Medi-Cal is California’s public health care insurance program. Medi-Cal is administered through the Department of Health Care Services supported by federal and state funding. Since the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, on January 1, 2014, Medi-Cal has expanded and is available to eligible individuals of all ages.
Medi-Cal is available to eligible California residents and is primarily based on income, property and household tax filing status. Your eligibility worker will make the determination based on your unique situation whether property is countable or exempt. Medi-Cal may be free of cost, with a share of cost or with a monthly premium.
If you are not eligible to receive Medi-Cal benefits your application may also be reviewed for other health insurance coverage through Covered California.
Medi-Cal covers health, dental and vision services. Coverage is available for individuals who meet eligibility criteria …. (must be a resident of California and be a US Citizen Naturalized Citizen, Legal Permanent Resident or child under age 19. Restricted benefits (limited to pregnancy/emergency) services may be available for adults 19 years of age or older without satisfactory immigration status assuming all other eligibility criteria are met.
If you are determined eligible your coverage begins on the first day of the application month. A Benefit Issuance Card (BIC) will be issued to you. Your BIC is a white card with blue lettering or has a picture of the California flower. This card should be retained and must be presented at time of service. If you are found eligible to full medical coverage you will also receive an additional card from Central California Alliance. Make sure to present both cards at the time of service including pharmacy/prescription services.
Are you 50 years of age or older? Have you not been able to get full scope Medi-Cal because of your immigration status?
Beginning May 1, 2022 all California residents who are 50 years of age or older and who meet all Medi-Cal eligibility criteria will qualify for full scope Medi-Cal. Immigration status does not matter.
Full scope Medi-Cal provides comprehensive health care including medical, dental, mental health, family planning, foot care, hearing aids, and vision care (eyeglasses), including services to help you remain in your home such as in-Home Supportive Services if you need assistance with daily activities. Full scope Medi-Cal also covers treatment for alcohol and drug use, medicine your doctors orders, and more. Contact your local county office today for more information.
Asset Limit ChangesOn July 1, 2022 the asset limit for Medi-Cal programs for people who are 65 or older or disabled is increasing.
These changes apply to things you own, which can be counted for Medi-Cal eligibility. These items include bank accounts, cash, second vehicles and homes, and other financial resources.
The previous limits were $2,000 for one person, and $3,000 for a couple.
The new limits are $130,000 for one person, and an additional $65,000 for each additional family member.
If you believe you may be eligible for Medi-Cal once the new limits start, you are encouraged to apply. If you are already in a Medi-Cal program which has asset limits, you will be able to keep more than you could before. Contact your local county office today for more information.
