Changes to CalFresh and Medi-Cal Programs
Due to the passing of House Resolution 1 (HR 1) on July 4, 2025, important CalFresh and Medi-Cal updates are coming. Some households may see changes to their benefits. Help is available. Check your postal mail and stay connected with the County of San Diego so you don't miss important information. While most people will continue to qualify for benefits or coverage, you are encouraged to take this opportunity to update your contact information to ensure you will receive important updates. For any questions or assistance, you can contact the Access Customer Service Center at 1-866-262-9881, visit a local Family Resource Center, or check online through your BenefitsCal portal. |
This page contains an overview of changes to CalFresh and Medi-Cal programs. Click the links below for additional information and available resources.
Noncitizen Eligibility
Recent changes to federal law limits CalFresh to certain groups of noncitizens starting April 1, 2026. If you are now receiving CalFresh and will be impacted by these changes, your benefits will be re-evaluated at your next renewal.
Work Requirements
Effective June 1, 2026, work requirements will apply to Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs).
Reinstatement of Asset Limits
Starting January 1, 2026, the State of California will require that the County checks for assets when you apply or renew your Medi-Cal. Assets are things of value that you own.
Enrollment Freeze for Adult Immigrants
Starting January 1, 2026, some adults lost the ability to sign up for full-scope Medi-Cal coverage based on their immigration status. This is due to state budget changes in 2025.
Dental Coverage for Adult Immigrants
Starting July 1, 2026, some adults will stop getting full scope dental services as part of their Medi-Cal coverage.
Restrictions on Lawful Immigrant Eligibility
Starting October 1, 2026, the federal government will change how some immigration statuses are classified for federally funded full scope Medi-Cal benefits.
Work and Community Engagement Requirements
Starting January 1, 2027, the federal government will require that some adults meet the new Work and Community Engagement rules to get or keep Medi-Cal.
Six-Month Eligibility Checks
Starting January 1, 2027, the federal government will require that adults ages 19-64 get their eligibility checked twice a year instead of once.
Less Time to Get Help Paying Old Medical Bills
Starting January 1, 2027, the federal government will change how Medi-Cal covers old medical bills. Medi-Cal will pay for one month of past bills before you apply for adults without children. For all others, Medi-Cal will pay for up to two months of past bills.
Monthly Premiums for Adult Immigrants
Starting July 1, 2027, due to California state budget changes, some adults will need to pay a small monthly premium to keep their full scope Medi-Cal.
Copayments for Medi-Cal
Starting October 1, 2028, the federal government will require that some adults on Medi-Cal pay a small fee (called a co-payment) for certain services.
For case status and updates contact our Access Customer Service Center at 1-866-262-9881 or 211 for additional resources.
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