MedicaidAdministrativeHigh impact
Reminder: Medi-Cal Providers May Not Charge Members to Complete Forms or Provide Information
Medi-Cal·CA·Provider Bulletin
We identified it
Aug 14, 2026
Summary
Medi-Cal providers are prohibited from charging patients any fees for completing forms or providing information needed to support claims or appeals for public benefit program eligibility. This is a reminder of existing California Health & Safety Code Section 123114 requirements, as DHCS has observed an increase in improper fee-charging practices.
Action Required
Immediately: Billing team and front desk staff must review current practices to ensure NO fees are being charged to Medi-Cal members for: completing eligibility forms, prior authorization forms, appeal documentation, or providing supporting information for benefit eligibility claims. Audit all current fee schedules and patient intake forms in billing system and paper processes. Remove any language or procedures that charge patients for form completion or information provision. Train all staff on this prohibition. Communicate policy to all providers. Failure to comply risks legal penalties under California Health & Safety Code Section 123114 and member complaints to DHCS.