Medi-Cal provides no-cost or low-cost healthcare coverage for many people in California. If you reside in California, you should know what is necessary to qualify, as well as key changes in the program in 2026.
What Is Medi-Cal?
Medi-Cal is the state of California’s version of Medicaid and is overseen by the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). It is for low-income residents of California and their families, and makes no to low-cost health care coverage accessible to many people who cannot afford private health insurance.
Medi-Cal Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for Medi-Cal, you must live in California and meet certain eligibility requirements. These include:
- Income Limits
- For adults, the limit is 138% of the federal poverty levels (FPL), which is $21,597 per year for one person, $44,367 per year for a family of four.
- For children 19 and under, the limit is 266% of FPL, which is $41,629/year for one, $85,519/year for a family of four.
- For pregnant women, the limit is 322% FPL, or up to 213% FPL depending on certain rules.
- Assets: In 2026, asset limits are $130,000 for one person, $195,000 for a couple. In some cases, there may be no asset limits.
- Immigration Status: You must be a citizen or meet certain immigration requirements. However, some benefits are available regardless of status, particularly for children and pregnant women.
Key Changes to Medi-Cal in 2026
It’s important to understand some key changes to the Medi-Cal program in 2026.
- For long-term care applicants, there is a $130,000 asset limit plus $65,000 for each additional household member.
- Income will now be verified twice per year with pay stubs or tax returns.
- New enrollment will be frozen for undocumented immigrants in some cases. Existing members may also be affected by this change.
- Asset exemptions have been added to include your home, one vehicle, and some retirement funds.
How to Apply for Medi-Cal
You can apply for Medi-Cal in several ways.
- Online
- Go to CoveredCA.com
- Create an account and apply
- The system automatically checks Medi-Cal eligibility first
- If you qualify, your application is sent directly to your county
- Apply Through Your County (Online, Phone, or In-Person)
Every county handles final approval.
- Find your local office: BenefitsCal.com
- Apply online, upload documents, and track your case
- Or call / visit your county social services office
- Apply by Phone
- Call 1-800-300-1506
- Available in multiple languages
- They’ll walk you through the whole application
- Apply by Mail
You can download and mail the Single Streamlined Application:
- English and other languages available
- Mail it to your county Medi-Cal office
Documents Needed to Apply for Medi-Cal
When you apply, you’ll need the following documents.
- Driver’s license or I.D.
- Proof of citizenship including social security number and immigration documents.
- Income verification in the form of paystubs, W-2s, or tax returns.
- Asset verification such as bank statements and property records.
Medi-Cal Benefits
Medi-Cal offers comprehensive coverage for a variety of services.
Medical Benefits
Medical coverage includes routine doctor visits, preventive care such as annual checkups, screenings, and vaccines, and hospital services for both inpatient and outpatient care. Members are also covered for emergency services, lab tests, X-rays, prescription medications, and the treatment and management of chronic conditions.
Dental Care (Denti-Cal)
Medi-Cal includes dental coverage for both adults and children through the Denti-Cal program. Covered services include exams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, root canals, dentures, and some oral surgeries.
Vision Care
Vision services under Medi-Cal include routine eye exams, coverage for eyeglasses or contact lenses, and treatment for eye diseases.
Mental Health and Substance Use Services
Medi-Cal offers coverage for mental health and substance use disorder treatment, including outpatient therapy and counseling, psychiatric services, inpatient mental health care, and substance use disorder treatment programs.
Pregnancy and Family Planning
For pregnant women, Medi-Cal covers prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum care for up to 12 months. Family planning services, including birth control and reproductive health care, are also included.
Children’s Benefits (EPSDT)
Children and teens enrolled in Medi-Cal receive additional benefits through the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) program. This includes regular developmental screenings, vision and hearing services, behavioral health care, and therapies such as speech, occupational, and physical therapy.
Transportation Services
Medi-Cal covers non-emergency medical transportation for members who need help getting to medical appointments.
Long-Term and In-Home Care
For seniors and individuals with disabilities who qualify, Medi-Cal provides long-term care services such as nursing home care and home health services.
Additional Covered Services
Medi-Cal also covers a variety of additional services, including medical equipment, hospice and palliative care, home health visits, and interpreter services.
In Closing
Medi-Cal offers valuable health care coverage for low-income residents who qualify. It’s a great option for many people who have no other health insurance options. At Health Service Alliance, we are proud to accept Medi-Cal. If you don’t have Medi-Cal or other insurance but need care, we can help you to find coverage options that meet your needs without delaying treatment. We are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized, and accessible care regardless of your ability to pay. Reach out today to learn more.
