BCL Family Support Center

10/10/2026

Attention MassHealth Standard Members:

10/10/2026

ASK THE INSURANCE GURU:

"Hello Guru,

I received a MassHealth renewal for my daughter. I updated the information online and provided MassHealth with recent pay stubs for both myself and my husband.

Does this take care of my annual MassHealth renewal and Premium Assistance?

Jennifer"

Dear Jennifer,

The MassHealth renewal and premium assistance renewal are two different annual renewals. You did a great job of renewing your daughter’s MassHealth. But this will not automatically renew your premium assistance. Premium Assistance must be renewed annually after you pick a plan, or roll over your current health plan during your employer’s open enrollment period. For example, if your employer's open enrollment is coming up this October for 2027 plans, you need to submit a premium assistance review form in late October or by mid-November.

This is to ensure you receive a premium assistance check in December to cover the January premium. Premium Assistance pays one month in advance. The last premium payment checks will be mailed in November to cover the December premium. This is why it is important that you do not delay submitting the review form and 2027 plan summary of benefits.

Here’s a link to the Premium Assistance review form: https://www.mass.gov/doc/premium-assistance-compliance-form/download

Reminder:

I am the Autism Insurance Guru and every week (or as often as I can) I answer your autism insurance related questions here on the AIRC’s page. My advice and wisdom come from years of experience dealing with autism insurance in Massachusetts, but please note anything I share is NOT intended to be legal or medical advice. I will post answers to questions that are submitted.

10/03/2026

The Department of Developmental Services Children's Autism Waiver Program (AWP) is a Medicaid-funded program that provides intensive in-home and community-based services for young children with autism spectrum disorder for up to three years.

Enrollment is managed through an annual open interest application period. The 2026 open interest period is October 16, 2026, through October 30. Submitting an application does not guarantee placement into the program.

Applications and more information are available in multiple languages on the Mass.gov website here: https://www.mass.gov/lists/autism-waiver-service-program-open-request-period-2026

10/01/2026

https://fcsn.org/event/what-is-transition-to-adulthood/

09/30/2026

09/24/2026

Adult Paint Night 💙

09/24/2026

Big news for Massachusetts families! 🛒 You can now use your WIC benefits to order groceries online at Walmart. Skip the lines and shop for WIC-approved items from the comfort of home.
How to get started:
- Log in or create a free account on the Walmart app or website at Walmart.com/wic
- Add your WIC card to your account wallet.
- Shop for eligible items and select your pickup or delivery time.
- Enter your PIN at checkout to pay securely.
💡 Pro-tip: While WIC covers your food, please note that any delivery fees are not covered by your benefits.

09/24/2026

Hypersensitivity means having a heightened sensitivity to sensory input.

For some people, everyday sounds, lights, textures, movement, smells, or tastes can feel much stronger or more intense than they do for others.