Medi-Cal is Changing. Here’s What To Do if You’re Worried About Coverage

August 12, 2026

California's Medi-Cal program is implementing significant changes due to federal and state budget cuts, though most beneficiaries will remain unaffected. Non-citizens, including undocumented immigrants and green card holders, face the most substantial impact from these policy shifts. Starting March 2026, eligibility checks will occur every six months for working-age adults and many immigrants, while a new asset limit of $21,000 for individuals takes effect in July 2027 for seniors and people with disabilities.

Who is affected

Non-citizens (undocumented immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, people with pending immigration cases, and green card holders)
Approximately 5 million Californians who gained coverage under Obama-era Medicaid expansion (childless adults and those earning slightly above federal poverty level)
Adults ages 19-64 subject to six-month eligibility checks
Seniors (65+) and people with disabilities subject to new asset limits
Couples with combined assets exceeding $31,000

What action is being taken

The state is mailing letters to affected individuals
County benefits offices and the state are requesting beneficiaries update their contact information
Promotoras and community health workers are meeting with people in neighborhoods to explain benefits and help with applications
Community clinics are providing benefits counseling through staff counselors
Legal aid groups are offering free advice for confusing notices through hotlines and websites

Why it matters

These changes represent a significant shift in California's healthcare safety net that could result in coverage loss for vulnerable populations, particularly non-citizens and those who gained coverage through Medicaid expansion. The new requirements create additional administrative burdens and potential barriers to maintaining healthcare access, especially for low-income individuals who may struggle to meet stricter eligibility verification requirements or asset limits. The policy changes come at a time when healthcare stability is crucial, and loss of coverage could leave millions without access to necessary medical services.

What's next

Beginning March 2026: Six-month eligibility checks will start for adults ages 19-64 and many immigrants
Starting July 1, 2027: Asset limits of $21,000 (individuals) and $31,000 (couples) will take effect for seniors and people with disabilities
The state will send notices to affected beneficiaries (specific timeline not yet announced)
Individuals who receive termination notices can appeal and request state hearings to freeze adverse actions
Those who lose coverage have 90 days to restore benefits by submitting requested information

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint