In March 2020, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services temporarily waived certain Medicaid— known as Medi-Cal in California —in response to COVID-19. The easing of these rules helped people with Medi-Cal keep their health coverage during the pandemic. However, a new law ended Medi-Cal continuous coverage on March 31, 2023, and requires states to restart eligibility renewals beginning April 1, 2023.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Be on the lookout for a Medi-Cal renewal letter in the mail from the Department of Social Services (DPSS). Make sure your name, address, email address, and phone number are up to date with DPSS. This will make it possible for them to contact you when it’s time for your renewal.
   Remember: Update your address if it has changed. You don’t want to miss this important mail so you can keep your Medi-Cal.
2. When it’s time for your renewal, DPSS will try to renew your Medi-Cal based on the information they have. DPSS will only ask you for more information if they need it to renew your Medi-Cal. If you receive a renewal packet or a letter asking for more information, you must respond with the required information.

If you need assistance with updating your contact information with DPSS, or submitting your Medi-Cal renewal, we can help you! Our friendly and bilingual staff is here to ease your stress and confusion during this transition.