If you have Medicaid/FAMIS health coverage it’s important to know how to renew it so you can continue to receive the healthcare you need. Renewing your coverage is like renewing a subscription or membership – it’s a way to make sure you can keep using it without any gaps. In this blog post, we will break down the steps to renew your Medicaid/FAMIS coverage in simple terms, so you can understand and take action with ease. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Automatic Renewal Before your renewal is due, Medicaid/FAMIS will try to renew your coverage automatically. You may receive a letter letting you know that your coverage has been renewed, and your Medicaid health coverage is all set!
Step 2: More Information Needed If you are not automatically renewed, you may receive a letter letting you know that Medicaid/FAMIS needs more information from you. This could be in the form of a renewal form or a checklist.
Step 3: Take Action If you receive a renewal form, you will need to take action as soon as possible. The form will have a due date printed on it. You have multiple options to renew:
- Call Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 (TTY: 1-888-221-1590)
- Go online to CommonHelp.virginia.gov
- Return the paper form in person, by mail, or by fax
The renewal form will have all the information you need to submit your renewal by phone, online, or on paper.
Step 4: Complete Verifications If you receive a checklist, it will tell you exactly what verifications Medicaid/FAMIS needs from you, such as paystubs. You can return your verifications in person, by mail, or by fax, or through CommonHelp. Be sure to pay attention to the due date. If you need more time or have difficulties getting the information, reach out as soon as possible so Medicaid/FAMIS can work with you to complete your renewal.
Step 5: Review of Your Case Once Medicaid/FAMIS receives your renewal form and verifications (if needed), they will review your case. You will receive a letter after the review is complete, letting you know the outcome of your coverage. If you are no longer eligible or have limited coverage and do not have Medicare, your information may be sent to the Marketplace for further review for other coverage and/or Advanced Premium Tax Credits. If you think there was a mistake, there are appeal rights listed on your letter. You can also reapply by phone, online, or on paper if your situation changes.
Step 6: Return Paperwork It is important to return your renewal form or verifications, even if you think you may not be eligible. There are two reasons for this:
- You may be eligible for coverage or other programs that provide limited coverage, and you may not be aware of it.
- Medicaid/FAMIS cannot send your information to the Marketplace for review if they cannot review your case.
If you do not return your paperwork, your health coverage may end due to “failure to renew,” and you will receive a letter informing you when your benefits will close.
Step 7: Three Months Grace Period If your coverage ends due to “failure to renew,” you have three months after the closure to return the form or verifications for Medicaid/FAMIS to review your benefits. You do not have to reapply during this grace period. After three months, if Medicaid/FAMIS does not hear from you, you will need to reapply if you want them to review your eligibility again.
Renewing your Medicaid/FAMIS health coverage is an important process to ensure you continue to have access to the healthcare you need. By following these simple steps and submitting the required paperwork, you can maintain your coverage and stay protected. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Medicaid/FAMIS or Cover Virginia for help.