From an elder law perspective, the upcoming reinstatement of the Medi-Cal asset limit is getting all the headlines. However, some additional changes are looming over the horizon for undocumented individuals who have not secured satisfactory immigration statuses.
Adult Enrollment Freeze
Starting on New Year’s Day, 2026, Medi-Cal is putting a freeze on new enrollments for undocumented people 19 years of age and older who are not pregnant.
Individuals in this group who are already enrolled will not be impacted regardless of immigration status. However, they still have to go through the annual renewal process as usual.
Dental Coverage
Another change involves dental coverage for people without satisfactory immigration statuses. These benefits will no longer be available starting July 1, 2026, but emergency dental care will still be covered.
Monthly Premiums
The final change doesn’t take effect until July 1, 2027. At that time, undocumented Medi-Cal beneficiaries between the ages of 19 and 59 without satisfactory immigration statuses will be required to pay a $30 a month premium to retain full-scope Medi-Cal coverage.
Consider an Estate Plan Review!
These changes may not impact you directly, but this news is instructive on another level. Laws that impact estate planning strategies have changed over the years. If your plan was created many years ago, updates may be necessary to reflect the current legal landscape.
In addition, your own perspective and life situation may have evolved since you put your plan in place. With the new year approaching, now is the ideal time to set up a review. You can call us at 925-516-4888 to schedule an appointment, and you can use our contact form to send us a message. Please feel free to reach out if you have questions on these or any other Medi-Cal changes that are coming soon. We are here to help you and your family plan for your future.
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