The Community Health Services Department is dedicated to helping patients and community members access the vital healthcare resources they need. By providing assistance with applying for Medi-Cal, offering support throughout the application process, and guiding individuals through the submission of necessary documents via the Medi-Cal portal, we strive to empower our community and promote health and well-being for all.
What is Medi-Cal?
Medi-Cal is a government-funded healthcare program in California that offers comprehensive medical coverage to people who meet certain eligibility criteria. The program is designed to provide free or low-cost health services, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more, to individuals and families who are unable to afford health insurance on their own.
Who is eligible for Medi-Cal?
To be eligible for Medi-Cal, you must reside in California and meet specific requirements, including having an income below the Medi-Cal limit. However, if your income is above the Medi-Cal limit, you may still qualify for assistance in paying for private health care. You may qualify for health insurance even if you are not a U.S. citizen or a U.S. national.
How to Apply
There are 5 different ways you can apply for Medi-Cal:
- Online: www.benefitscal.com
- By Phone: 1-877-410-8823
- By Fax: 831-784-5691
- In Person
- Mail: Monterey County Department of Social Services 1488 Schilling Pl Salinas, CA 93901
Immigration Status
From January 1, 2024, eligibility for full Medi-Cal benefits has been extended to more people, regardless of their immigration status. Applying for Medi-Cal will not impact immigration status.
Required Documents for Application
- Proof of Identification: ID, passport, or driver’s license Identification is required for all who appear on the application
- Proof of Income: Check stubs for the month of application or unemployment stubs/verification
In case the applicant is not working, the applicant can write a letter stating the last day of work and that there is no incoming income. The letter must be signed and dated.
CSVS Offers Support
As Community Health Advocates, we are dedicated to ensuring that everyone in our community has access to the healthcare they deserve. That’s why we offer a wide range of services to assist with Medi-Cal applications.
Our team is available to assist with completing and submitting initial Medi-Cal applications, ensuring that all necessary documents are sent and any questions you may have are answered. We also provide ongoing support for applications that have already been submitted, including following up with Monterey County’s Social Services Department and resolving any issues that may arise. We offer these services in Spanish, English, and Triqui de San Juan Copala!
Application Process at CSVS
- Schedule your telephone appointment for the Medi-Cal application by calling or texting us at (831)262-0319
- Complete and submit the electronic application with the required documents.
- Within 45 days, the Monterey County Department of Social Services will notify if the application needs additional information or if it was approved or denied.
Social Services Department in Monterey County
Do you need to visit the social services department? There are three social services departments in the Monterey County!
Salinas
1000 S Main St, Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 755-4448
Seaside
1281 Broadway Ave, Seaside, CA 93955
(831) 899-8001
King City
116 Broadway St, King City, CA 93930
(831) 385-7400
