Ventura County residents enrolled in Medi‑Cal or CalFresh will see several eligibility and renewal changes over the next three years as California implements new federal and state requirements. County Human Services Agencies across the state have begun issuing alerts to help households prepare for adjustments that will take effect between 2025 and 2028.
Medi‑Cal Changes
Six‑Month Renewals Beginning in 2027
The California Department of Health Care Services will shift many adults ages 19 to 64 from annual renewals to six‑month renewals starting January 1, 2027. This change is required under federal law and will increase the number of times households must confirm eligibility each year.
Work and Community Engagement Requirements
Beginning in 2027, some adults ages 19 to 64 will need to meet work, school, training, or volunteer activity requirements to maintain Medi‑Cal coverage. Exemptions will apply for pregnancy, disability, and certain caregiving situations. Additional implementation details will be released closer to the effective date.
Asset Test Returning in 2026
California will reinstate an asset test for older adults and people with disabilities starting January 1, 2026. The test applies to non‑MAGI Medi‑Cal programs and will require applicants and renewing members to report assets such as savings, secondary vehicles, and secondary properties. The primary home remains exempt.
Changes for Undocumented Adults
Beginning January 1, 2026, some undocumented adults ages 19 and older will no longer be able to newly enroll in full‑scope Medi‑Cal. Individuals already enrolled may keep coverage if they renew on time. Children and pregnant individuals remain eligible for full‑scope benefits.
Dental Coverage Adjustments
Some adult dental benefits will change for certain immigration categories beginning July 1, 2026. Emergency dental services will remain available.
CalFresh Changes
Utility Cost Calculation Update in 2025
Starting November 1, 2025, households without a member over age 60 or with a disability must have separate heating or cooling costs to qualify for the Standard Utility Allowance. This change may reduce benefits for some households.
Noncitizen Eligibility Changes in 2026
Federal changes taking effect April 1, 2026, will narrow CalFresh eligibility for several noncitizen categories. Households will be evaluated under the new rules at their next renewal.
Expanded Work Requirements
Beginning June 1, 2026, more CalFresh recipients will be required to participate in work or community engagement activities. This expansion aligns with federal Able‑Bodied Adults Without Dependents requirements.
Why Counties Are Issuing Alerts
Ventura County and other counties are notifying residents because many of these changes take effect only when a household reaches its renewal month. With six‑month Medi‑Cal renewals beginning in 2027 and expanded work requirements for both programs, missing paperwork or deadlines may lead to interruptions in benefits.
What Residents Can Do
Residents are encouraged to keep their contact information updated with the county, open all mail from Human Services Agencies, and respond promptly to renewal notices. DHCS and CDSS will continue releasing implementation details as federal timelines approach.