CMS Newsroom · April 26, 2026 · Primary source
CMS Issues Guidance to Implement New Limits on Federal Medicaid and CHIP Funding for Certain Noncitizens
What the document says
CMS issued guidance to prepare states for an upcoming statutory change that will limit the ability to claim federal matching funds for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for certain noncitizens. The guidance addresses individuals who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals, or who fall into specific noncitizen categories identified in statute.
The statutory change will take effect beginning October 1, 2026. CMS states that the guidance is intended to ensure states understand their responsibility in implementing this change to federal matching fund eligibility.
The guidance addresses federal financial participation (federal matching funds) for Medicaid and CHIP coverage of noncitizens. The limitation applies to individuals who do not meet citizenship, national, or specific statutory noncitizen category requirements for federal funding eligibility.
What this may mean
State Medicaid and CHIP agencies will need to review their eligibility systems and procedures to operationalize the federal matching fund limitations for certain noncitizen populations by the October 1, 2026 effective date. Managed care organizations operating Medicaid and CHIP plans may need to coordinate with state agencies regarding enrollment and claims processing changes tied to citizenship and immigration status verification.
Informational only. Not legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional familiar with your specific facts before relying on any item.
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