Navigating the Medi-Cal Renewal Process: Step-by-Step Support

Every year, millions of Californians depend on Medi-Cal for healthcare access—but what many don’t realize is that this coverage doesn’t renew itself. Failing to renew on time can mean losing benefits that literally keep people alive. That’s why understanding the Medi-Cal Renewal Process isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

After COVID-era policies temporarily paused redeterminations, the state has now resumed yearly renewals. If you’re a Medi-Cal member, you’ll need to prove you’re still eligible or risk losing coverage. The good news? It’s manageable, especially with the right steps and a little guidance.

This blog gives you the full roadmap—from paperwork to deadlines—and answers the most common questions people have when navigating the Medi-Cal maze.

Jump to:

TLDR – Quick Guide

• Medi-Cal requires annual renewal to maintain coverage.
  
• Renewals resumed in April 2023 after a pandemic pause, meaning millions are now at risk of disenrollment.
  
• Keep your contact info updated with your county to receive renewal packets and avoid delays.
  
• Renewal can be done by mail, online, phone, or in-person.
  
• If you need help, organizations like Angeles Del Sol ECM offer free support to walk you through the process.
  

Detailed Breakdown

Why Renewing Medi-Cal Is So Important

Medi-Cal isn’t just another government program—it’s a safety net for over 15 million Californians. But to stay covered, you have to show that you still meet income and eligibility requirements every year.

During the pandemic, the federal government paused redeterminations, allowing people to stay enrolled without yearly proof. But as of April 2023, counties are once again reviewing cases. That means if you miss your renewal date or don’t respond to notices, you could lose coverage—even if you’re still eligible.

Step-by-Step: How to Renew Your Medi-Cal Coverage

Step 1: Watch for Your Renewal Packet

Your county will send you a yellow renewal form in the mail. This usually happens around the anniversary month of when you first enrolled. If you’ve moved or changed your number, update your contact info ASAP with your local county office.

Step 2: Review and Complete the Packet

Double-check your income, household members, and other information. Fill out any sections that need updates. If you don’t need to make changes, you might only need to sign and return the form.

Step 3: Choose a Submission Method

You can return your renewal via:

• Mail using the prepaid envelope
  
• Online through BenefitsCal
  
• In-person at your local county human services office
  
• Phone (some counties accept verbal renewal)
  

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

You typically have 30–45 days to respond. Miss that window, and your case may close.

Step 5: Follow Up and Keep Documentation

After submission, you might receive a confirmation or request for more documents. Respond quickly and keep copies of everything for your records.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Ignoring mail from your county
  
• Failing to update your address or phone number
  
• Missing the deadline to respond
  
• Not seeking help if confused
  

Organizations like Angeles Del Sol ECM can guide you through the process, help fill out paperwork, and even contact the county on your behalf—completely free of charge.

Who Can Help?

If English isn’t your first language or if paperwork stresses you out, don’t go it alone. Certified enrollers, case managers, and nonprofit organizations are trained to provide one-on-one help.

Many even offer:

• In-person assistance
  
• Document collection help
  
• Follow-up with county offices
  
• Language interpretation

Key Takeaways

• The Medi-Cal Renewal Process is crucial to maintaining your health coverage.
  
• Don’t wait—check your mail and update your contact information today.
  
• You can renew by mail, online, in-person, or over the phone, depending on your county.
  
• If the paperwork feels overwhelming, free help is available through trusted local organizations.
  

Missing your renewal can lead to losing benefits—even if you’re still eligible—so act early and stay proactive.

FAQs