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CalFresh Update 2024 -11 Standard Medical Deduction
CalFresh Handbook
| Date | References | Clerical | Implementation |
| 09/27/24 | ACL 24-59 | N/A | 10/1/24 |
Background
The standard medical deduction (SMD) of $120 is allowed for households containing an elderly and/or disabled member with verified medical expenses exceeding $35.01 per month without requiring verification of actual medical expenses.
Changes
The SMD amount will increase from $120 to $150 starting October 1, 2024. Households that verify medical expenses between $35.01 and $185.00 per month will now receive a standard medical deduction of $150.
To qualify for the SMD, a household with an elderly or disabled member must verify that their monthly medical expenses are more than $35. However, they are not required to verify all of their monthly medical expenses. For instance, if the household incurs medical expenses of $40 and $50 per month, they only need to provide proof of one expense that exceeds $35.
Households that want to claim monthly medical expenses exceeding $185.00 must provide proof of the actual expenses. If a household claims medical expenses above $185.00 per month without verifying them, the household may receive the SMD based on verified expenses between $35.01 and $185.00.
Refer to the Standard Medical Deduction Section for more information.
Documentation
A journal entry should indicate what excess medical expenses are allowed for the household.
Data Systems
CalSAWS implemented the change on September 6, 2024.
Forms
None.
Other Programs
The change only impacts the CalFresh Program.
Department of Employment & Benefits Services
Contact Person(s): Michelle Demetrius, Ana Guitron, BPIS, 408 755-7540