Approved for cash benefits through DTA? You automatically get MassHealth too

People who receive cash benefits through the Department of Transitional Assistance currently are automatically enrolled. This will change in 2027.

Until late 2026, in Massachusetts, people who are approved for Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) or Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC) automatically receive MassHealth. If you are approved for TAFDC or EAEDC, you do not need to submit a MassHealth application. You will receive Medicaid health benefits through MassHealth without having to apply.

Upcoming Change: Automatic Enrollment is Ending

More about the changes

Because of federal changes, MassHealth must end automatic enrollment into MassHealth for EAEDC or TAFDC clients.  

This will mean that: 

• In late 2026, individuals newly approved for EAEDC or TAFDC cash assistance benefits will no longer be automatically enrolled in MassHealth. Instead, they will need to apply directly to MassHealth to receive MassHealth benefits.
• Members who currently receive MassHealth coverage through automatic enrollment will need to transition coverage by applying directly. Members can apply directly now, or wait to receive information and instructions from MassHealth in 2027.

What do I need to do now?  

We encourage you to apply directly with MassHealth now. This can limit any possible breaks in MassHealth coverage as MassHealth phases out automatic enrollment.

What can I expect in the future?  

If you do not apply directly with MassHealth now, and still need to transition your coverage in 2027, MassHealth will send you information and instructions in 2027. You will receive a packet with an application to complete and send to MassHealth. This packet will include a notice letting you know when your health care coverage through your DTA cash benefits will be terminated if you don’t take action.

Want to apply or have questions?

Apply for MassHealth  Call us 

Frequently asked questions

I did not apply for MassHealth. Why do I now have MassHealth coverage?

When you become eligible for a cash benefit through the Department of Transitional Assistance, you automatically become a MassHealth member. This gives you access to free health coverage through MassHealth.

What is MassHealth?

MassHealth provides health benefits to qualifying children, families, seniors, and people with disabilities living in Massachusetts. For more information about MassHealth, go to mass.gov/MassHealth.

I need to update my address or other contact information for my MassHealth profile. Who should I contact?

If you have MassHealth because you have DTA cash benefits and you want to update your contact information, please call DTA at [phone]. To make changes to your MassHealth profile, please contact your DTA case manager.

If you have questions about your health or dental benefits or want to make changes to your managed care health plan enrollment, please call MassHealth at [phone], TDD/TTY: 711.

I applied for TAFDC/EAEDC. My application is pending approval. Do I have MassHealth coverage?

MassHealth coverage automatically starts once you apply for a cash benefit, including when you are waiting to hear if you’ve been approved for cash benefits. However, if your TAFDC/EAEDC application is denied, your MassHealth coverage may change. To check on your coverage status, call MassHealth at [phone], TDD/TTY: 711.

While you are waiting to find out if you are approved for DTA cash benefits, you can ask for a temporary MassHealth card by calling MassHealth at [phone], TDD/TTY: 711. You will not be able to enroll in a health plan until you are approved for DTA cash benefits, but you can still access health care services through MassHealth’s network of health care providers.

What happens if I had MassHealth because of DTA benefits, then my DTA case closes?

If your DTA case closes, then your MassHealth coverage may change.

To check the status of your coverage, call MassHealth at [phone], TDD/TTY: 711. If you need to apply for coverage, you can do that online.

Here are links to the applications:

• Younger than 65 application
• 65 and older application

I got temporary cash benefits and temporary MassHealth, then my cash benefits application was denied. What happens to my MassHealth coverage?

Once your DTA cash benefit application is denied or your case is closed, your MassHealth coverage may change. To check the status of your coverage, call MassHealth at [phone], TDD/TTY: 711.

Can I see information about my MassHealth coverage online?

Yes. You can view information online using MyServices. MyServices is an online tool where you can access helpful information, including your MassHealth ID number and eligibility status. For more information, go to myservices.mass.gov.

I need a new MassHealth card. Who do I contact?

It’s easy to get a new card, just contact MassHealth at [phone], TDD/TTY: 711.

Date published:	June 3, 2024
Last updated:	April 16, 2025