Attention: The California Department of Health Care Services has begun sending text messages about 2027 Work and Community Engagement Requirements for Medi-Cal. This is a legitimate message. Starting January 2027, certain Medi-Cal recipients will be asked to prove they are working or volunteering during their renewal periods. SSA staff will review cases to determine exemptions. At this time, no action is required.
Online
Apply for Medi-Cal benefits online at BenefitsCal.com. To learn more about BenefitsCal, including new features and capabilities, click here.
In Person
- Applications for the Medi-Cal Program can be completed in person
- To begin the process you will need to locate the Social Services Regional Center that serves your city or zip code.
- You should be prepared to spend a minimum of two hours at the Social Services Regional Center
- Unless there is an emergent need for medical care, benefits may not be issued the same day
By Phone
- Apply during business hours Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. at 1-800-281-9799 / TTY 714-834-8500
- Get Social Services Agency office hours and locations
- Obtain secure and private benefit information for CalWORKs, CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and/or General Relief
- Request a replacement Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) and/or Medi-Cal Card
- Access Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
By Fax
- You can fax your Medi-Cal application at 1-714-645-3489
Links
- Social Services Agency Regional Centers by City
- Social Services Agency Regional Centers by Zip Code
- Social Services Agency Regional Center Locations
If you are unable to access any of these documents please call 1-800-281-9799 and one will be sent to you
For information on Covered California
- Visit www.coveredca.com or call toll free at 1-800-300-1506
- Get information on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
- Compare and purchase health insurance and access financial assistance to pay for coverage
