Big changes are coming to SNAP and Medicaid in New Mexico. If your family uses food assistance or Medicaid coverage, it is important to understand what may change and what steps can help protect your benefits.
Many New Mexico families are already juggling work, caregiving, school, medical appointments, and everyday life. The good news is that you do not have to figure it out alone. The New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) is sharing updates and resources through the Keep Your Benefits NM campaign to help families stay informed and connected to support.
What is changing with SNAP?
SNAP helps many families buy groceries. Starting January 1, 2026, some adults who receive food assistance must complete 80 activity hours each month when they apply or renew, unless they qualify for an exemption. Activity hours may include work, volunteer work, community service, job training, workforce programs, or school.
These changes may apply to some adults ages 18 to 64 who are considered able to work, are not caring for a child under age 14, and do not qualify for an exemption. If someone is required to meet the activity hours and does not complete them for three months, their food assistance could stop temporarily. They may be able to regain benefits later if they meet the requirements.
Who may be exempt from SNAP activity hours?
Many people may be exempt. This may include people who are pregnant, have a disability, receive SSI, care for someone, work 30 or more hours per week, are students, receive unemployment, are in certain treatment programs, or are Native American.
Some people who were previously exempt from SNAP work rules may now need to complete activity hours under the updated federal rules. This includes veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and young adults who have aged out of foster care, unless they qualify for another exemption.
What is changing with Medicaid?
Medicaid work or activity requirement changes are set to begin in New Mexico on January 1, 2027.
Starting then, some adults ages 19 to 64 with Medicaid coverage may need to complete 80 activity hours each month when they renew, unless they qualify for an exemption. Some people applying for Medicaid coverage may also need to complete 80 activity hours during the month before they apply.
Just like with SNAP, activity hours may include work, community service, school, job training, or other approved activities. Some Medicaid members may also need to renew their coverage every six months.
If you have both SNAP and Medicaid, the same 80 activity hours can count for both programs. You do not have to do separate hours for each one.
Who may be exempt from Medicaid activity hours?
Like with SNAP, many people may be exempt. This can include pregnant people, people receiving postpartum medical assistance, people on Medicare, some parents or caregivers of a child under age 14, people with disabilities, medically frail individuals, American Indian and Alaska Native individuals, some foster youth and former foster youth, and others.
If you are not sure whether the rule applies to you, ask for help! The HCA is doing everything it can to help New Mexicans navigate these changes.
What is changing for some immigrants?
Some lawfully present immigrants may no longer qualify for federally funded food assistance when they renew. However, some may be reviewed for temporary state-funded food assistance.
Beginning October 1, 2026, some lawfully residing immigrants who are currently eligible for Medicaid may no longer qualify under federal Medicaid rules. New Mexico may be able to continue coverage for some people using state funding only. Emergency Medical Services for Non-Citizens will still be available.
The key message is simple: do not skip your renewal. Renewing helps the state review your case and see what help may still be available.
What should New Mexico families do now?
If your family receives SNAP, Medicaid, or both:
- Update your address, phone number, and mailing information with HCA.
- Open every letter from HCA.
- Respond quickly if HCA asks for information.
- Keep records like pay stubs, school forms, volunteer logs, training forms, medical records, or proof of any exemptions.
- Ask for help if you are unsure what to do or if you think you may qualify for an exemption.
Families can update information and upload documents at YES.NM.GOV. They can also call HCA at 1-800-283-4465 or visit a local HCA Income Support Division office.
These changes may feel scary and overwhelming, but you do not need to know every detail today. Start with the basics. Update your information, open and read your mail, keep your records, and ask for help now. These small steps can help your family keep the food assistance, health coverage, and support you may need.
