Medi-Cal Changes in 2026

Medi-Cal Changes in 2026: What Patients Need to Know

Medi-Cal provides free or low-cost health, dental, vision, and mental health coverage to eligible California residents. As of 2026, several changes to the program have taken effect. While many current beneficiaries will not see changes to their coverage, some new applicants and certain eligibility groups may be affected.

If You Already Have Medi-Cal

If you currently have Medi-Cal, the most important step is to complete your annual renewal on time. Most individuals who were enrolled in full-scope Medi-Cal before January 1, 2026, will continue to receive coverage as long as they remain eligible and submit any required renewal information.

Be sure to review all notices from your County office and respond promptly if additional documentation is requested. Missing a deadline or failing to provide requested information may result in a delay or interruption in coverage.

Changes for Some New Applicants

Some eligibility rules have changed for adults applying for Medi-Cal for the first time. Beginning January 1, 2026, certain adults ages 19 and older who do not have a qualifying immigration status are no longer eligible for full-scope Medi-Cal.

Depending on their circumstances, they may still qualify for limited Medi-Cal benefits, including emergency medical services, pregnancy-related care, and other covered services. These changes do not apply to most children, pregnant individuals, former foster youth, or several other protected populations.

Asset Requirements for Certain Medi-Cal Programs

Another important update is the return of the asset test for specific Medi-Cal programs. Older adults, individuals with disabilities, and people receiving long-term care services may be asked to provide information about financial resources, such as bank accounts, property, or other assets, during the eligibility or renewal process.

Requirements vary depending on the Medi-Cal program and individual circumstances.

How to Apply for Medi-Cal

If you need to apply for Medi-Cal, there are several ways to submit an application:

• Online: BenefitsCal is available 24/7 and allows you to apply from a computer, phone, or other device.
• By phone: Sacramento County – 1-800-560-0976; Yolo County – 1-833-744-4472; Placer County – 1-888-385-5160.
• By mail: Applications can be downloaded from the California Department of Health Care Services and mailed to your County office.
• In person: You may also apply at your local County human services office.

Documents You May Need

When applying for Medi-Cal or responding to a request from the County, you may be asked to provide documents such as:

• Photo identification
• Proof of income, such as pay stubs or a tax return
• Proof of address
• Information about household members
• Immigration or citizenship/status documents, if applicable
• Social Security information, if available
• Bank or savings account statements
• Other documents requested by the County based on your individual situation

Don’t Ignore Medi-Cal Notices

Even if you believe you still qualify for Medi-Cal, missing a deadline or failing to submit requested documents can result in a delay or interruption in your coverage. Read all County notices carefully and respond by the deadline listed in the notice.

If you are unsure what a notice means or what documents you need to provide, ask for assistance rather than waiting until your coverage is affected.

Elica Resource Center Can Help

If you have questions about how the 2026 Medi-Cal changes may affect you, need help understanding a County notice, would like assistance with your Medi-Cal renewal, or need help applying for Medi-Cal, the Elica Resource Center is available to assist.

Call: (916) 454-2345, ext. 1030
Visit: 5735 Watt Avenue, North Highlands, CA 95660
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:00 PM