This information is intended for Active participants & pre-Medicare retirees.

Starting with May 2025 hours (for October–December coverage), participants can make up to three (3) Minimum/Difference payments within an 18-month period to maintain eligibility.

As a reminder, the option to continue coverage under the Minimum/Difference (MDP) self-payment provision is offered only after a period of Hours-based coverage or prior MDP coverage (if less than two MDP payments have been made in the previous 18-month period). Hours-based coverage does not include coverage earned by Initial or Rolling Eligibility.

The MDP amount is calculated by subtracting the number of Credit Hours worked from the minimum hours required for the Contribution Quarter (330), then multiplying the result by the full contribution rate ($11). If no Credit Hours are worked, the full 330 hours are used in the calculation.

Other Minimum Difference rules and eligibility tests remain unchanged. Visit our Eligibility page for a complete description of all eligibility tests and Minimum Difference rules.