• Job training

• Volunteering

• Community service

• Attending school or an educational program

In some situations, household income of at least $580 per month may also satisfy the requirement.

However, not everyone will have to meet this requirement.

There are exclusions and exceptions for certain people based on their health, family situation, benefits, or other circumstances.

For example, certain people who are pregnant or recently gave birth, care for a young child or a person with a disability, receive SSI or Medicare, or participate in certain substance use treatment programs may be excluded or exempt.

Because the rules can be different for each person, it is important to read your NJ FamilyCare notices carefully.  

2. Some Members Will Need to Renew Medicaid Every 6 Months

Another important change is the renewal schedule.

Some adults who receive NJ FamilyCare through the Medicaid expansion will need to renew their coverage every 6 months instead of every 12 months.

This means you may receive renewal information more often than you have in the past.

Do not ignore a renewal letter.

Even if you believe you are still eligible for Medicaid, you should respond to NJ FamilyCare and provide any information they request before the deadline.

The state has indicated that the first current group with a March 2027 renewal will begin the renewal process in January 2027.

How Do I Know If This Applies to Me?

Some NJ FamilyCare members may see "ABP" on their health plan card. ABP stands for Alternative Benefit Plan and can help identify people who received coverage through the Medicaid expansion.

NJ FamilyCare also provides an Activity Requirements Checker that members can use to see whether the new activity requirements may apply to them.

3. Medicaid May Cover Less Time Before You Apply

There is also a change to retroactive Medicaid coverage.

For Expansion Adults, coverage may be available for only one month before the date you apply, instead of the previous three-month period.

For other Medicaid members, the retroactive coverage period will be two months.

Because of this change, it is especially important to apply for NJ FamilyCare or renew your coverage as soon as possible. Waiting could result in medical bills that are not covered.

What Should NJ FamilyCare Members Do Now?

You don't need to wait until January 2027 to prepare.

Keep Your Contact Information Updated

Make sure NJ FamilyCare has your current:

• Mailing address

• Phone number

• Email address

If NJ FamilyCare sends an important notice to an old address, you could miss a deadline.

Watch Your Mail

Starting in 2026, NJ FamilyCare began sending information to Expansion Adults about the upcoming changes.

Open and read letters from NJ FamilyCare—even if you think your coverage is not changing. 

Don't Miss Your Deadline

Missing a deadline could cause your Medicaid coverage to end, even if you may still qualify.

If your coverage ends because information was not provided, there is a 90-day reconsideration period. Acting within 60 days can help reduce the risk of a gap in coverage.

What If I Don't Understand My NJ FamilyCare Letter?

You're not alone.

Medicaid notices can contain a lot of information and may be difficult to understand. If you receive a letter and aren't sure what it means, ask someone you trust for help.

You can contact NJ FamilyCare directly at:

NJ FamilyCare

1-800-701-0710

TTY: 711

You can also use the NJ FamilyCare website and the Activity Requirements Checker for additional information.

How These Changes Could Affect Your Mental Health Care

Keeping your health insurance active is important when you are receiving ongoing mental health or substance use treatment.

A lapse in Medicaid coverage could create unexpected costs or interruptions in services. That's why we encourage our patients to pay attention to NJ FamilyCare notices and take action before their coverage deadline.

If you are receiving services from Adult Family Health Services, please talk with your care team if you have questions about how an insurance change may affect your services.

We want our patients to have the information they need to stay connected to the care and support they need.

Don't Wait Until Your Coverage Is at Risk

The upcoming NJ FamilyCare changes may feel confusing, but taking a few simple steps now can make things easier:

✔ Keep your contact information updated.

✔ Watch for NJ FamilyCare letters.

✔ Read your renewal notices.

✔ Complete any requested information by the deadline.

✔ Ask questions if you don't understand something.

Most importantly, don't ignore a letter from NJ FamilyCare.

Your coverage and access to healthcare may depend on taking action on time.