Feb 25, 2025: Executive Order Targeting Immigrants and Federal Assistance Programs

The executive order issued last week does not alter eligibility for federally funded public benefits. Undocumented individuals remain eligible for very few public benefits, which are typically protected by federal law and cannot be changed by executive order alone. Families should continue to use benefits they are eligible for until further notice. Check back for updates

Nov 12, 2024: Important Update for Immigrant Families

Despite the recent election, no immigration or public benefits rules have changed or are likely to change before January 20, 2025. We are closely monitoring any policy changes and will keep this page current with the latest information. Please check back here for updates and reliable guidance.

Nov 12, 2024: Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Health Coverage Update

Starting November 1, 2024, people with DACA status can sign up for health and dental plans through Covered California. Those who qualify may get help paying for their plan.

DACA recipients have a special enrollment period from November 1 to December 31, 2024. To sign up, select "gained lawful presence" on the application. If you enroll in November, your coverage could start as soon as December 1, 2024.

This special enrollment period overlaps with Covered California’s open enrollment. This means DACA recipients can also sign up for health and dental plans for 2025 during this time.

Jan 1, 2024: Medi-Cal for All

• Starting in 2024, all low-income California residents may qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal, regardless of age or immigration status. Apply here.

• Getting Medi-Cal does not affect immigration status. *(unless used for long-term, institutional care, like a nursing home)

It has been a year since the Biden Administration Public Charge regulation became effective.  https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/dhss-public-charge-final-rule-goes-into-effect-on-dec-23

• The regulation confirms that getting CalFresh or Medi-Cal** does not affect your immigration options. **(unless used for long-term, institutional care, like a nursing home)
• For additional information on immigrants and benefits, refer to our Guide: https://keepyourbenefits.org/en/na/use-the-guide

May 1, 2023: Keep Your Medi-Cal

If you had Medi-Cal during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, Medi-Cal renewals are no longer automatic.

• Look for renewal papers in the mail from your county.
• If you’ve moved, make sure the county has your current contact information.

Want to renew your Medi-Cal?

• Complete your renewal forms when you receive them,
• Contact your county social services agency, or
• Renew online at: dhcs.ca.gov

Getting Medi-Cal does not affect immigration status.*

• Use the Guide: keepyourbenefits.org/en/ca/use-the-guide

California residents, ages 0-25 years & 50+ years, may qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal  regardless of immigration status. Starting 2024, California residents of any age may qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal.

*(unless used for long-term, institutional care)