Act Now for Upcoming Medi-Cal Changes in January 2026 

For many residents of Santa Clara County, Medi-Cal provides essential health benefits including outpatient services, emergency services, hospitalization, prescription drugs, and more. Medi-Cal is California’s version of the federal Medicaid health insurance program for income-qualified individuals.  

Big changes are coming to the Medi-Cal program effective January 1, 2026, making it more important than ever to prepare now, whether you’re applying for benefits for the first time or working to maintain your current coverage. 

For adults 19 years of age or older who do not have a Satisfactory Immigration Status, and are not pregnant, there will be an enrollment freeze on all new full-scope Medi-Cal applications and enrollments. If you are part of this group and already enrolled in full-scope Medi-Cal, you can stay covered regardless of your immigration status as long as you complete your annual renewal. If, for any reason, you lose your coverage, you will be unable to sign up again, except for emergency and pregnancy care.  

For Medi-Cal members and applicants whose eligibility is based on age (65 years and older), with a disability (physical, mental, or developmental), or long- term care needs, assets will once again be taken into consideration during the application and renewal process. The asset limit for one person is $130,000. Assets include bank accounts, cash, and anything over one home and one vehicle.  

If you are part of either group and do not have full-scope Medi-Cal, there is still time to apply before the new eligibility criteria takes effect. Reach out to a community-based organization for assistance applying as soon as possible to become enrolled by or before December 31, 2025.  

If you are part of either group and already have full-scope Medi-Cal, ensure you complete your annual renewals to maintain your coverage. If you miss your renewal date, you will have 90 days to submit the requested documents to resolve the issue. Documents you may need to successfully renew your Medi-Cal benefits include proof of income, expenses, and tax forms.  

Sourcewise is here to help. Connect with a Community Resource Specialist at (408) 350-3200, option 1 for help applying for Medi-Cal and navigating the renewal process.   

All information courtesy of  https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/medi-cal/eligibility/Pages/medi-cal-changes.aspx