Thousands in Massachusetts begin losing their health insurance tomorrow; here’s why

Massachusetts officials estimate 225,000 to 350,000 Massachusetts residents could lose their health insurance, primarily MassHealth, due to new work requirements and other changes in the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Some of those residents will begin losing their coverage on Sunday.

According to the Massachusetts Health Connector, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients will no longer be considered lawfully present by the federal government for the purpose of enrolling in Marketplace coverage. Thousands of DACA recipients who currently have coverage in the marketplace will have their coverage end on Sunday.

Also, currently, Massachusetts residents who are not eligible for Medicaid due to their immigration status can qualify for federal Advance Premium Tax Credits and ConnectorCare if their income is below 100 percent of the FPL. The Massachusetts Health Connector states that due to the federal law changes, beginning January 1st, subsidized health plans will no longer be available for people with incomes below the federal poverty level. If your income is below $15,650 for an individual or $32,150 for a family of four, you will no longer qualify for APTCs. As a result, ConnectorCare eligibility will also end for individuals in this income range.

Finally, Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, which have helped lower monthly health insurance costs for many people since 2021, are set to expire on December 31, 2025, unless Congress takes action to extend them. Many people will still qualify for financial help, but the amount will be smaller. If your household income is above 400 percent FPL, you will no longer qualify for financial help. For 2026, this is about $62,600 for a single person, $84,240 for a couple, or $128,400 for a family of four.

For the first time, a nationwide work requirement is created for Medicaid (MassHealth in Massachusetts). Most adults from 19–64 years old on MassHealth will be required to work, volunteer, or participate in a work program for at least 80 hours a month.