Important Update – Child Health Plus Continuous Eligibility Ending for Children Under Age 6
6/18/2026
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Posted by Provider Relations
Fidelis Care would like to inform providers of an important update from New York State regarding Child Health Plus (CHPlus) eligibility requirements.
What’s Changing?
Effective July 1, 2026, continuous eligibility beyond 12 months will no longer be permitted for children from birth through age six enrolled in Child Health Plus.
This change aligns with federal guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which no longer allows states to approve or renew waivers that extend eligibility beyond 12 months for children in Medicaid or CHIP programs.
What This Means for Members
Beginning July 1, 2026:
- Children enrolled in CHPlus will be subject to 12-month continuous eligibility only.
- At the end of each 12-month period, members will undergo the standard renewal process.
- NY State of Health will attempt administrative renewals using available data sources.
- If administrative renewal is not successful, members will receive a notice and must complete a manual renewal to maintain coverage.
If renewal is not completed or the child is determined ineligible, coverage will end at the close of the eligibility period.
Member Communications
NY State of Health will issue renewal notices informing families of:
- The end of extended continuous eligibility
- The requirement to complete annual renewals
- Steps needed to update applications and maintain coverage
These notices emphasize that children must renew coverage every year and that failure to act may result in loss of coverage.
Fidelis Care is available to help members renew and answer any questions they may have. Contact Fidelis Care by:
What Providers Should Do
Providers play a critical role in helping families maintain coverage. Please:
- Encourage families to open and respond to all renewal notices
- Remind patients to complete renewals on time
- Direct members to NY State of Health for assistance with updates or questions
- Be aware that some patients may experience coverage changes or gaps if renewals are not completed
Need More Information?
For additional questions, or if we can be of assistance in any way, please contact your Fidelis Care Provider Engagement Account Manager. To find your designated representative, please visit Contact Your Designated Provider Relations Specialist. Thank you for being a valued Fidelis Care partner in the provision of quality care.