The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors is asking adult immigrants without insurance to sign up for Medi‑Cal before Dec. 31, 2025.
Why: Starting Jan. 1, 2026, adults 19 and older who have what the state calls “unsatisfactory immigration status” (UIS), including undocumented residents, will no longer be able to enroll in full Medi-Cal coverage. The change in eligibility is the result of state budget cuts, according to county officials.
What to do: If you qualify now, enroll this year so your coverage continues when the rules change. Existing UIS adult enrollees will keep most benefits, but dental coverage ends July 2026.
What stays the same: Children under 19, pregnant women and their infants won’t be affected by immigration status. Also, adults with UIS can still receive Emergency Medi-Cal (only emergency treatment) after the change. Finally, already-enrolled UIS adults must stay in touch with the county and complete annual renewals — or risk losing full benefits.
How to enroll: Call the Contra Costa County Employment & Human Services Department (EHSD) at (866) 663-3225 or apply online at BenefitsCal.com.
For more details, see the state’s Medi-Cal Immigrant Eligibility FAQs.
“We want undocumented members of our community to know they need to act quickly and sign up for Medi-Cal before it’s too late,” said Board of Supervisors Chair Candace Andersen. “Enrolling now will ensure they’re covered when the rules change.”
