Many Americans assume Medicaid will catch them if they lose coverage or face serious illness before 65. But hidden eligibility rules and income thresholds leave surprising gaps—especially for early retirees, part-time workers, or those between jobs. These “coverage cliffs” can create months of unprotected risk, unexpected medical debt, or denied care. Because Medicaid varies by state, the cracks often go unnoticed until it’s too late. Understanding these silent gaps is essential for anyone who hasn’t reached Medicare age but depends on safety-net care.
