CalFresh and Medi-Cal Work Requirements

Information current as of September 23, 2026.

CalFresh and Medi-Cal rules are changing. New state and federal policies will affect eligibility, reporting, and renewal. Staying informed and acting early can help you keep your benefits.

Beginning June 1, 2026, some adults ages 18–64 who receive CalFresh may need to meet work requirements to continue receiving benefits for more than 3 months within a 36‑month period, unless they are exempt.

Starting January 1, 2027, some adults enrolled in Medi-Cal will be required to work, volunteer, or attend school to maintain their Medi-Cal coverage. If these requirements apply to you, the Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance (DHA) and the state Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) will send you a letter.

What Are Work Requirements?

If you are able to work and not exempt, you must complete monthly hours in approved work-related or volunteer activities to keep your benefits.

Exemptions from Work Requirements

For CalFresh

  • Under age 18 or over 64 years old
  • Physically or mentally unfit for employment
  • Obviously unfit for employment
  • Participating in an Office of Refugee Resettlement training program at least half-time
  • Live in the same CalFresh Household as a child under 14 years old
  • Pregnant
  • Native American, Alaska Native, or Tribal Member
  • Receiving or applied for unemployment compensation
  • Participating in a drug or alcoholic treatment and rehabilitation program that prohibits employment of 20 hours a week.
  • T & U Visa recipients that lack work authorization documents

For Medi-Cal

  • Under age 18 or over 64 years old
  • Pregnant
  • Parents and caregivers of children under 4 years old
  • People with disabilities
  • People with serious physical or mental health conditions, or substance use problems
  • Released from jail or prison in the last 90 days
  • Receiving Medicare Part A or Part B
  • Native American, Alaska Native, or Tribal Member
  • People under age 26 who were in foster care on their 18th birthday

Ways to Meet Work Requirements

For CalFresh

  • Employment
  • Community Service
  • Employment & Training activities

For Medi-Cal

  • Employment
  • Community engagement activities including education or community service
  • Employment & Training activities

These activities help you maintain benefits while contributing to your community.

Have questions or need assistance? Please visit our Contact Us page.