We want to make sure you have accurate, up-to-date information about changes coming to Colorado’s Medicaid program, Health First Colorado. These changes come from a new federal law (H.R. 1). They will affect some people, but not everyone, and not everyone will be affected in the same way.
Here’s what we know so far, and what we’re still waiting to learn.
What’s Changing
Starting January 1, 2027, some adults ages 19 to 64 will need to show they are working, volunteering, in school, or in a job training program for at least 80 hours a month (or earning at least $580 a month) to keep their Health First Colorado coverage. Some members may also need to renew their coverage every six months instead of once a year.
Who Is Likely Exempt
Many people connected to our program may already qualify for an exemption from these new work requirements, including:
- People who are “medically frail” – this includes people with a physical, intellectual, or developmental disability that makes daily activities difficult, a serious mental health condition, a substance use disorder, or another serious ongoing medical condition. Please note that the definition of medical frailty and the process for proving your exemption is not yet finalized by the federal government.
- People receiving SSI or SSDI
- People enrolled in Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) or a Medicaid Buy-In program
- Parents or caregivers of a child age 13 or younger
- Caregivers of a person with a disability, of any age
- Adults age 65 or older
Important: Being exempt is not automatic just because you fit one of these categories. The state needs to have this information on file, or you may still get a letter asking you to prove your exemption. This is one reason it’s so important to keep your contact information updated (see below).
What We Don’t Know Yet
There is still a lot we’re waiting on the state and federal government to clarify, including:
- The exact final rules for how “medical frailty” will be verified and documented
- Whether some information will transfer automatically (for example, from Social Security or disability records) or whether individuals will need to submit documentation themselves
- The full details of the notification process, and exactly when letters will be mailed to different groups of members
- How exemptions will be handled if someone’s situation changes
We will share updates as soon as more information becomes available, and we do not want anyone to make assumptions about their own status until we know more.
What You Can Do Now
✔ Update your contact info and communication preferences
Do this online with Colorado PEAK: co.gov/PEAK.
OR in person or by calling your county human services department
✔ Watch for official letters, texts, or emails from Health First Colorado
Do not ignore these, even if you believe you are exempt.
✔ Respond quickly if you receive a request for information. This includes ongoing requests for enrollment and financial information that you receive annually.
Delays in responding could put your coverage at risk.
For the latest official updates, visit: HealthFirstColorado.gov/Changes
For any questions about health care benefits and billing, call the Health First Colorado Member Contact Center. Their phone number is 1-800-221-3943.
We know this can feel confusing or stressful, and we’re here to help. We will continue sending updates as we learn more.
