As a result of the state’s budget bill passed in June 2025 and the federal government’s H.R. 1, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill, signed into law in July 2025, changes to Medi-Cal and CalFresh eligibility rules will take effect on various dates starting January 2026. The new rules will include additional eligibility requirements, reduced benefits or potential ineligibility for certain populations. Both current recipients and future applicants will be impacted by these changes. Effective dates are subject to change based on state and federal guidance.
Medi-Cal Changes per California Department of Health Care Services
CalFresh Changes per California Department of Social Services
Medi-Cal: Reinstated Asset Limits
Effective January 1, 2026, adults 65 and older, people with disabilities, and those who are in a family that exceeds income limits under federal tax rules will need to meet asset requirements to receive Medi-Cal. Countable assets include bank accounts, cash and properties such as more than one house or vehicle.
Medi-Cal: Full-Scope Enrollment Freeze
Effective January 1, 2026, adults 19 or older, not pregnant and undocumented or without satisfactory immigration status, will no longer qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal coverage if they apply for benefits on or after January 1, 2026. They may only qualify for restricted Medi-Cal which covers emergency, pregnancy-related and nursing home care.
This rule applies to new enrollments only; individuals who already have full-scope Medi-Cal will not lose their coverage but must fill out their renewal form on time to keep their benefits. New applicants affected by this change may still apply for full-scope benefits through December 31, 2025.