San Bernardino County tells Medi-Cal members to prepare for 2027 work and renewal rules

San Bernardino County is urging Medi-Cal members to prepare for new federal work, community engagement and renewal requirements that take effect in 2027 under H.R. 1. The rules apply to some adults ages 19 through 64 who get Medi-Cal through the Affordable Care Act expansion, a group known as the New Adult Group.

Starting Jan. 1, 2027, certain new applicants will be evaluated for the requirements when they apply, the county said. For current members, changes begin in March 2027, and members will get notices explaining what applies to them and whether they need to send more information. Not all Medi-Cal members will be affected, and many who are will qualify for an exemption, the county said.

Affected members generally must log at least 80 hours a month of paid, self-employed or in-kind work; volunteering or community service; or a qualifying work or job-training program. Attending school at least half-time or having monthly income of at least $580, which equals 80 hours at the federal minimum wage, also counts, and members can combine activities to reach 80 hours. Other options may apply to seasonal workers or people whose hours or income fluctuate.

Some members can be excused, including people who are pregnant or receiving postpartum care, parents or caretakers of children 13 or younger, people with medical conditions or disabilities that prevent them from meeting the requirements, people with Medicare, American Indian or Alaska Native people and certain former foster youth younger than 26.

Affected members will also have their eligibility reviewed every six months instead of once a year. A member who renews in March 2027, for example, would renew again in September 2027. Being excused from the work requirement does not automatically excuse a member from six-month renewals, the county said.

The California Department of Health Care Services began a text message campaign in February 2026 and started mailing letters to current New Adult Group members in August, the county said. The county is including the information in application materials through the end of the year.

To avoid gaps in coverage, the county advised members to keep their mailing address, phone number and email current; check mail and online accounts for Medi-Cal notices; return renewal forms and requested information by the deadline; report changes in income or household; and contact the county Medi-Cal office with questions.

Members can manage benefits, report changes, upload documents and review notices on BenefitsCal. The county said more details on verification, forms and timelines will be shared as guidance becomes available.

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