Understanding Nebraska Medicaid Work Requirements

Beginning May 1, 2026, able-bodied adults enrolled in Nebraska Medicaid Expansion must meet Medicaid work requirements to qualify for or maintain coverage.

Many individuals may already meet these requirements through their current job, education, or other qualifying activities. Others may qualify for an exemption.

If the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) needs additional information to determine your eligibility, they will contact you directly. It is important to respond promptly to any requests for information to avoid interruptions in your Medicaid coverage.

There are several ways you may satisfy the monthly work requirement.

Qualify for an Exemption

Some individuals are exempt from Medicaid work requirements altogether.

Common exemptions include:

• Pregnancy
• Disability
• Serious medical condition
• Tribal affiliation
• Recent incarceration
• Other qualifying circumstances

DHHS maintains a complete list of available exemptions.

Qualify for a Temporary Hardship Exemption

Certain temporary life circumstances may excuse you from the work requirement, including situations such as:

• Hospitalization
• Living in a county with high unemployment
• Other qualifying temporary hardships

Additional temporary hardship exemptions are available through DHHS.

Work, Volunteer, or Participate in a Work Program

Complete 80 hours per month through one or a combination of the following:

• Working
• Volunteering
• Participating in an approved work program

You can combine these activities to reach the required 80 hours each month.

Attend School or an Apprenticeship

If you are enrolled in school or an apprenticeship:

• At least half-time: You automatically meet the work requirement.
• Less than half-time: Your school hours may be combined with other qualifying work activities to reach 80 hours each month.

Meet the Monthly Earnings Requirement

You may also qualify by earning at least $580 per month through employment, even if you work fewer than 80 hours.

For seasonal workers, eligibility may be based on an average monthly income of at least $580 over the previous six months.

Need More Information?

For complete details about Medicaid work requirements, exemptions, hardship qualifications, and reporting requirements, visit the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services:

Nebraska DHHS Medicaid Work Requirements
https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/WorkRequirements.aspx

If DHHS contacts you requesting additional information, be sure to respond by the deadline to help protect your Medicaid coverage.