Changes Coming to Medi-Cal in 2026–2027: What You Need to Know

Most Medi-Cal members will continue receiving full benefits, including doctor visits, emergency care, prescription drugs, mental health services, and more, but important changes are coming for certain groups. Here’s what to watch for:

Asset Limits Returning for Older Adults and People with Disabilities
Begins January 1, 2026

Medi-Cal will once again consider assets when determining eligibility for people age 65 or older, those with disabilities, and those with long-term care needs.

  • The asset limit is $130,000 for one person. Each additional household member adds $65,000, up to a total of 10 members.
  • Counted assets include bank accounts, cash, extra vehicles, and additional property.
  • Excluded assets include your primary home, one vehicle, household items, and certain savings like retirement accounts.
  • If you’re already enrolled, your assets will be reviewed at your annual renewal. Income rules are not changing.

Enrollment Freeze for Some Undocumented Adults
Begins January 1, 2026

Undocumented adults ages 19 and older who are not pregnant and do not have a satisfactory immigration status will no longer be able to newly enroll in full-scope Medi-Cal.

  • If you are already enrolled, you will stay covered as long as you complete your annual renewal.
  • If you lose coverage, you won’t be able to re-enroll—except for emergency or pregnancy-related care.
  • You’ll have 90 days to fix paperwork issues if your coverage lapses.
  • Children and pregnant individuals can still enroll regardless of immigration status.

Dental Coverage Changes
Begins July 1, 2026

Full dental benefits will end for most undocumented adults.

  • Emergency dental care (such as treatment for pain, infection, or tooth extractions) will still be covered.
  • Pregnant individuals will continue receiving full dental benefits during pregnancy and for one year afterward.

Monthly Premiums for Some Adults
Begins July 1, 2027

Some undocumented adults ages 19 to 59 will need to pay $30 per month to keep full-scope Medi-Cal.

  • If the premium is not paid, coverage will be limited to emergency and pregnancy-related care.
  • Full-scope benefits include preventive care, prescriptions, vision services, mental health care, and more.

What You Can Do to Stay Covered

  • Keep your contact information up to date.
  • Watch for renewal notices and respond on time.
  • Know your renewal date, and contact your county Medi-Cal office if you don’t receive a packet.
  • Keep using your Medi-Cal benefits to support your health and well-being.

If you have questions, call the Medi-Cal Member Help Line at (800) 541-5555, contact your local Medi-Cal office, or reach out to your health plan.