Change is coming to the way healthcare works here in Nebraska, and we want to make sure you and your family are ready. At African Immigrant Family Services (AIFS), we know how much you rely on Medicaid to keep your loved ones healthy. Whether it’s a routine check-up for yourself or managing a long-term health condition, having that coverage is a huge weight off your shoulders.
Starting May 1st, 2026, the state of Nebraska is introducing new reporting rules for adults who receive Medicaid expansion benefits. We’ve heard from many of you in the community who are a bit worried or confused about what this means. Don't worry: our team is here to walk you through it every step of the way.
This guide will break down exactly what is changing, who it affects, and how AIFS can help you stay covered. We speak both English and French, so if you’re more comfortable explaining your situation in French, we are ready to listen and assist.
What is Changing on May 1st?
In short, Nebraska is implementing "work requirements" for certain people on Medicaid. To keep your health insurance, the state will now ask you to show that you are participating in at least 80 hours of qualifying activities each month.
This might sound like a lot of paperwork, but for many of you, you are likely already doing things that count! The goal is to make sure you report these hours correctly so there is no "gap" in your insurance. If you don't report these hours or qualify for an exemption, you could risk losing your healthcare benefits.
Who Does This Apply To?
Not everyone on Medicaid has to follow these new rules. The requirements specifically target:
- Adults between the ages of 19 and 64.
- Those who are part of the Medicaid expansion group (this usually means adults who qualified for Medicaid based on their income levels after the state expanded the program a few years ago).
If you are over 65, under 19, or receiving Medicaid for a different reason (like a permanent disability determined by Social Security), these specific "work requirements" might not apply to you. However, it is always a good idea to check. You can visit our About Us page to learn more about how we help families navigate these specific categories.
What Counts as a "Qualifying Activity"?
The state isn't just looking for a standard 9-to-5 office job. They recognize that there are many ways to contribute to the community and prepare for the future. You can combine different activities to reach your 80 hours per month.
Here are the most common things that count:
- Employment: This includes full-time and part-time jobs. Even if you are working two small jobs, as long as the total hours add up, you are good to go.
- Self-Employment: Many of our community members run their own small businesses or do "gig" work. This counts! You just need to keep good records of your income and hours.
- Job Search Activities: If you are currently looking for work, the time you spend applying and interviewing can often count toward your hours.
- Education and Training: Are you taking classes at a community college? Are you in an English as a Second Language (ESL) program or a GED class? Going to school at least half-time usually meets the requirement.
- Vocational Training: This includes apprenticeships or learning a specific trade like plumbing, nursing assistance, or mechanics.
- Volunteering and Community Service: This is a big one! Giving back to your community counts as a work activity.
How AIFS Helps You Meet Your Hours
If you are worried that you aren’t working enough hours to meet the 80-hour goal, AIFS is here to help.
One of the best ways to meet your requirements is through volunteering. We are always looking for passionate members of the African immigrant community to help with our programs. Not only does this help you keep your health insurance, but it also builds your resume and connects you with your neighbors.
You can check out our Volunteer page to see what opportunities we have available right now. We can help you track your hours and provide the documentation you need for the state.
Are There Any Exemptions?
Yes! There are several reasons why you might be excused from these requirements. If you fall into one of these categories, you still need to report your status to the state, but you won't have to prove the 80 hours of work each month.
Exemptions include:
- Parents and Caregivers: If you are the primary caregiver for a child under the age of 14, you are likely exempt.
- Medically Frail: If you have a physical or mental condition that prevents you from working, you may be exempt. You will usually need a doctor’s note or medical certification for this.
- Pregnancy: Expecting mothers are exempt from these requirements.
- Students: As mentioned, full-time students are generally covered.
- Substance Use Treatment: If you are currently in a treatment program, that time counts toward your requirements or makes you exempt.
Navigating these exemptions can be tricky, especially if English is your second language. Our bilingual staff can help you talk to your doctor or fill out the forms needed to prove your exemption.
The "Bilingual Edge": Support in English and French
At African Immigrant Family Services, we understand that language should never be a barrier to healthcare. For many of our West African neighbors, explaining complex medical or financial situations in French is much easier and more accurate.
When you come to our office on S 132nd St, you don't have to worry about a "lost in translation" moment. We can:
- Translate the letters you receive from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
- Help you fill out the online portals or paper forms in English.
- Sit with you while you make phone calls to ensure your voice is heard.
Maintaining your Programs and benefits is our top priority. We want to make sure no one in our community falls through the cracks because they didn't understand a complicated letter in the mail.
Important Deadlines to Remember
Mark your calendars!
- May 1st, 2026: This is the official start date.
- Your Renewal Date: This is the most important date for you. The state will likely check your compliance during your regular yearly Medicaid renewal.
- The 30-Day Rule: If the state finds that you aren't meeting the requirements, you usually have 30 days to fix the issue or prove an exemption before your benefits are cut off.
Don't wait until the last minute! The system can get busy, and paperwork can take time to process. We recommend reaching out to us at least a month before May 1st so we can look at your specific situation together.
Step-By-Step: What Should You Do Now?
If you are currently on Medicaid, follow these steps to stay safe:
- Check Your Mail: Keep a close eye on any letters from the State of Nebraska. Do not throw them away!
- Gather Your Documents: Start keeping a folder of your pay stubs, school enrollment papers, or volunteer logs.
- Update Your Contact Info: Make sure the state has your current address and phone number. You can do this through your My Account portal if you have one set up.
- Call AIFS: If you see something you don't understand, call us at (402) 739-2508.
Let’s Keep Our Community Healthy
We know that the African immigrant community in Omaha is strong, hardworking, and resilient. These new rules are just one more hurdle, but it's one we can jump over together. Your health is your wealth, and we are committed to making sure every family has the coverage they need to thrive.
Whether you need help finding a place to volunteer, need a French translator to explain a form, or just have questions about whether you are exempt, our doors are open.
Contact Us Today
Don’t wait for a letter saying your benefits have been stopped. Let’s get ahead of the game together.
- Phone: (402) 739-2508
- Email: contact@aifs-usa.org
- Visit Us: 3706 S 132nd St, Omaha, NE, 68144
- Website: https://aifs-usa.org/contact
We are honored to serve you and your family. Let’s make sure May 1st passes by without any stress!
