Undocumented children to gain Medi-Cal through Covered California

Covered California will be performing an update to their online application that will allow undocumented children to become eligible for full-scope Medi-Cal benefits on May 16, 2016. Children under 19 years of age and whose household income is below 266% of the federal poverty level will not have to verify their immigration status. They will not have to provide proof of citizenship, lawful presence, or proof of immigration status in order to become eligible for Medi-Cal.

This update will go into effect on May 16^th with the CalHEERS update version 16.4.

16.4.1: Full scope Medi-Cal access for children without eligible immigration status (SB-75)

Under a new California law to be implemented on May 1, 2016, children under 19 years of age in households up to 266% FPL (Income Guidelines) may be eligible for full-scope MAGI Medi-Cal benefits regardless of immigration and lawfully present status, as long as they meet all other eligibility requirements.

• Beginning May 16, CalHEERS will place applicants under 19 that have not indicated “Eligible Immigration Status” in the online application into full-scope MAGI Medi-Cal aid codes if their income and household size meet all other Medi-Cal eligibility requirements.
• Children found eligible for this program will no longer be asked to provide Proof of Citizenship, Lawful Presence or Proof of Immigration Status when applying for Covered California.
• Consumers seeking to apply for a child without eligible immigration status between May 1st and May 16th may be referred to the appropriate county office for assistance.
• Children under 19 with an existing restricted-scope Medi-Cal eligibility determination will be reviewed and re-determined by a County Eligibility Worker.