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H.R.1 Federal Work Requirements
Changes are coming to health coverage in our community, and we want to make sure you have everything you need to stay covered. Under the federal H.R.1 law signed by President Trump, new work and volunteer requirements will take effect starting January 1, 2027, for many adults between the ages of 19 and 64 who have QUEST (Medicaid) coverage. This page is designed to keep you informed, guide you through the upcoming updates, and help you understand how these rules apply to you or your family.
What Is Happening?
Starting January 1, 2027:
New Rules: Individuals in the impacted group will need to meet new requirements to keep their health coverage.
More Frequent Checks: Renewal checks will now occur every 6 months instead of once a year for individuals in the impacted group.
Who Does This Affect?
Impacted Group: Most adults between the ages of 19 to 64.
Exemptions: Some people will not need to meet these new requirements because they are exempt. This includes children (0-18), older adults (65+), and others.
For a full list of exemptions, visit Med-QUEST’s website at http://medquest.hawaii.gov/hr1.
How to Meet the New Requirements (if you are impacted)
Receive household income of $580 or more.
At least 80 hours of qualifying activities, which may include a combination of work, volunteer, certain caregiving, and school credit hours.
Enrolled at least half-time in an educational program.
When You Must Meet the Requirements
New Applicants: The month before you apply.
Renewing Members: At least 1 of the 6 months before you renew.
The Renewal Process
Notification: Med-QUEST will check your eligibility first and will send a notice in the mail, letting you know if they need more information.
KEEP YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION UP-TO-DATE
If your address or phone number is outdated, you might miss important notifications from Med-QUEST or your health plan. You can quickly update your details or register a new profile online in under five minutes by visiting the official Hawaii Med-QUEST portal.
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Understanding H.R.1
President Trump signed H.R.1 into law, which created new federal requirements for most adults between the ages of 19-64 in order to keep Med-QUEST coverage.
These new work/community engagement requirements take effect January 1, 2027. Some people will not need to meet these requirements because they are exempt.
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FAQs
What is H.R.1?
H.R.1 refers to new federal Medicaid requirements that may affect eligibility, renewal processes, community engagement requirements, reporting obligations, and member retention activities for certain Medicaid populations. AlohaCare is working closely with the State of Hawaii Medicaid program (MQD), community health centers, providers, and other partners to support implementation.
Why is AlohaCare involved?
AlohaCare supports members in maintaining coverage and accessing care. The organization is evaluating operational workflows, member communications, data sharing processes, outreach strategies, and partnerships that help members navigate new requirements.
What are community engagement requirements?
Community engagement requirements under H.R.1 ask certain Medicaid members to complete qualifying activities—such as work, volunteering, education, or caregiving—to maintain coverage.
Why are these changes happening?
Beginning in January 1, 2027, affected Medicaid members must meet community engagement requirements by:
- Working,
- Participating in community service/volunteering,
- Attending school, or
- Meeting certain income thresholds.
Additionally, eligibility renewals will occur every six months instead of annually for the affected population.
When do the changes take effect?
The changes are scheduled to begin on January 1, 2027. Members will receive communications from Med-QUEST, including notices regarding renewal requirements and next steps.
How do I keep my coverage?
Affected members may maintain coverage by:
- Working, volunteering, and/or attending school for at least 80 hours per month, or
- Earning at least $580 per month before taxes.
Members should also keep their Med-QUEST account and contact information current to receive renewal notices and instructions.
At AlohaCare, Your Health is in Caring Hands
AlohaCare is a nonprofit health plan created in 1994 by Hawaiʻi’s community health centers and Queen Emma Clinics. We support people of all ages who qualify for government-funded health plans. We are proud to be the second largest Medicaid and Medicare health plan in Hawaiʻi, serving families across the state.