New work rules begin January 1, 2027 for MaineCare expansion adults. If your MaineCare ends, you can usually get a CoverME.gov plan with savings, but the 90-day clock starts the day coverage ends.
The new rule, in plain words
It applies to MaineCare expansion adults: ages 19 to 64, covered because of income, not on Medicare and not disabled under Social Security rules. Each month you must do one of these: earn at least $580 from work; do 80 hours of work, school, volunteering or a work program, alone or combined; or be enrolled in school at least half time. New applicants are checked for the month before they apply. Current members are checked at renewal, starting with March 2027 renewals.
You are probably exempt if you are
- pregnant, or within 12 months after giving birth
- a parent or caretaker of a child 13 or younger
- caring for an adult with a disability
- receiving SNAP or TANF
- unable to work because of a health condition, or in substance use treatment
- a former foster youth under 26, a veteran with a total disability rating, recently released from incarceration, or American Indian or Alaska Native
Tell MaineCare if an exemption applies. Do not wait for the letter.
If your MaineCare ends
- Keep the letter. It shows the date coverage ends, which starts your 90-day window.
- Call CoverME.gov's Consumer Assistance Center at 1-866-636-0355 (press 4 for a free interpreter), or call Chris at 207-631-3546 and he will help you through it. Since March 2026, special enrollment is handled through the phone line, not online.
- Expect savings. Most households leaving MaineCare qualify for a premium tax credit, and incomes up to 250% of the poverty level get extra cost-sharing reductions on Silver plans.
- Pick a plan before the 90 days run out. Coverage starts the first of the month after you choose.
If you think the decision is wrong
You can ask MaineCare to reconsider, and you can appeal. Keep paying attention to the deadline for CoverME.gov in the meantime, so you are not left without coverage while you wait.
Common questions
How long do I have to get a new plan after losing MaineCare?
90 days from the day your MaineCare coverage ends, through CoverME.gov's special enrollment period for loss of MaineCare.
Who has to meet the MaineCare work requirement?
MaineCare expansion adults aged 19 to 64, starting January 1, 2027. Many people are exempt, including pregnant and postpartum members, parents of young children, people on SNAP or TANF, and people with health conditions that limit work.
Is help with a CoverME.gov plan free?
Yes. A licensed broker is paid by the insurer, and CoverME.gov's phone line and interpreters are free.
Related guides
Checked October 2026. Sources:
Not legal or tax advice. Rules and prices change; if a number here affects you, call 207-631-3546 and we will check it for your household for free.
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