The Affordable Care Act (ACA) provision giving former foster youth Medicaid coverage until age 26 is still in effect and was even strengthened by the SUPPORT Act in 2023, making it easier for youth to stay covered, even if they move states, as long as they were in foster care at 18+ and enrolled in Medicaid. This key benefit provides crucial health stability as youth transition out of care, ensuring they can access care for physical and mental health needs.

Key Details:

• Automatic Eligibility: The ACA makes eligible former foster youth categorically eligible for Medicaid until age 26, regardless of income.
• Eligibility Requirements: You must have been in foster care on or after your 18th birthday and enrolled in Medicaid at that time.
• Interstate Coverage: Thanks to the SUPPORT Act (effective 2023), you can keep your coverage even if you move to a different state, removing a major barrier that existed before.
• State Variations: While the federal rule covers youth in the state where they aged out, some states (like Michigan) offer broader coverage for youth from any state.

In Summary: The ACA's foster care provision remains a vital part of the healthcare system, providing stability for young adults aging out of foster care, with recent federal changes simplifying access and ensuring continuity.

Youth who turned 18 while in foster care are eligible to receive Medicaid until age 26 under the Affordable Care Act.

• If the student is under age 18, Medicaid coverage will automatically continue until they turn 26. Case workers are required to talk about this with youth as a part of transition planning.
• For youth between the ages of 18-21 enrolled in Young Adult Voluntary Foster Care (YAVFC), medicaid will automatically continue.
• For youth  between 18-21 NOT enrolled in YAVFC, a new application must be submitted.
• Youth between the ages of 21-25 need to submit a new application.
• An application may be submitted at any time during the year.

To apply, visit the Michigan Bridges website. There, youth will be asked to complete an application online. It should take about 25 minutes, and youth might find it helpful to sit with a supportive person to help with any questions while they complete the application.

A few days later, the youth will receive a letter in the mail confirming coverage and giving instructions on receiving a health coverage card.

If you have any questions, or youth receive any messages that say they have been denied coverage,reach out to Fostering Success Michigan so we can help get you in touch with someone who can help! FSM@fosteringsuccessmichigan.com