Medi-Cal helpline: (800) 541-5555 · free
A California organization

Keep your Medi-Cal.
In your language. Reducing administrative burden.

Every year, California residents must renew their Medi-Cal coverage. We provide free, plain-language guidance in nine languages, helping relieve the administrative burden so no eligible Californian loses coverage over paperwork.

9languages supported
58California counties
$0always free
The 3-step renewal

Most renewals take under 30 minutes online.

  • 1Watch for your renewal packet in the mail (yellow envelope)
  • 2Gather documents: ID, proof of income, address
  • 3Submit online at BenefitsCal.com before your due date
Where to start

Straightforward tools, not more paperwork.

Three focused ways to get the help you need, designed for real families, tested with real questions.

575+
People reached
25+
Awareness events
9
Languages supported
What's changing in 2026 Updated October 2026

Several Medi-Cal rules shifted in 2026. Here's what to know.

Both state and federal law changed Medi-Cal in 2026, through California's 2025 budget and the federal H.R. 1 bill. If you're renewing or applying this year, some rules may be different than last year.

Jan 2026
Asset limits returned
For non-MAGI Medi-Cal programs (seniors 65+, people with disabilities, long-term care, Share of Cost), assets of $130,000 (individual) or $195,000 (couple) now apply, plus $65,000 per additional household member. Home, one vehicle, and personal belongings remain exempt. Current enrollees don't need to report assets until their next renewal.
Jan 2026
Enrollment freeze for some adults
New full-scope enrollment paused for certain adults based on immigration status. Those already enrolled keep their coverage. Restricted-scope (emergency, pregnancy, nursing-home) remains available.
Jan 2026
Prescription updates
GLP-1 medications are no longer covered when prescribed for weight loss (coverage continues for type 2 diabetes and other medical indications). Some OTC products and COVID-19 tests also changed.
Oct 2026
Federal eligibility narrowed
A new federal rule narrows which immigration statuses qualify for federally-funded full-scope Medicaid. California is providing state-funded coverage for affected members through June 30, 2027.
Nov 2026 ballot
Proposition 40, healthcare funding measure
A statewide ballot measure on the Nov 3, 2026 ballot would create a one-time 5% tax on California billionaires (net worth over $1B as of Jan 1, 2026). About 90% of revenue would fund healthcare, primarily Medi-Cal, with 10% for food assistance and public education. We're sharing this for awareness only, not as an endorsement. See the official nonpartisan voter guide for arguments on both sides.
Important: We summarize these updates for awareness only. Rules can be category-specific and phased in on different timelines. For your situation, check the official DHCS Medi-Cal Changes page or call (800) 541-5555. AccessMed California does not take positions on ballot measures; the Prop 40 note is informational only.
How renewal works

Three steps between you and continuous coverage.

Watch for your packet

Renewal notices arrive by mail in a yellow envelope, or in your BenefitsCal account. If you moved recently, update your address first.

Gather documents

Typically: photo ID, proof of income (pay stubs or benefit letters), and proof of California residence. Our Renewal Check builds a list for your situation.

Submit before the due date

The fastest way is online at BenefitsCal.com. You can also renew by phone, by mail, or in person at your county office.

Get in touch

Questions? Reach out, we respond within one business day.

For urgent Medi-Cal questions, call the official DHCS helpline at (800) 541-5555. For questions about our work, guidance in your language, or bringing an awareness event to your community, email us.

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AccessBotRenewal assistant · online
AccessBot provides general guidance only. For decisions about your case, contact your county or call (800) 541-5555.