CalFresh Update 2026-02: California’s Standard Medical Deduction (SMD) Demonstration Project

CalFresh Handbook 

Date	References	Clerical	Implementation
2/25/26	ACL 26-04	N/A	Immediately

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Background

The USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) originally authorized the California Department of Social Services to implement a project streamlining medical expense verification for CalFresh households with elderly or disabled members. Rather than requiring proof of actual monthly medical costs above $35, the project established a Standard Medical Deduction (SMD), which has been updated and extended several times since its initial approval in 2017.

Changes

FNS has approved the extension of the project for the period beginning October 1, 2025, and ending September 30, 2029.

The topic Excess Medical Costs has been revised.

 

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Department of Employment & Benefits Services

Contact Person(s): Ana Guitron, SSA BPIS