Medi-Cal changes in 2027: who pays a premium, how much, and what to do

This page explains the 2027 Medi-Cal changes in one place. Other DNLH pages give a short version and link here. It is general information, not legal advice.

Who these changes are for

The changes apply to Medi-Cal members the state lists with "unsatisfactory immigration status." That includes undocumented adults, adults with DACA and other PRUCOL groups, and green card holders in the five year wait (DHCS chart). Citizens and green card holders past the five year wait are not in this group.

January 1, 2027: Fee for Service

You leave your Medi-Cal health plan and get care through Fee for Service. This applies at every age in this group. The state says this changes how you get care, not whether you keep Medi-Cal.

• Bring your Medi-Cal BIC card to every visit. Health plan cards stop working for you.
• Find a doctor or clinic that takes Fee for Service on the state's Find care page, or call the Medi-Cal Help Line, 1-800-541-5555.

July 1, 2027: a monthly premium

Adults 19 to 59 in this group will pay a monthly fee, called a premium, to keep full Medi-Cal. For some statuses, such as green card holders in the five year wait, the DHCS chart starts the premium at age 21.

• Who does not pay: adults 60 and older, children under 19, pregnant people (and for one year after), and people under 26 who were in foster care on their 18th birthday.
• How much: not set yet. It will be $30 to $50 a month per person. Your county will send the final amount by letter.
• If you do not pay: your Medi-Cal changes to restricted scope, which covers emergency and pregnancy care (DHCS).
• Plan for it now. At the top of the range, $50, a couple would pay $100 a month. If that is hard, ask your county worker what help exists before July 2027.

Why pages show different amounts

You may see different numbers in different places. Here is what each source says.

The Legislative Analyst's Office also says the amount is not set yet. Your county letter has the final word.

July 1, 2027: dental for emergencies only

Adults in this group keep emergency dental care, such as help for tooth pain, infections and pulling a tooth. Full dental care ends. Children, pregnant people and former foster youth under 26 keep full dental. If you need dental work, ask your dentist about getting it done before July 1, 2027.

What to do now

• Renew on time. If your Medi-Cal ends, you have three months to sign up again. After that you are treated as a new applicant and may get only restricted scope Medi-Cal.
• Keep your address current with your county, and open every county letter.
• Before January: ask your clinic, "Do you take Fee for Service Medi-Cal in 2027?" Keep your BIC card with you.
• Before July: book dental work you need, and set money aside for the premium.

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