How to Apply
Medi-Cal enrollment is year-round. You can apply today easily online or by mail.
- By mail: Download the application from the California Department of Health Care Services. Send your completed and signed application to your local County Department of Social Services office. See locations and addresses to the right.
- Online through Covered California: Complete the Application online. Then, your local County Department of Social Services (DSS) office will process your application and notify you.
- Online through BenefitsCal.com: Complete the Application. Then, your local County Department of Social Services (DSS) office. DSS staff will process your application and notify you.
- In person at the nearest local County Department of Social Services office. They will help you complete your application. See locations and addresses listed below.
Visit The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) – Ways to Apply for Medi-Cal Webpage to learn more.
Update to Medi-CAl
As of January 1, 2024 all county residents, regardless of immigration status, are eligible for full-scope Medi-Cal. To learn more, view the Medi-Cal Expansion Information Document.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Medi-Cal?
Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid health care program. This program pays for a variety of medical services for children and adults with limited income and resources.
Who Determines Who is Eligible?
Eligibility is determined by your local county’s Department of Social Services (DSS). For help, call the office nearest you from the phone numbers listed below.
Who is Eligible for Medi-Cal?
Medi-Cal covers low-income residents of all ages, regardless of immigration status, families with children, seniors, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, children in foster care, and former foster care youth up to age 26.
Local County Department of Social Services Office Locations
Santa Barbara County offices:
For additional help, visit dssoctopus.com.
Santa Barbara
234 Camino del Remedio, Santa Barbara, CA 93110 | 805-681-4401
Santa Maria (two locations)
2125 South Centerpointe Parkway, Santa Maria, CA 93455 | 805-346-7135
1444 South Broadway, Santa Maria, CA 93454 | 805-614-1300
Lompoc
1100 West Laurel Avenue, Lompoc, CA 93436 | 805-737-7080
San Luis Obispo County offices:
Paso Robles
406 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446 | 805-237-3110
Atascadero
9630 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422 | 805-461-6000
Morro Bay
600 Quintana Road, Morro Bay, CA 93442 | 805-772-6405
Nipomo
681 West Tefft Street, Suite 1, Nipomo, CA 93444 | 805-931-1800
Arroyo Grande
1086 East Grand Avenue, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 | 805-474-2000
San Luis Obispo
3433 South Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 | 805-781-1600