Public Benefits Changes Coming Soon

Starting January 1, 2026 

Enrollment restrictions for undocumented Californians
Undocumented Californians age 19 and above who currently do not receive Medi-Cal benefits will no longer be able to enroll for full medical coverage through Medi-Cal.  (Exceptions apply for undocumented foster youth.)  

What to do now:  SFHSA strongly encourages these individuals to apply for full Medi-Cal before January 1, 2026 to get the healthcare they need in one of these ways:

• Online: BenefitsCal.com
• By phone: (415) 557-5000 
• In person at an SFHSA Service Center: 1235 Mission Street | 1440 Harrison Street | 3120 Mission Street.  | 2 Gough Street for older adults and people with disabilities

Asset limits are reinstated
When you apply for or renew your Medi-Cal, we will evaluate your assets, which are the things you own that have value, such as cash, bank accounts, and properties. 

You may be affected if you are over 65, have a disability, or live in a nursing home or with a family that makes too much money to qualify under federal tax rules. The asset limit for individuals will be $130,000 and $65,000 for each additional household member (up to 10). ​​Get details on asset limits.​

There are no changes for: 

• The monthly income rules for Medi-Cal
• Full coverage for existing Medi-Cal recipients: Californians who already have full coverage should renew their coverage when their Medi-Cal renewal is due to keep their benefits. This applies to all Medi-Cal recipients regardless of immigration status or age.
• Full coverage for children ages 0-18 and pregnant people: They can still enroll in full-scope Medi-Cal, regardless of immigration status. Coverage is for the entire pregnancy and one year after the pregnancy ends. Full-scope Medi-Cal coverage includes doctor visits, dental, vision, and mental health services. 

Starting July 1, 2026 

• Dental benefits end for undocumented adults: Medi-Cal recipients age 19 and older who are undocumented or have temporary immigration status will lose dental benefits. 

Starting January 1, 2027

• Renewal required every six months for most adults: Most adults ages 19-64 without disabilities or children 18 or younger will need to renew their Medi-Cal every six months instead of yearly.
• New work/school/community service rules for most adults: Adults ages 19-64 who are physically and mentally capable of working and without children age 18 or younger must work, attend school, or do community service for at least 80 hours each month to qualify. Many people, including those unable to work due to mental or physical challenges or a substance use disorder, will be exempt from the rules 

Starting July 1, 2027 

• Monthly premium required for some non-citizens: Medi-Cal recipients ages 19–59 who are undocumented or have a temporary immigration status will begin paying a $30 monthly premium per person. 

For more information 

See the state's updates on all upcoming changes to Medi-Cal.

Starting December 1, 2025 

• Minimum benefit for older adults and adults with disabilities: Households of two or more people age 60 and over and/or with a disability are guaranteed a minimum monthly benefit of $60.  This is a one-year trial change.  

February 1, 2026 

• Work/school/community service rules for most adults: Adults ages 18-64 who are physically and mentally capable of working will be required to work, do community service, or attend school at least 80 hours each month. Many people, including those who have a child under age 14 at home or are unable to work due to mental or physical challenges, may be exempt from the rules. People who are not exempt and do not meet the requirements will lose benefits after three months during a three-year period.