Medi-Cal is California's free or low-cost health insurance program. 15.4 million Californians are enrolled. Find out if you qualify — and how to apply — in plain English.
Check Your Eligibility in 30 Seconds →Medi-Cal is California's version of Medicaid — the federal and state-funded health insurance program for people with low or no income. It provides free or very low-cost comprehensive health coverage, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, mental health treatment, dental care, and more.
Unlike Covered California plans (which charge monthly premiums), most Medi-Cal members pay no premium at all. Copays, when they apply, are minimal and capped at 5% of household income annually. For most people at or below 138% of the federal poverty level, Medi-Cal is completely free.
Medi-Cal is administered by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and delivered through county social services offices and Managed Care plans.
Most working-age adults (19–64) qualify for Medi-Cal through the MAGI (Modified Adjusted Gross Income) pathway at 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. Children and pregnant people qualify at higher limits.
| Household Size | Monthly Limit (MAGI) | Annual Limit | Children's Limit (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,836 | $22,025 | — |
| 2 people | $2,480 | $29,760 | $4,784 |
| 3 people | $3,143 | $37,702 | $6,057 |
| 4 people | $3,806 | $45,642 | $7,332 |
| 5 people | $4,469 | $53,628 | $8,607 |
| 6 people | $5,132 | $61,584 | $9,882 |
| 7 people | $5,795 | $69,540 | $11,157 |
| 8 people | $6,458 | $77,496 | $12,432 |
Source: 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines (138% MAGI threshold for adults; 266% for children in most counties). Children's limits shown for household of that size. Figures for illustrative purposes — always verify at BenefitsCal.com.
What counts as income? MAGI includes wages, self-employment income, Social Security benefits, interest, and most other taxable income. Pre-tax contributions to a 401(k), HSA, or health insurance premiums can lower your MAGI and may help you qualify.
Medi-Cal covers a wide range of Californians. Below are the main eligibility categories:
Income at or below 138% FPL. U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and most qualified immigrants. No asset test applies — savings and property don't count.
Income up to 266% FPL (about $6,057/month for a family of 3). Citizenship or immigration status requirements may be more flexible than for adults.
Income up to 213% FPL during pregnancy. Coverage begins immediately upon determination and continues 12 months postpartum. Includes prenatal and delivery care.
Eligible through the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) program. Asset limits were reinstated in 2026 for this non-MAGI pathway: $130,000 for an individual, $195,000 for a couple.
DACA recipients who meet income requirements qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal. Status under DACA does not need to be disclosed in ways that trigger immigration concerns.
Permanent residents, refugees, asylees, parolees, and many other qualified immigrants are eligible for full-scope Medi-Cal on the same terms as citizens.
Full-scope Medi-Cal provides comprehensive health coverage. Here's what's included:
Most Medi-Cal members receive care through a Managed Care Plan — a health plan similar to an HMO that coordinates your coverage. You choose a primary care doctor and get referrals for specialists. In some rural counties, Medi-Cal is provided through a fee-for-service model instead.
You can apply any time — there's no enrollment period. Applications are accepted year-round and processed within 45 days for MAGI programs.
Visit BenefitsCal.com — California's official benefits portal. Create an account, complete the application, and upload documents digitally. You'll get a confirmation immediately and a decision within 45 days.
Visit CoveredCA.com or call 1-800-300-1506. When you apply for Covered California, the system automatically checks your Medi-Cal eligibility. If you qualify for Medi-Cal, you'll be enrolled automatically.
Visit your county social services office (also called county Department of Social Services, DPSS, or HHS). Staff can help you complete the application and answer questions. Bring proof of identity, income, residency, and immigration status if applicable.
Call your county Medi-Cal office directly. Paper applications can also be mailed — download the SAWS 2 Plus form from DHCS.ca.gov. Processing by mail may take longer.
Documents you may need: Photo ID (driver's license, passport, or ID card), proof of California residency (utility bill, lease), proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, or a self-attestation form), Social Security number (if available), and immigration documents if applicable. Not having all documents doesn't prevent you from applying — you can provide them later.
Retroactive coverage: Medi-Cal can cover eligible medical expenses going back up to 3 months before your application date. If you had medical bills before you applied, ask about retroactive coverage when you apply.
For standard MAGI Medi-Cal — which covers most adults under 65, children, and pregnant people — there is no asset test in 2026. Savings accounts, a car, or a home are not counted. Only non-MAGI programs for seniors (65+) reinstated an asset test on January 1, 2026.
Medi-Cal is explicitly excluded from the federal public charge rule for most visa categories. Using Medi-Cal is not a negative factor for green card applications under most immigration pathways. If you have specific immigration concerns, consult an immigration attorney — but for most people, there is no public charge risk from Medi-Cal.
Many working Californians qualify. A single adult earning up to $1,836/month qualifies in 2026. A family of 4 earning up to $3,806/month qualifies. Income from some sources may not be counted, and pre-tax deductions (401k, health premiums) lower your MAGI. Always apply and let the county decide.
California significantly limited Medi-Cal estate recovery. The state can only seek recovery for long-term care services provided after age 55. For most Medi-Cal recipients under 55, or those who only receive standard medical care, there is no estate claim. This rule was clarified and restricted in recent years.
Medi-Cal has no enrollment period. Unlike Covered California private plans, you can apply for Medi-Cal any day of the year and coverage can begin the same month you apply. If you qualify, you're in.
Many Californians who qualify for Medi-Cal also qualify for other benefits programs. Use our free screener to check all programs at once:
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