Medi-Cal for Seniors — and the 2026 Asset Rule Change Families Need to Know
State FAQ page last modified 7/14/2026.
What it is
Medi-Cal is California's free/low-cost health coverage. For people 65+ it can pay for what Medicare doesn't — including long-term care at home (IHSS), PACE, nursing-home care, dental, vision, and rides.
Who can get it
Seniors with limited income — AND, again since January 1, 2026, limited countable assets. This changed recently, and much of what the internet says is out of date: in 2024–2025 assets didn't count at all; a new state law brought the asset test back on 1/1/2026.
The current asset rules, from the state's own FAQ
- Through June 30, 2027: you can own up to $130,000 (one person; +$65,000 per additional household member) in counted assets.
- Starting July 1, 2027 the limit drops sharply: $21,000 for one person, $31,000 for two.
- NOT counted: the home you live in, one vehicle, household items, retirement funds paying you regularly.
- Counted: bank accounts, cash, second cars, second homes.
- If you're already on Medi-Cal, you'll report assets at your renewal — nothing to do before then.
- Careful with gifts: for nursing-home/long-term care, Medi-Cal now looks back 30 months at assets given away on or after 1/1/2026 and can delay coverage. Giving money away before applying is not a safe "trick" — for large-asset questions, an elder-law attorney is the right advisor (we list them; we don't give legal advice).
How to start
Check the income chart and apply: dhcs.ca.gov/medi-cal/qualify (online via BenefitsCal, or through the county office).
In LA County the Medi-Cal office is DPSS; LA County I&A (800) 510-2020 can point you to help with the application.
Asset questions: the state FAQ (offers Armenian, Russian, Spanish + more).
Official sources
We describe programs; we don't make medical, legal, or insurance decisions for you. For Medicare choices, HICAP counselors advise you free: (800) 434-0222. For anything medical, talk with the doctor.