Work rules begin for NJ FamilyCare adults
Adults 19 to 64 in the expansion group need 80 hours a month of work or approved activities starting October 2026.
Who is affected in New Jersey?
New Jersey FamilyCare enrollees aged 19 to 64 who are in the ACA Medicaid expansion group (adults with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level who are not pregnant, disabled, or elderly) must meet community engagement requirements starting October 1, 2026.
What counts as 80 hours?
- Paid employment or self-employment
- Job search activities (up to 20 of the 80 hours in NJ)
- Approved job training, vocational, or educational programs
- Volunteering with a qualifying nonprofit or community organization
- Caregiving for a child under 14 or a person with a disability in the household
How to report hours in New Jersey
New Jersey uses the NJ FamilyCare online portal at njfamilycare.org. Log in, go to "Community Engagement Reporting," and submit your hours by the last day of each month. Paper forms are available from your county welfare agency if you cannot report online.
1. Log in at njfamilycare.org and confirm your address is current.
2. Set up electronic notifications so you receive reminders.
3. Keep records of your work, training or volunteer hours — pay stubs, a letter from your employer or training program, or a volunteer sign-in sheet.
Who is exempt in New Jersey?
You do not need to meet the requirement if you are pregnant; physically or mentally unable to work; the primary caregiver of a child under 6; receiving SSI, SSDI, or other qualifying disability benefits; or a student enrolled full-time.