Overview

Effective August 15, 2026, the Connecticut Housing Engagement and Support Services (CHESS) program is no longer available. The Medicaid State Plan amendment that authorized the operation and provision of CHESS to qualified Medicaid participants expired on that date and thus services under the CHESS program are no longer offered by the Department of Social Services as of August 15, 2026.  

Fair hearing rights are not applicable if an individual wants to appeal the closing of the program or the change in law or policy. A member may request a hearing if there is a factual dispute or error related to their Medicaid benefits and coverage. The Office of Legal Counsel, Regulations and Administrative Hearings (OLCRAH) website will provide directions on how to request a hearing. 

CHESS was launched in 2022 and was aimed at managing the difficulties that were often part of homelessness, including access to health care and handling chronic health issues, with the overall goal of promoting health and well-being by coordinating targeted health care with housing.

CHESS provided supportive housing benefits under Medicaid, coordinated with Medicaid services and, to the extent available, non-Medicaid housing subsidies administered by the Department of Housing. Medicaid-covered housing engagement and support services included chronic disease management and wellness education, in addition to pre-tenancy supports (help with locating and securing housing), tenancy sustaining supports (help with maintaining successful tenancy), and non-medical transportation.

For questions or further assistance, individuals could contact DSS’ Community Options Unit at 1-888-992-8637.

[Updated 08-17-2026]