How to bid on Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Jurisdiction 8 (J8) for HHS

What the agency is buying

The Department of Health and Human Services, through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), is seeking a contractor to serve as a Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) for Jurisdiction 8. This jurisdiction covers Indiana and Michigan.

The selected contractor will be responsible for processing and paying Medicare Part A and Part B claims. They will also provide support to healthcare providers in these states. This contract is for a base year with eight one-year option periods.

Key dates and deadlines

The final solicitation is expected to be released the week of September 28, 2026. Proposals are due by November 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET. The contract award is anticipated around September 2027.

CMS previously accepted questions on a draft RFP, with answers and updated documents now available. It is the offeror's responsibility to check the posting site for the final solicitation and any updates.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms experienced in health insurance benefit administration services, particularly those with expertise in Medicare claims processing and payment. The procurement is designated as full and open competition.

The applicable NAICS code is 524114, Direct Health and Medical Insurance Carriers, with a small business size standard of $47.0 million.

How to respond

To access the opportunity, click "View original source" on the portal. If you land on the homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view documents, though this is not always required.

The final solicitation will provide detailed instructions for proposal submission. Ensure you review all documents, including any redlined updates and Q&A documents, as they contain important information for preparing your response.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully review the Statement of Work (SOW) and all attachments in the final solicitation to fully understand the scope of services required. Pay close attention to the specific functions the contractor must perform, including claims-related activities and provider relationships.

Since this is a best value trade-off procurement, your proposal should not only address technical requirements but also demonstrate how your solution offers the most advantageous balance of cost and technical factors. Clearly articulate your firm's capabilities and experience in Medicare claims processing and provider support.

Ensure your proposal adheres strictly to all submission instructions, including formatting, content, and deadlines. Pay attention to any specific requirements for submitting a subcontracting plan or other required documents.