How Much Income Do You Need To Get Medical Assistance?

How Much Income To Get Medical assistance is a common question, and understanding the income thresholds for healthcare programs is essential for accessing affordable medical care. Income-partners.net offers comprehensive guidance on navigating these requirements and finding the right healthcare solutions. Keep reading to discover the types of income affecting Medi-Cal eligibility, strategies for maximizing your benefits, and resources for securing the healthcare you deserve with help from income-based programs, cost-sharing reductions, and government subsidies.

1. What Income Level Qualifies You For Medical Assistance?

The income level that qualifies you for medical assistance varies depending on the specific program and your family size. Generally, programs like Medi-Cal use the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) as a benchmark, with different programs offering eligibility at various percentages of the FPL.

Income-Based Medi-Cal: For adults aged 19-64, eligibility often extends to those with family incomes at or below 138% of the FPL. For children aged 18 or younger, this threshold is higher, typically around 266% of the FPL.
Medi-Cal for Pregnant Women: Pregnant women may qualify with family incomes above 138% of the FPL but at or below 213% of the FPL, covering pregnancy-related services.
Aged & Disabled Federal Poverty Level (A&D FPL) Medi-Cal: This program caters to individuals who are aged (65+) or disabled and not eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). To qualify for A&D FPL Medi-Cal, you must have less than $1,800 in countable monthly income for an individual ($2,433 for a couple).
Medi-Cal’s Working Disabled Program (WDP): If you’re working, disabled, and your income exceeds free Medi-Cal limits, the WDP might be an option. To qualify, your countable income must be less than 250% of the Federal Poverty Level ($3,260 per month for individuals and $4,406 for couples).

Key Considerations:

Countable Income: Not all income is counted towards these limits. Some income, like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits and certain contributions to retirement accounts, may be excluded.
Family Size: Income limits increase with family size, acknowledging the higher costs associated with supporting more individuals.
State Variations: While the FPL provides a general guideline, specific income thresholds and program rules can vary by state.

Example:

For income-based Medi-Cal in California, as of 2024, an individual can qualify if their annual income is at or below $21,597, while a family of four can qualify with an income at or below $44,367. These figures are based on 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

How to Determine Your Eligibility:

Calculate Your Gross Income: Determine your total income before any deductions.
Identify Deductions: Subtract any allowable deductions, such as certain retirement contributions or impairment-related work expenses.
Compare to Income Limits: Compare your countable income to the income limits for the specific medical assistance programs in your state.
Consult with Experts: Seek guidance from a benefits planner or a local social services agency to understand your eligibility and navigate the application process.

Navigating these income requirements can be complex, but resources like income-partners.net can provide valuable information and assistance in determining your eligibility for medical assistance programs. Understanding the specific income limits and how they apply to your situation is the first step toward accessing the healthcare you need.

2. What Are The Income Limits For Medi-Cal In California?

The income limits for Medi-Cal in California vary depending on factors such as age, family size, and specific Medi-Cal program. Here’s a breakdown of the income limits for different categories as of 2024:

1. Income-Based Medi-Cal (MAGI Medi-Cal)

Adults (19-64 years old): Income must be at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
- Individual: $21,597 per year
- Family of Four: $44,367 per year
Children (18 years and younger): Income must be at or below 266% of the FPL.
- A family of four can have an income up to $85,519 per year.
Pregnant Women: If the income is above 138% of FPL, but at or below 213% of FPL.
- $45,050 per year if you are single and pregnant with your first child
- $68,480 per year for a family of four. The unborn baby is counted as a member of the pregnant woman’s family.

2. Aged & Disabled Federal Poverty Level (A&D FPL) Medi-Cal

Eligibility: For individuals who are 65+ or disabled, and not eligible for SSI.
Income Limit:
- Individual: Countable income less than $1,800 per month
- Couple: Countable income less than $2,433 per month

3. Medi-Cal’s Working Disabled Program (WDP)

Eligibility: For disabled individuals who are working and have income too high for regular Medi-Cal.
Income Limit:
- Individual: Countable income less than 250% of the Federal Poverty Level ($3,260 per month)
- Couple: Countable income less than 250% of the Federal Poverty Level ($4,406 per month)

4. Aged, Blind & Disabled – Medically Needy (ABD–MN)

Eligibility: For individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled with income exceeding other Medi-Cal programs.
Income Limit: No specific income limit, but the countable income determines the share of cost.
- Share of Cost: The amount you must pay for medical expenses each month before Medi-Cal starts covering the costs.

5. SSI-Linked Medi-Cal

Eligibility: Individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) automatically qualify for Medi-Cal.
Income Limit: Countable income must be less than the SSI/SSP benefit amount for your living situation.

Here is a summary table of the income limits:

Program	Individual Income Limit (Annual)	Family of 4 Income Limit (Annual)
Income-Based Medi-Cal (Adults)	$21,597	$44,367
Income-Based Medi-Cal (Children)	N/A	$85,519
Medi-Cal for Pregnant Women	$45,050 (single, 1st child)	$68,480
Aged & Disabled Federal Poverty Level (A&D FPL)	$21,600 (Monthly $1,800 * 12)	$29,196 (Monthly $2,433 * 12)
Medi-Cal’s Working Disabled Program (WDP)	$39,120 (Monthly $3,260 * 12)	$52,872 (Monthly $4,406 * 12)

Important Considerations:

Countable Income: Medi-Cal counts both earned and unearned income. However, certain types of income are not counted, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits and some contributions to retirement accounts.
Family Size: Income limits increase with the size of your family.
Assets: For most Medi-Cal programs, there are no asset limits. However, SSI-linked Medi-Cal has asset limits of $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.
Immigrants: As of January 1, 2024, all immigrants in California, regardless of immigration status, are eligible for Medi-Cal if they meet all other program requirements.

How to Apply:

To apply for Medi-Cal, you can:

Apply online through the Covered California website.
Apply by phone by calling Covered California.
Apply in person at your local county human services agency.

Understanding these income limits and the different Medi-Cal programs can help you determine your eligibility and access the healthcare you need. Websites like income-partners.net offer additional resources and information to guide you through the process.

3. What Is The Federal Poverty Level (FPL) And How Does It Relate To Medical Assistance?

The Federal Poverty Level (FPL) is a measure of income issued annually by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). It is used to determine eligibility for various federal and state assistance programs, including medical assistance programs like Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California) and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace subsidies.

How the FPL is Calculated:

The FPL is based on pre-tax income and varies by family size. It is updated each year to account for inflation. In 2024, the FPL for a single individual is $15,060. For a family of four, the FPL is $31,200.

Here are the 2024 FPL thresholds:

Household Size	FPL
1	$15,060
2	$20,440
3	$25,820
4	$31,200
5	$36,580
6	$41,960
7	$47,340
8	$52,720

For households with more than eight people, add $5,380 for each additional person.

How the FPL Relates to Medical Assistance:

Many medical assistance programs use the FPL as a benchmark to determine eligibility. Here’s how it works:

Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California):
- Income-Based Medi-Cal: Eligibility is often based on a percentage of the FPL. For example, adults may qualify if their income is at or below 138% of the FPL.
- Children’s Medi-Cal: Children may qualify with family incomes up to a higher percentage of the FPL, such as 266%.
- Pregnant Women: Pregnant women may also have higher income thresholds, such as up to 213% of the FPL.
Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace Subsidies:
- Premium Tax Credits: These credits help lower the monthly premiums for health insurance plans purchased through the ACA marketplace. Eligibility is based on household income as a percentage of the FPL.
- Cost-Sharing Reductions: These reductions lower out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. They are available to individuals and families with incomes up to 250% of the FPL.

Examples:

Medicaid: In California, an adult applying for income-based Medi-Cal in 2024 can qualify if their income is at or below 138% of the FPL, which is approximately $20,837 per year for an individual.
ACA Marketplace: An individual with an income between 100% and 400% of the FPL may be eligible for premium tax credits to help pay for a health insurance plan purchased through the marketplace.

Why the FPL is Important:

Eligibility Determination: The FPL is a key factor in determining whether you qualify for various medical assistance programs.
Affordability: It helps ensure that healthcare is affordable for low-income individuals and families.
Access to Care: By providing financial assistance, the FPL helps increase access to healthcare services.

Navigating the FPL and Medical Assistance:

Understanding the FPL and its relationship to medical assistance programs can be complex. Resources like income-partners.net can provide valuable information and guidance on determining your eligibility for different programs. Consulting with a benefits planner or a local social services agency can also help you navigate the application process and access the healthcare you need.

4. How Does Income-Based Medi-Cal Work In Relation To The Federal Poverty Guidelines?

Income-Based Medi-Cal, also known as Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) Medi-Cal, provides healthcare coverage to individuals and families with low to moderate incomes. The Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) serve as a crucial benchmark for determining eligibility for this program. Here’s how it works:

1. Using Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG):

Income-Based Medi-Cal uses the FPG to set income thresholds for eligibility. The FPG, updated annually, accounts for household size and is a key factor in determining who qualifies for Medi-Cal.

2. Income Thresholds:

Adults (Ages 19-64):
- To qualify for Income-Based Medi-Cal, adults aged 19 to 64 must have a household income at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
- For example, in 2024, the FPL for an individual is $15,060. Therefore, an adult can qualify for Income-Based Medi-Cal if their annual income is at or below $20,782.80 (138% of $15,060).
Children (Under 19):
- Children under the age of 19 have a higher income threshold. They can qualify for Medi-Cal if their household income is at or below 266% of the FPL.
- For example, a family of four with children can qualify for Medi-Cal if their annual income is at or below $83,112 (266% of $31,200, which is the FPL for a family of four in 2024).
Pregnant Women:
- Pregnant women may be eligible for Medi-Cal with income limits set differently to ensure comprehensive prenatal and postpartum care.
- For example, pregnant women may qualify for Medi-Cal if their household income is above 138% of FPL but at or below 213% of FPL.

3. Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI):

Income-Based Medi-Cal uses the MAGI method to calculate countable income. This method aligns with the tax rules used for the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
MAGI includes:
- Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
- Nontaxable Social Security benefits
- Tax-exempt interest
- Foreign earned income and housing expenses

4. What’s Not Counted as Income:

Certain types of income are not counted towards Medi-Cal eligibility. These may include:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits
- Some contributions to retirement accounts
- Specific educational grants or scholarships

5. No Asset Limits:

One of the significant benefits of Income-Based Medi-Cal is that there are no asset limits. Eligibility is primarily determined by income, making it more accessible for those with limited financial resources.

6. Benefits of Income-Based Medi-Cal:

Comprehensive Coverage: Enrollees receive full-scope Medi-Cal benefits, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, mental health services, and more.
No Cost: Generally, there are no monthly premiums or co-pays for services covered under Income-Based Medi-Cal.

Example:

Suppose a single adult in California earns $1,900 per month, totaling $22,800 annually. Since the income is above 138% of the FPL for an individual in 2024 ($20,782.80), they may not qualify for Income-Based Medi-Cal. However, they might still be eligible for other Medi-Cal programs or subsidies through Covered California, depending on other factors.

How to Apply:

To apply for Income-Based Medi-Cal, you can:
- Apply online through Covered California.
- Apply directly through your local county human services agency.
- Apply by phone by contacting Covered California or your county agency.

Resources:

For more detailed information, visit income-partners.net or the official Covered California website.

By understanding how Income-Based Medi-Cal works in relation to the Federal Poverty Guidelines, individuals and families can better assess their eligibility and access the healthcare coverage they need.

5. Are There Other Ways To Qualify For Medi-Cal If My Income Is Too High?

Yes, even if your income exceeds the limits for Income-Based Medi-Cal, there are alternative pathways to qualify for Medi-Cal in California. These options often cater to specific circumstances such as age, disability, employment status, or medical needs. Here are several ways you may still be eligible for Medi-Cal:

1. Aged & Disabled Federal Poverty Level (A&D FPL) Medi-Cal:

Eligibility: This program is designed for individuals who are 65 or older or have a disability that meets Social Security’s definition, and who are not eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Income Limits: The countable monthly income must be less than $1,800 for an individual or $2,433 for a couple.
Benefits: Provides full-scope Medi-Cal coverage.

2. Medi-Cal’s Working Disabled Program (WDP):

Eligibility: This program is for individuals with disabilities who are employed and whose income is too high for regular Medi-Cal.
Requirements:
- Must meet Social Security’s definition of disability.
- Must be working and earning income (part-time or full-time).
- Countable income must be less than 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Benefits: Offers full-scope Medi-Cal coverage.

3. Aged, Blind & Disabled – Medically Needy (ABD-MN) Medi-Cal:

Eligibility: This option is available for individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have income that exceeds the limits for other Medi-Cal programs.
Share of Cost: Those eligible may have to pay a “share of cost,” which is the amount they must pay for medical services each month before Medi-Cal begins to cover expenses.

4. SSI-Linked Medi-Cal:

Eligibility: If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you automatically qualify for Medi-Cal. SSI is a federal program that provides cash assistance to aged, blind, and disabled individuals with limited income and resources.
Benefits: Provides full-scope Medi-Cal coverage.

5. Staying on Medi-Cal Through SSI 1619(b):

Eligibility: If your SSI benefits end due to returning to work, you may still be eligible for Medi-Cal through the 1619(b) provision.
Requirements:
- Must have been eligible for SSI benefits for at least one month.
- Must need Medi-Cal coverage to continue working.
- Must meet all other SSI requirements, such as having resources below $2,000.
- Annual gross income must be less than $64,517 (as of 2024, but this amount may change).

6. Medically Needy Only (MNO) Medi-Cal:

Eligibility: For individuals who do not meet the criteria for other Medi-Cal programs but have significant medical expenses.
Share of Cost: Enrollees may be required to pay a share of cost before Medi-Cal coverage begins.

7. Covered California Subsidies:

Eligibility: If you do not qualify for Medi-Cal, you may be eligible for subsidies through Covered California, the state’s health insurance marketplace.
Premium Assistance: These subsidies can lower your monthly premiums for a health insurance plan.
Cost-Sharing Reductions: Depending on your income, you may also qualify for cost-sharing reductions, which lower your out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles and copays.

How to Determine Your Eligibility:

Assess Your Situation: Evaluate your age, disability status, employment, and medical needs.
Calculate Your Income: Determine your countable income, considering any deductions or exclusions.
Research Available Programs: Investigate the specific eligibility requirements for each Medi-Cal program.
Contact a Benefits Planner: Seek advice from a benefits planner or a local county social services agency for personalized guidance.

Understanding these alternative pathways can help you access the healthcare coverage you need, even if your income is too high for standard Income-Based Medi-Cal. Resources like income-partners.net offer valuable information and support to navigate these options.

6. What Types Of Income Are Counted Towards Medi-Cal Eligibility?

When determining eligibility for Medi-Cal, various types of income are considered. Understanding which sources of income count can help you accurately assess your eligibility for different Medi-Cal programs. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Earned Income:

Definition: Earned income includes wages, salaries, tips, and other taxable compensation received for work performed.
Examples:
- Wages from a job
- Salaries from employment
- Tips received from customers
- Self-employment income (after deducting business expenses)

2. Unearned Income:

Definition: Unearned income includes income received from sources other than employment.
Examples:
- Social Security benefits (retirement, disability, survivors)
- Pension payments
- Unemployment benefits
- Interest income
- Dividends from investments
- Rental income
- Alimony
- Workers’ compensation

3. Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI):

Definition: For Income-Based Medi-Cal, the income calculation is based on the Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) method. This method aligns with the tax rules used for the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
MAGI includes:
- Adjusted Gross Income (AGI): Your gross income minus certain deductions, such as contributions to traditional IRA accounts, student loan interest, and alimony payments.
- Nontaxable Social Security benefits: The portion of your Social Security benefits that are not subject to federal income tax.
- Tax-exempt interest: Interest income that is exempt from federal income tax.
- Foreign earned income and housing expenses: Income earned while working abroad and housing expenses paid in a foreign country.

4. Income Exclusions:

Definition: Certain types of income are excluded from the Medi-Cal eligibility determination. These exclusions can vary depending on the specific Medi-Cal program.
Examples:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits: Payments received from the SSI program are typically excluded.
- Certain retirement contributions: Contributions to certain retirement accounts may be excluded.
- Specific educational grants or scholarships: Funds received for educational purposes may be excluded.
- Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs): For some programs, expenses related to a disability that are necessary for work may be deducted from income.
- Blind Work Expenses (BWEs): For individuals who are blind, certain expenses related to work may be deducted.

5. Special Considerations:

Self-Employment Income: Self-employment income is calculated as total revenue minus allowable business expenses. It’s important to keep accurate records of income and expenses to determine your countable income.
Rental Income: Rental income is calculated as total rental revenue minus allowable expenses, such as mortgage interest, property taxes, and maintenance costs.
Disability Income: Some disability income, like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), may be counted as unearned income. However, for certain programs like Medi-Cal’s Working Disabled Program (WDP), disability income is not counted.
In-Kind Income: In-kind income, such as free rent or food, is generally not counted as income for Medi-Cal eligibility.

How to Determine Countable Income:

Calculate Gross Income: Start by calculating your total gross income, including both earned and unearned income.
Identify Exclusions: Determine which types of income are excluded from the eligibility determination based on the specific Medi-Cal program.
Apply Deductions: Apply any allowable deductions, such as business expenses for self-employment income or impairment-related work expenses.
Calculate Countable Income: Subtract the exclusions and deductions from your gross income to arrive at your countable income.

Understanding the types of income that are counted towards Medi-Cal eligibility can help you accurately assess your eligibility for different programs. Resources like income-partners.net offer valuable information and support to navigate these complex rules and regulations.

7. What Are Some Strategies To Lower My Countable Income For Medi-Cal Eligibility?

Lowering your countable income can increase your chances of qualifying for Medi-Cal or other medical assistance programs. While it’s essential to follow all legal and ethical guidelines, here are some strategies to consider:

1. Maximize Retirement Contributions:

Strategy: Contributing to tax-deferred retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s or traditional IRAs, can reduce your adjusted gross income (AGI).
How it Works: Contributions to these accounts are typically deducted from your taxable income, lowering your overall income for Medi-Cal eligibility purposes.
Example: If you contribute $5,000 to a traditional IRA, you can reduce your AGI by $5,000.

2. Utilize Health Savings Accounts (HSAs):

Strategy: If you have a high-deductible health plan, you can contribute to a Health Savings Account (HSA).
How it Works: Contributions to an HSA are tax-deductible, reducing your taxable income. The funds can be used for qualified medical expenses.
Example: If you contribute $3,000 to an HSA, you can reduce your taxable income by $3,000.

3. Deductible Business Expenses (For Self-Employed Individuals):

Strategy: If you are self-employed, ensure you are deducting all eligible business expenses.
How it Works: Deductible expenses reduce your net self-employment income, which is used to determine Medi-Cal eligibility.
Examples:
- Office supplies
- Business-related travel expenses
- Advertising costs
- Home office deduction (if applicable)

4. Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs):

Strategy: If you have a disability and are employed, you may be able to deduct impairment-related work expenses.
How it Works: IRWEs are expenses you incur that are necessary for you to work due to your disability.
Examples:
- Assistive devices
- Attendant care services
- Transportation costs related to your disability

5. Blind Work Expenses (BWEs):

Strategy: If you are blind, you may be able to deduct blind work expenses.
How it Works: BWEs are expenses you incur that are necessary for you to work due to your blindness.
Examples:
- Guide dog expenses
- Transportation costs related to your blindness
- Special equipment or technology

6. Adjust Alimony Payments:

Strategy: If you are paying alimony, it may be deductible from your income.
How it Works: Alimony payments made under divorce or separation agreements executed before December 31, 2018, are deductible from your gross income.

7. Invest in Tax-Exempt Municipal Bonds:

Strategy: Investing in tax-exempt municipal bonds can provide income that is not subject to federal income tax.
How it Works: The interest income from these bonds is not included in your adjusted gross income (AGI), potentially lowering your countable income for Medi-Cal eligibility.

8. Manage Capital Gains:

Strategy: Be mindful of capital gains when selling assets, such as stocks or real estate.
How it Works: Capital gains are included in your income, so consider strategies to minimize them, such as:
- Holding assets for longer than one year to qualify for lower long-term capital gains rates.
- Offsetting gains with capital losses.

9. Consult with a Financial Advisor:

Strategy: Seek advice from a qualified financial advisor who can help you develop a comprehensive financial plan.
How it Works: A financial advisor can provide personalized strategies to minimize your taxable income while meeting your financial goals.

Important Considerations:

Legal and Ethical Compliance: Ensure that all strategies you employ are legal and ethical.
Professional Advice: Consult with a tax professional or financial advisor before making any significant financial decisions.
Program Rules: Understand the specific rules and regulations of the Medi-Cal program you are applying for, as income calculation methods and exclusions may vary.

By implementing these strategies, you may be able to lower your countable income and increase your eligibility for Medi-Cal or other medical assistance programs. Resources like income-partners.net offer valuable information and support to navigate these complex rules and regulations.

8. What Resources Are Available To Help Me Understand And Apply For Medi-Cal?

Navigating the Medi-Cal system can be complex, but numerous resources are available to help you understand your eligibility, complete the application process, and access the healthcare you need. Here are some key resources:

1. Covered California:

Website: Covered California is the state’s health insurance marketplace, where you can apply for Medi-Cal or a Covered California health plan.
Services:
- Online application: You can apply for Medi-Cal online through the Covered California website.
- Plan comparison: Compare different health plans and see if you qualify for financial assistance.
- Enrollment assistance: Get help with the enrollment process from certified enrollers or navigators.
Contact:
- Phone: 1-800-300-1506

2. County Social Services Agencies:

Local Offices: Each county in California has a social services agency that can assist with Medi-Cal applications and eligibility determinations.
Services:
- In-person assistance: Get help with your Medi-Cal application at your local county office.
- Eligibility information: Learn about the different Medi-Cal programs and eligibility requirements.
- Case management: Receive ongoing support and assistance from a case manager.

3. Medi-Cal Managed Care Plans:

Health Plans: If you are enrolled in Medi-Cal, you may be required to choose a managed care plan. These plans provide healthcare services through a network of doctors, hospitals, and other providers.
Services:
- Provider directories: Find doctors and other healthcare providers in your plan’s network.
- Member services: Get help with questions about your coverage, benefits, and services.
- Health education: Access resources and programs to help you stay healthy.

4. Community Health Centers:

Local Clinics: Community health centers provide affordable healthcare services to low-income individuals and families.
Services:
- Primary care: Get medical care from doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
- Preventive care: Access services like vaccinations, screenings, and health education.
- Mental health services: Receive counseling and other mental health support.
Find a Center: Use the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) website to find a community health center near you.

5. Legal Aid Organizations:

Free Legal Services: Legal aid organizations provide free legal assistance to low-income individuals and families.
Services:
- Advice and representation: Get legal advice and representation on issues related to healthcare access and eligibility.
- Advocacy: Advocate for your rights and help you navigate the Medi-Cal system.
Find an Organization: Use the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) website to find a legal aid organization in your area.

6. Disability Rights California:

Advocacy for People with Disabilities: Disability Rights California is a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of people with disabilities.
Services:
- Legal assistance: Get legal assistance with issues related to healthcare access and eligibility for people with disabilities.
- Advocacy: Advocate for your rights and help you navigate the Medi-Cal system.
Contact:
- Phone: 1-800-776-5746

7. Income-Partners.Net:

Online Resource: income-partners.net offers a wealth of information and resources to help you understand and apply for Medi-Cal.
Services:
- Informative articles: Access articles on Medi-Cal eligibility, income requirements, and strategies to lower your countable income.
- Program guides: Learn about the different Medi-Cal programs and how they work.
- Resource directory: Find links to other helpful resources, such as Covered California, county social services agencies, and legal aid organizations.

By utilizing these resources, you can gain a better understanding of the Medi-Cal system and access the healthcare coverage you need.

9. How Does Asset Ownership Affect Medi-Cal Eligibility?

Asset ownership and its impact on Medi-Cal eligibility is a critical consideration for many applicants. The rules surrounding assets can vary significantly depending on the specific Medi-Cal program. Here’s a comprehensive overview:

1. Income-Based Medi-Cal (MAGI Medi-Cal):

Asset Test: There is generally no asset test for Income-Based Medi-Cal. Eligibility is primarily determined by income, making it more accessible for those with limited financial resources. This means that assets like savings accounts, stocks, bonds, and real estate do not directly affect eligibility.

2. Aged & Disabled Federal Poverty Level (A&D FPL) Medi-Cal:

Asset Test: The A&D FPL Medi-Cal program does not have an asset limit. This means that eligibility is determined based on income rather than the value of your assets.

3. Medi-Cal’s Working Disabled Program (WDP):

Asset Test: The WDP program does not have an asset limit. Eligibility is primarily determined by income and employment status.

4. Aged, Blind & Disabled – Medically Needy (ABD-MN) Medi-Cal:

Asset Test: As of January 1, 2024, the asset limit has been eliminated for ABD-MN Medi-Cal. Previously, there was an asset limit of $130,000 for individuals and $65,000 for couples, but now eligibility is primarily determined by income and medical expenses.

5. SSI-Linked Medi-Cal:

Asset Test: For SSI-Linked Medi-Cal, which is provided to individuals who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), there are asset limits.
- Individual: Assets must not exceed $2,000.
- Couple: Assets must not exceed $3,000.
Countable Assets: Countable assets include cash, savings accounts, stocks, bonds, and other financial investments. Certain assets, such as a primary residence and a vehicle, may be exempt.

6. Exempt Assets:

Primary Residence: Generally, your primary residence is exempt from asset calculations for most Medi-Cal programs, provided that you (or your spouse) live there.
Vehicle: One vehicle is typically exempt from asset calculations, regardless of its value.