Medi-Cal, Partnership, and CalFresh Updates

Medi-Cal Enrollment Changes (Starting January 1, 2026)

Beginning January 1, 2026, Medi-Cal will pause new enrollments for certain applicants based on immigration status.

• If you already have Medi-Cal, you can remain covered regardless of immigration status as long as your coverage does not lapse.

• A break in coverage of more than 90 days may prevent Medi-Cal from being reinstated.

Renewals Are More Important Than Ever

Late Medi-Cal renewals will be harder to process in 2026, especially for individuals classified as having Unsatisfactory Immigration Status (UIS).

Knowing and responding to your renewal date on time is critical.

Unsatisfactory Immigration Status (UIS)

You may be considered to have UIS if you do not have, or cannot verify, an immigration status that qualifies for federally funded full-scope Medi-Cal. Examples include:

• No recognized immigration status

• DACA recipients

• Visitor, student, or temporary work visas (unless under age 21)

• Pending U visa applications

• Parole into the U.S. for less than one year

Individuals with UIS may still qualify for pregnancy-related or emergency Medi-Cal services only, if income-eligible.

Satisfactory Immigration Status (SIS)

You may qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal if income-eligible and you have SIS, including:

• U.S. citizens or nationals

• Non-citizens with qualifying federally recognized statuses, such as:

  • Lawful Permanent Residents (green card holders) who meet or are exempt from the 5-year waiting period

  • Refugees and asylees

Other Medi-Cal Changes

• Asset limits are being reinstated for older adults and people with disabilities.

• Full-scope dental benefits will no longer be available to lawfully present immigrants age 19 and older starting July 1, 2026, unless pregnant or postpartum.

Watch Your Mail

Your Medi-Cal renewal packet will arrive in a yellow envelope. Do not ignore it.
Make sure your mailing address and contact information are up to date with Social Services, not just your clinic.

CalFresh Changes

• Work requirements are being added for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD), ages 18–64.

• CalFresh recertification will now be required every 3 months, instead of once per year.

• The definition of a “dependent” is changing from under age 18 to under age 14.

⚠️ Avoid scams: Some apps charge money to access EBT information.
The only official app is ebtEDGE. If you’re unsure, ask a Patient Advocate for help.

Covered California Updates

• Income verification rules are changing:
  The only accepted proof of income will be your federal 1040 tax return.

  • Paystubs and written statements will no longer be accepted

  • Married couples must file jointly

  • If you have not filed taxes, you will not qualify

• No automatic renewals:
  Covered California plans will no longer renew on their own. You must actively re-enroll every 12 months.

• Read all mail carefully:
  Pay close attention to letters or notices from Covered California or your insurance provider (such as Blue Shield or Anthem).

• Higher premiums:
  Monthly premiums are expected to increase. Use Covered California’s Shop and Compare tool to preview 2026 costs.

• Eligibility changes:
  DACA recipients are no longer eligible for Covered California coverage.

Covered California Open Enrollment

📅 November 1 – January 31

Our Case Management Team is here to help—please reach out if you need assistance.