If you did not turn in your renewal form by the deadline listed on your letter from the County, your Medi-Cal coverage may have stopped. But in many cases, you still have time to get it back.
This is especially important if you have young children. Regular checkups, vaccines, dental visits, and developmental screenings in the first five years are critical for healthy growth and learning. Keeping Medi-Cal active helps make sure your child gets the care they need.
Good News: You May Have 90 Days to Fix It
If your coverage recently ended, you have 90 days from the date it stopped to:
– Turn in your renewal form
– Send any missing documents
– Update your information
If you do this within 90 days, you may be able to restart your coverage without filling out a brand-new application.
Do not wait. Call right away to see if your case is still open.
Contact one of the following:
– Your health plan (Anthem Blue Cross, Kaiser, or Santa Clara Family Health Plan)
Ask:
– Is my case still open?
– What do I need to turn in?
– What is my deadline?
If you or your child need urgent medical care, you can still seek care. However, you may receive a bill if coverage is not restored.
If more than 90 days have passed since your coverage ended, you will need to submit a new Medi-Cal application.
Some adults with certain immigration statuses may only qualify for limited (emergency-only) coverage if they reapply. If you are unsure, contact the County or a trusted community partner for help.
Free Help Is Available
You do not have to figure this out alone.
You can get free help with your renewal or application at:
– The SCFHP Blanca Alvarado Community Resource Center
Other Available Resources:
– Health Care Options host in-person presentations throughout the year and help individuals to complete forms. Santa Clara’s 2026 Schedule Health Care Options Presentations for Santa Clara County 2026.
– DHCS is offering a Community Ambassador Webinar on January 29th at 10:00am, to discuss ways to engage community and inform them about available health coverage options.
Staff can:
– Help you fill out forms
– Explain what documents you need
– Answer questions
– Help you talk to your health plan
Why This Matters for Young Children
The first five years are when children’s brains grow the fastest. Regular health visits help make sure children are:
Growing well
Meeting developmental milestones
Up to date on vaccines
Getting dental care
Receiving support if delays are found early
Keeping Medi-Cal active helps protect your child’s health — and gives your family peace of mind.
If you missed your renewal deadline, take action today. Call your County office or health plan and ask about your options. You may still have time.
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