How to Renew West Virginia Medicaid
Updated August 2026
West Virginia renews most Medicaid and WVCHIP eligibility every 12 months. BMS first attempts an ex parte review — using Social Security Administration records, state employment databases, and other electronic data sources to verify continued eligibility without requiring member action. If ex parte verification succeeds, coverage renews automatically.
12 months
Renewal frequency
WVPATH
Online renewal portal (wvpath.wv.gov)
30 days
Deadline to appeal a termination
West Virginia faced operational challenges during the 2023–2024 unwinding
West Virginia's high enrollment rate contributed to significant operational challenges during the 2023–2024 Medicaid unwinding period; some members lost coverage despite remaining eligible when mail did not reach them at outdated addresses. Keep your contact information current in WVPATH at wvpath.wv.gov — West Virginia DoHS sends renewal forms and notices to the mailing address, phone number, and email on file. Call 1-877-716-1212 for assistance.
How West Virginia Medicaid renews coverage
When electronic data is insufficient, BMS mails a renewal packet and contacts members by phone and email. Members must return the completed renewal form with any requested documentation by the deadline on the notice. Per BMS, once you receive renewal paperwork, complete and return it as soon as possible.
How to complete your West Virginia Medicaid renewal
Follow these steps once you receive a renewal notice.
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1
Log in to WVPATH and check for renewal notices
Go to wvpath.wv.gov and look for any renewal action items in your account. BMS also sends paper notices and may call or email — keep all contact information current. Your renewal due date is visible in WVPATH.
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2
Review and update your information
Confirm your current address, household size, income, and employment status. Report changes to any of these since your last renewal. Even small income changes can affect eligibility or the benefit category you qualify under.
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3
Provide documents if BMS requests them
If income cannot be verified electronically, BMS may request pay stubs, tax returns, Social Security letters, or proof of residency. Upload documents through WVPATH or mail them to your local DoHS field office.
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4
Submit renewal by the stated deadline
Complete renewal online through WVPATH, by calling 1-877-716-1212, or in person at a DoHS field office. Return paperwork as soon as possible — don't wait until the last day, as processing takes time.
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5
Confirm coverage and plan
After processing, check WVPATH to confirm your coverage is active and your Mountain Health Promise plan information is current. If coverage was terminated in error, request a fair hearing immediately.
Documents that may be needed for WV Medicaid renewal
BMS may request the following documents if your eligibility cannot be verified electronically.
- Recent pay stubs (last 30 days)
- Prior year tax return or self-employment income records
- Social Security or SSI award letter
- Proof of West Virginia residency (utility bill, lease, official mail)
- Immigration documents if status has changed
- Household composition update if members have joined or left the household
If West Virginia Medicaid coverage ends
If BMS terminates your coverage and you believe you remain eligible, request a fair hearing within 30 days of the termination notice. Requesting a hearing before the coverage end date may keep coverage active while the appeal is pending. Call 1-877-716-1212 or visit a DoHS field office for hearing request assistance.
West Virginia had significant coverage losses during the post-pandemic Medicaid unwinding that began in April 2023. If you or a family member lost West Virginia Medicaid coverage during 2023 or 2024 and believe you are still eligible, you can apply again at any time through WVPATH. There is no waiting period to reapply after a lapse.
If your renewal is denied
A denial must state the reason in writing and explain your right to appeal. Common renewal denials include income that increased above the threshold, failure to respond to the renewal packet, a change in household size that affects eligibility, or immigration status questions. Some of these can be addressed by reapplying with updated information rather than appealing.
Contact West Virginia Medicaid promptly after a denial. A reconsideration or new application filed promptly can often restore coverage retroactively to the date it was lost.
Keeping your account information up to date
The most effective way to avoid renewal problems is to report changes promptly. Changes to report include a new job or income change, a move to a new address, a change in household size (new baby, someone moves in or out), and gaining or losing other health coverage.
Contact West Virginia Medicaid or update your information through the online portal at dhhr.wv.gov/bms.
West Virginia Medicaid
- WVPATH online portal: wvpath.wv.gov
- West Virginia BMS renewal line: 1-877-716-1212
- Bureau for Medical Services: dhhr.wv.gov/bms