Written & Reviewed by Akash Biswas, MSW | Former Medicaid Caseworker Trainer | Verified against official Medicaid.gov and NCDHHS guidelines | Last Updated: August 2026
CheckMedicaid.com is not affiliated with any government agency. This content is for educational purposes only.
To renew Medicaid in North Carolina in 2026, you must respond to your county Department of Social Services (DSS) when it’s time for your yearly recertification.
The fastest way is to log in to your enhanced ePASS account at epass.nc.gov and update your information online. This guide walks you through every step, plus your other options if you can’t renew online.
Quick Summary:
- Most NC Medicaid members renew once every 12 months
- Your local DSS mails a renewal notice or a request for more information
- You can renew online, by mail, phone, fax, email, or in person
- An enhanced ePASS account is required for online renewal
- Not sure if you still qualify? Check Medicaid Eligibility in 2026 before you start
- Returning members are matched against income rules set out in Medicaid Income Limits by State in 2026
What Is Medicaid Renewal?
Medicaid renewal, also called recertification or redetermination, is the yearly check your state runs to confirm you still qualify for coverage. Your caseworker looks at your income, household size, and other details on file. If everything still matches, your coverage continues without you doing anything at all.
Why Renewal Happens Every Year
North Carolina reviews most Medicaid cases once every 12 months. This keeps enrollment accurate and makes sure benefits go to people who still meet the rules.
Ex Parte (Automatic) Renewals
Your local DSS will first try an ex parte review. This means they check electronic records, like wage data, without contacting you. If your case can be renewed this way, you keep your same Medicaid ID card and don’t need to do anything.
When DSS Needs More From You
If your caseworker can’t confirm your information electronically, they’ll mail you a Medical Assistance Renewal Notice or a Request for More Information. You must fill this out and send it back.
What Triggers a Renewal Notice in North Carolina
North Carolina sends renewal notices on a set schedule tied to your coverage anniversary. Knowing what to expect helps you avoid a surprise gap in coverage.
Your Annual Recertification Date
Every NC Medicaid case has an annual coverage end date. Your county DSS starts the renewal process before that date to give you time to respond.
Outdated Mailing Address
If you never receive a renewal notice, your address on file may be wrong. This is one of the most common reasons people miss their renewal window and lose coverage without realizing it.
Upcoming Change for Expansion Adults
Starting January 1, 2027, adults ages 19 to 64 covered under NC Medicaid expansion will renew every six months instead of once a year, and will need to report work or community engagement hours. This change does not apply to your 2026 renewal.
Renewal Methods Available in 2026
North Carolina gives you several ways to complete your renewal. Pick whichever method is easiest for you, but online is generally the quickest.
| Method | How to Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online (ePASS) | Log in at epass.nc.gov with an enhanced account and submit your form | Fastest option, with real-time confirmation |
| Send your completed form to your local DSS office | Use the address printed on your renewal notice | |
| Phone | Call your local DSS or the NC Medicaid Contact Center at 1-888-245-0179 | Staff can walk you through next steps |
| In Person | Drop off your form at your local DSS office | Find your office through the NCDHHS local DSS directory |
| Fax | Fax your form to your local DSS office | Fax number is listed on your notice |
| Email your form if your local DSS accepts it | Confirm with your local DSS website first |
Choosing the Right Method for You
If you’re comfortable online and have your documents ready, ePASS will save you the most time. If you need help understanding a notice, calling or visiting your local DSS in person may work better.
What Happens If You Use More Than One Method
You only need to submit your renewal once. Submitting through multiple channels at the same time can create duplicate records and slow down processing, so pick one method and stick with it.
Step-by-Step: Renewing Online Through ePASS
Renewing through ePASS is the method North Carolina recommends for most beneficiaries. Here’s exactly what to do, step by step.
Step 1: Create or Log In to Your ePASS Account
Go to epass.nc.gov. If you’re new, click “Sign up” and create an NCID using a valid email address. If you already have an account, log in with your username and password.
Step 2: Enhance Your ePASS Account
An enhanced ePASS account is required to complete your renewal online. From your dashboard, click “Enhance your ePASS account” and follow the prompts. You’ll verify your identity through Experian using details like past addresses or employers, then set up two-factor authentication by text or email.
Step 3: Complete Your Renewal Form
Once your account is enhanced, check your dashboard for renewal notices or caseworker messages. Update any changes to your household size, income, or address, since these details directly affect the coverage category and Medicaid Fee Schedule 2026 rates tied to your plan.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Use the ePASS Document Center to upload proof of identity, proof of income, proof of NC residency, or anything else your DSS requests. Clear photos or PDFs work best and help avoid processing delays.
Step 5: Submit and Track Your Renewal
Review every section carefully, click Submit, and save your confirmation number. You can log back into ePASS anytime to check your status or read decision notices from your caseworker.
What If You Can’t Verify Your Identity Online?
Not everyone can complete identity verification through ePASS, and that’s okay. There’s still a path forward.
Visiting Your Local DSS in Person
If you don’t have a Social Security number or your identity can’t be confirmed electronically, bring valid identity documents to your local DSS office. Staff can link your enhanced account manually.
What Documents to Bring
A driver’s license, state ID, or passport usually works. If you’re unsure what counts, call your local DSS ahead of your visit to confirm.
Important Deadlines and Tips for 2026
Missing a deadline is the most common reason people lose Medicaid coverage they still qualify for. These tips help you avoid that.
Submit Your Renewal Promptly
Return your form as soon as you receive it. Waiting until the last minute increases your risk of a coverage gap if anything needs correction.
The 90-Day Reconsideration Window
If your coverage ends because you missed the renewal deadline, you may have up to 90 days to submit the required information and ask for reconsideration, without starting a brand-new application.
Keep Your Contact Information Current
Update your address, phone number, and email in ePASS or with your local DSS regularly. This is the single easiest way to make sure you never miss a notice.
Watch for Scams
If a renewal letter looks suspicious or doesn’t match what you expect from DSS, contact your local office directly to verify it before responding or sharing any personal information.
What Happens After You Submit Your Renewal?
Once you submit, your case moves to your caseworker for review. Here’s what to expect while you wait.
Review Timeline
Your local DSS reviews your renewal using the information and documents you provided. You can track progress through your ePASS dashboard at any time.
Possible Outcomes
If everything matches, your Medicaid is renewed and you keep using your current Medicaid card. If your case can’t be confirmed, DSS will contact you for more information before making a final decision.
If Your Coverage Ends
If you’re found no longer eligible, you can appeal the decision or apply for coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov. You can also reapply for NC Medicaid at any time if your circumstances change.
FAQ
Q: How often do I need to renew NC Medicaid in 2026?
A: Most North Carolina Medicaid beneficiaries renew once every 12 months in 2026. Your local DSS will try an automatic ex parte review first, then mail a notice if more information is needed. The move to six-month renewals for expansion adults doesn’t start until January 2027.
Q: What is an enhanced ePASS account, and do I need one?
A: An enhanced ePASS account lets you renew Medicaid, upload documents, and update your information online. It requires identity verification through Experian. You need one to complete your renewal fully online instead of by mail or in person.
Q: What happens if I miss my Medicaid renewal deadline?
A: Your coverage may end if DSS doesn’t receive your renewal on time. You may have up to 90 days afterward to submit the missing information and request reconsideration without filing a new application from scratch.
Q: Can I renew my Medicaid by phone instead of online?
A: Yes. Call your local DSS office or the NC Medicaid Contact Center at 1-888-245-0179 for guidance. Staff can direct you on submitting your renewal form, though the actual form usually still needs to be mailed, faxed, or uploaded.
Q: Will my income limits change during my 2026 renewal?
A: Your caseworker checks your current income against the limits for your household size and category at the time of renewal. If you’re unsure where you stand, review current figures before submitting your form.
Q: What if I don’t have internet access to use ePASS?
A: You can still renew by mail, phone, fax, or by visiting your local DSS office in person. Find your nearest office and its contact information through the NCDHHS local DSS directory.
Sources & Disclaimer
Last Updated: August 2026
Sources:
- NC Medicaid Recertification, NCDHHS: medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/medicaid-recertification
- ePASS Portal: epass.nc.gov
- Enhanced ePASS Accounts for NC Medicaid Beneficiaries, NCDHHS: medicaid.ncdhhs.gov
CheckMedicaid.com is not affiliated with any government agency. For official eligibility information, contact your local county Department of Social Services or visit Medicaid.gov.
