Connecticut HUSKY Health

Quick Facts

• Program structure: HUSKY Health bundles Medicaid and CHIP into four categories—HUSKY A for children and parents/caregivers, HUSKY B for higher-income children, HUSKY C for older adults and individuals with disabilities, and HUSKY D for low-income adults without dependent children.
• Coverage scope: Medical, behavioral health, dental, vision, pharmacy, non-emergency transportation, and care coordination. Specialized plans like PCMH+ and Intensive Care Management provide extra support for complex needs.
• Enrollment platform: Access Health CT handles initial applications for HUSKY A, B, and D, while HUSKY C applications flow through DSS regional offices. Renewals rely on the ConneCT online portal.
• Delivery system: Managed fee-for-service administered by Community Health Network of Connecticut (CHNCT), with a broad provider network covering every county.
• Cost-sharing: No premiums for HUSKY A or D; sliding-scale premiums for some HUSKY B families; nominal co-pays ($1–$3) for certain services under HUSKY C.

Why HUSKY Health Is Essential in 2025

Connecticut completed its post-pandemic unwinding in 2024, redetermining eligibility for more than 1 million enrollees. Many families received confusing mail or experienced coverage gaps. In 2025 the state revamped renewal processes: DSS now leverages “ex parte” renewals using tax data, SNAP records, and unemployment information to automatically extend coverage for roughly 60% of members. Those needing action receive text and email prompts through the new MyDSS mobile app, reducing mail delays. Connecticut also expanded continuous coverage for children under age six—once enrolled, they stay covered for 12 months regardless of income fluctuations, a lifesaver for seasonal workers and gig economy families.

HUSKY Health continues to anchor the state’s health equity strategy. With the launch of Covered Connecticut premium assistance, families slightly above Medicaid income limits can transition to zero-premium marketplace plans without losing continuity of care. The HUSKY Plus program offers enhanced benefits for children with special health care needs, including respite services and durable medical equipment, bridging gaps that commercial plans often exclude. In 2025, Connecticut invested in doula coverage for pregnant members and expanded postpartum eligibility to 12 months, aligning with maternal health initiatives.

Eligibility Pathways and Income Thresholds

1. HUSKY A (Medicaid/CHIP for children and parents): Covers children up to age 19 with household income up to 201% of the federal poverty level (FPL), parents/caregivers up to 160% FPL, and pregnant individuals up to 263% FPL. Immigration status is more flexible for children and pregnant people—coverage extends regardless of status through the Covered CT expansion.
2. HUSKY B (CHIP): Serves uninsured children up to 323% FPL. Level 1 (up to 235% FPL) has no premiums; Level 2 requires modest monthly premiums ($30 per child, capped at $50 per family) and small copays. Families must lack access to employer-sponsored insurance that meets affordability standards.
3. HUSKY C: Supports seniors (65+), blind, or individuals with disabilities meeting income and asset tests. For 2025, monthly income limits are $1,182 for individuals and $1,593 for couples in community settings, with asset caps of $1,600/$2,400. Medically needy “spend-down” options allow higher incomes by deducting medical expenses.
4. HUSKY D: Expands Medicaid to adults 19–64 without dependent children with income up to 138% FPL. No asset test. Ideal for gig workers, part-time employees, and adults transitioning between jobs.
5. Medicaid for Long-Term Services: Includes home- and community-based waivers like Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders and Personal Care Assistance. These waivers stack with HUSKY C and require separate functional assessments.

Application Workflow

• Create Accounts: Start at AccessHealthCT.com for HUSKY A/B/D, or download the Access Health mobile app. For HUSKY C, register at ConneCT.ct.gov or visit a DSS field office.
• Prepare Documents: Proof of identity, Social Security numbers, immigration documentation (if applicable), income verification (pay stubs, unemployment statements), and proof of Connecticut residency (lease, utility bill). For HUSKY C, gather bank statements, life insurance policies, and vehicle titles.
• Submit Application: Complete online forms or call Access Health CT at 1-855-805-4325. In-person navigator help is available at community health centers, libraries, and DSS offices.
• Verification: Respond promptly to document requests. Upload via MyDSS or mail to DSS Scanning Center. Keep copies and confirmation numbers.
• Enrollment Confirmation: Receive an approval letter and HUSKY Health ID cards. Choose a primary care provider within 15 days to avoid auto-assignment.
• Renewal Reminders: Watch for renewal packets 60 days before coverage ends. Use ex parte approvals by keeping income data updated with DSS.

Strategies to Secure and Retain Coverage

• Opt Into Text Alerts: Text “Start” to 468-308 to receive DSS reminders about renewals and documents. Ensure contact information is current in MyDSS.
• Report Changes Quickly: Income increases, address changes, or household size shifts must be reported within 10 days. Timely updates prevent overpayments and coverage terminations.
• Leverage Community Assisters: Organizations like the Community Renewal Team, Project Access New Haven, and Hispanic Health Council provide bilingual enrollment assistance and troubleshoot denials.
• Schedule Annual Checkups: Staying engaged with your primary care provider maintains continuity and helps flag prior authorization needs before they become urgent.
• Coordinate Benefits: If you transition to Covered Connecticut or employer insurance, request a 90-day transition of care so ongoing treatments continue uninterrupted.

Winning Tactics for Specialized Populations

• Pregnant Members: Apply as soon as pregnancy is confirmed. HUSKY A offers presumptive eligibility; prenatal clinics can enroll you on the spot. Ask about doula services and home visiting programs such as Nurturing Families Network.
• Children with Special Health Needs: Enroll in HUSKY Plus by submitting medical documentation from a pediatric specialist. Benefits include wheelchairs, nutritional supplements, and extended therapy visits beyond standard limits.
• Aged/Disabled Individuals: Consult with a CHOICES counselor to evaluate “spend-down” and Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) programs. QMB pays Medicare Part B premiums and eliminates Medicare cost-sharing when paired with HUSKY C.
• College Students: Connecticut residents attending school out-of-state can keep HUSKY coverage if they maintain state residency intent. Obtain temporary out-of-state provider authorizations for urgent care near campus.
• Immigrant Families: Undocumented children and pregnant people can access full-scope HUSKY coverage. Adults without eligible status may qualify for Emergency Medicaid to cover labor/delivery or life-threatening emergencies.

Navigating Health Services

HUSKY Health partners with CHNCT for care management. Members can call 1-800-859-9889 for:

• Nurse advice line available 24/7.
• Behavioral health crisis support and referrals to therapists accepting Medicaid.
• Transportation scheduling for medical appointments (request 48 hours in advance through Veyo).
• Pharmacy overrides for lost medications or dosage changes.

Dental benefits are administered by BeneCare. Schedule cleanings twice per year and use their provider directory to find accepting dentists. Vision coverage includes annual exams and glasses; children receive replacement lenses if prescriptions change. For behavioral health, Wheeler Clinic and the Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut offer rapid intake appointments.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

• Ignoring Mail: Renewal forms are time-sensitive. If you move, update your address immediately to avoid termination.
• Missing Phone Calls: DSS may call from unfamiliar numbers. Save the call center number and answer to verify details quickly.
• Not Reading Explanation of Benefits (EOBs): EOBs outline service approvals; review them to catch billing errors before providers send collections.
• Skipping Premiums (HUSKY B Level 2): Set up automatic payments via MyDSS to avoid lapses. Two missed premiums lead to termination and a 90-day lockout.
• Failing to Request Prior Authorizations: For elective surgeries or durable medical equipment, work with your provider to submit paperwork early. Appeals can take 30 days.

Renewal and Redetermination Blueprint

1. 60 Days Out: DSS attempts automatic renewal using state databases. If successful, you receive a notice confirming continued coverage—no action needed.
2. 30–45 Days Out: If ex parte renewal fails, DSS mails a pre-populated form and sends text/email alerts. Review, update, sign, and return by the deadline.
3. 15 Days Out: If DSS hasn’t received your form, call 1-855-626-6632 to request more time or submit via MyDSS. Upload proof of income or other requested documents.
4. Termination Notice: If coverage ends, you have 90 days to submit missing information and request reinstatement without a new application. Medical services during the gap may still be covered retroactively.
5. Fair Hearings: File within 60 days of an adverse decision. Free legal aid from Connecticut Legal Services or Greater Hartford Legal Aid can represent you.

Integrating HUSKY With Other Supports

• SNAP and Cash Assistance: Use the same ConneCT account to apply for food or cash benefits. Sharing documentation across programs reduces paperwork.
• WIC & Home Visiting: Pregnant and postpartum participants can co-enroll in WIC and Nurturing Families for nutrition counseling and parenting support.
• Behavioral Health Integration: HUSKY members can access mobile crisis services through 988 partnerships. Youth services connect to School-Based Health Centers for counseling.
• Employment Services: HUSKY D participants may qualify for the DSS Employment Services Program, linking to job training while maintaining health coverage.

Case Study: Gig Worker Managing Chronic Illness

Lena, a Hartford-based rideshare driver, saw income drop during winter months. She applied for HUSKY D via Access Health CT, uploading weekly pay summaries from the Uber driver portal and bank statements. Within 10 days she was approved and selected a primary care provider through MyDSS. When she developed diabetes-related complications, CHNCT assigned a care manager who coordinated nutrition counseling, secured a continuous glucose monitor, and arranged transportation for endocrinology visits. During the unwinding, she received a renewal text, completed the pre-populated form on her phone, and maintained uninterrupted coverage. She now uses community health worker programs at Hartford Hospital to manage diet and fitness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an asset test for HUSKY D? No. Only HUSKY C has asset limits. However, large savings deposits may prompt DSS to question eligibility; provide explanations if funds are earmarked for rent or business expenses.

Can I choose any doctor? Most Connecticut providers accept HUSKY, but always confirm. Use the CHNCT provider directory and call ahead. If you can’t find a specialist, request assistance from Intensive Care Management.

What if I get a job offering insurance? Report the change. You might qualify for Covered Connecticut premium assistance, letting you accept employer coverage while HUSKY covers cost-sharing. Alternatively, if the plan is unaffordable, you can remain on HUSKY D.

Does HUSKY cover dental implants? Generally no, but medically necessary oral surgery may be covered with prior authorization. Ask your dentist to submit documentation.

How do I replace a lost ID card? Call HUSKY Health Member Services or download a digital card via the MyDSS app. Providers can verify eligibility electronically even without the card.

Staying organized with documentation, leveraging community navigators, and engaging with MyDSS tools ensures Connecticut residents keep comprehensive HUSKY Health coverage while navigating income swings, health needs, and life transitions.