Written & Reviewed by Akash Biswas, MSW | Former Medicaid Caseworker Trainer | Verified against DHCS and LA County DPSS official guidelines | Last Updated: April 2026
Quick Summary
- Medi-Cal is free or low-cost health coverage for low-income LA County residents
- Most adults (ages 19–64) qualify if income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
- Children can qualify with household income up to 266% FPL
- New 2026 rules include reinstated asset limits and an enrollment freeze for some undocumented adults
- Apply anytime at BenefitsCal.com or call LA County DPSS at 1-866-613-3777
- 👉 Use our free Medicaid Calculator to check your eligibility
What Is Medi-Cal?
Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program. It gives free or low-cost health coverage to people with low income.
In Los Angeles County, the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) manages Medi-Cal applications and renewals.
Eligibility is based on your income compared to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Most programs use a system called Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) to measure what you earn.
If you want to compare programs across states, see our guide to Medicaid income limits by state in 2026.
Who Qualifies for Medi-Cal in Los Angeles County in 2026?
Los Angeles County serves millions of residents through Medi-Cal. Your eligibility depends on your age, income, household size, and immigration status. Below are the main groups that can qualify.
Adults Ages 19–64
Adults without children may qualify for no-cost Medi-Cal if their income is at or below 138% FPL. This is the ACA Medicaid expansion group. You do not need to have children or a disability to qualify.
Children Ages 0–18
Children can qualify with household income up to 266% FPL. Children are covered regardless of immigration status. This includes both Medi-Cal and CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program).
Pregnant Individuals
Pregnant people qualify with income up to 213% FPL. Coverage stays in place through the full pregnancy and for 12 months postpartum. If your income is between 213% and 322% FPL, you may qualify for the Medi-Cal Access Program (MCAP) instead. Pregnant individuals are covered regardless of immigration status.
Seniors Age 65+ and People with Disabilities
Seniors and people with disabilities use non-MAGI rules. Income limits are the same as adults (138% FPL), but these applicants are now also subject to asset limits as of January 1, 2026. See the asset limit section below for full details.
Former Foster Youth
Former foster youth qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal up to age 26 if they were in foster care on their 18th birthday. This group is also exempt from the 2026 enrollment freeze.
Long-Term Care and Nursing Home Residents
If you live in a nursing home, there is no strict income limit. Instead, nearly all of your monthly income goes toward care costs. A small Personal Needs Allowance is kept — $35/month, or $62/month if you also receive SSI.
Medi-Cal Income Limits 2026 — Los Angeles County
The 2026 income limits come from the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), effective January 1, 2026. These numbers apply statewide, including Los Angeles County.
For a full breakdown of how California compares to other states, visit our overview of California Medicaid eligibility in 2026.
Annual Income Limits — Adults Ages 19–64 (138% FPL)
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $21,597 |
| 2 | $29,187 |
| 3 | $36,777 |
| 4 | $44,367 |
| 5 | $51,957 |
| 6 | $59,547 |
| 7 | $67,137 |
| 8 | $74,727 |
| Each additional person | Add $7,590 |
Source: California DHCS, 2026 FPL Calculation Chart, updated January 29, 2026.
Monthly Income Limits — Adults Ages 19–64 (138% FPL)
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,836 |
| 2 | $2,490 |
| 3 | $3,143 |
| 4 | $3,795 |
| 5 | $4,450 |
| 6 | $5,102 |
| 7 | $5,755 |
| 8 | $6,409 |
Source: California DHCS, Enclosure 1, ACWDL2601.
Income Limits by Program Category (2026)
| Program | Income Limit (FPL) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults 19–64 (ACA Expansion) | 138% FPL | No asset test |
| Children 0–18 | 266% FPL | All immigration statuses |
| Pregnant Individuals | 213% FPL | Plus 12 months postpartum |
| MCAP (Pregnant) | 213%–322% FPL | State-funded supplement |
| Seniors / Disabilities | 138% FPL | Asset test applies |
| Long-Term Care | No income limit | Income applied to care cost |
2026 Asset Limits — What Changed?
Asset limits were removed in January 2024, but they came back on January 1, 2026. This is one of the biggest policy changes for seniors and people with disabilities in years. If you are on a MAGI-based plan (most adults 19–64, children, and pregnant individuals), you are not affected by asset limits.
2026 Asset Limits Table
| Applicant Status | Asset Limit |
|---|---|
| Single individual | $130,000 |
| Each additional family member | +$65,000 (up to 10 people) |
| Married couple (both in nursing home) | $195,000 |
| Community spouse (non-applicant, nursing home) | Up to $162,660 |
What Assets Count?
Countable assets include:
- Bank accounts and cash savings
- A second home or extra property
- A second or additional vehicle
Exempt assets do NOT count:
- Your primary home (where you live)
- One vehicle
- Household furnishings and personal items
- Certain retirement accounts
Transition Rules for Current Members
If you already have Medi-Cal and the new asset limit now puts you over the threshold, you get a 90-day grace period to reduce your assets or provide documentation. The limits do not apply retroactively before January 1, 2026.
2026 Enrollment Freeze — Undocumented Adults
Starting January 1, 2026, Medi-Cal stopped accepting new enrollments from undocumented adults age 19 and older who are not pregnant. This affects people who previously qualified under California’s state-funded expansion programs. Existing enrollees who renew on time can keep their coverage.
Who Is Affected
- Adults age 19 and older without legal immigration status
- Those not currently enrolled in full-scope Medi-Cal
- Individuals who met all prior income and residency rules but are newly applying
Who Is NOT Affected
- Children ages 0–18 (all immigration statuses covered)
- Pregnant individuals (through pregnancy and 12 months postpartum)
- Former foster youth under age 26
- Adults already enrolled who renew without a gap
Restricted-Scope Medi-Cal
Adults who no longer qualify for full-scope coverage may still receive restricted-scope Medi-Cal, which covers emergency care, pregnancy care, and nursing home or long-term care services.
Dental Coverage Change — July 1, 2026
Starting July 1, 2026, adults affected by the enrollment freeze will also lose full dental coverage. Emergency dental care remains available for all. Full dental continues for pregnant individuals and former foster youth under 26.
What Does Medi-Cal Cover?
Medi-Cal covers a wide range of health services. Most members are enrolled in a managed care plan, which coordinates all their care.
To understand how Medi-Cal pays providers, you can review the Medicaid Fee Schedule 2026 for detailed reimbursement information.
Core Benefits
- Doctor visits and preventive care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Emergency room care
- Mental health and substance use treatment
- Prescription drugs
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Vision care (eye exams and glasses for children)
- Dental care (full-scope for most members)
- Family planning services
- Home health and personal care services
- Long-term care and nursing home care
Managed Care Plans in LA County (2026)
Los Angeles County uses the Two-Plan Model. You must choose a managed care plan within 30 days of qualifying. If you do not pick one, a plan is assigned to you automatically.
| Plan | Notes |
|---|---|
| L.A. Care Health Plan | Primary plan in LA County |
| Health Net Community Solutions | Includes medical and dental |
| Anthem Blue Cross | Sub-contracted under L.A. Care |
| Blue Shield Promise | Sub-contracted under L.A. Care |
| Molina Healthcare | Sub-contracted under Health Net |
| Kaiser Permanente | Available in LA County |
How to Apply for Medi-Cal in Los Angeles County
You can apply for Medi-Cal at any time. There is no open enrollment period — you can apply year-round. The process is simple and available in multiple languages.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Gather your documents — You will need proof of income, ID, and residency. Social Security numbers are needed for those who have them.
- Choose your application method — Online, by phone, in person, or by mail.
- Submit your application — LA County DPSS reviews your case and may contact you for more information.
- Receive your eligibility decision — Most decisions come within 45 days (or 90 days if a disability review is needed).
- Choose a managed care plan — Pick from the LA County plans listed above within 30 days.
- Get your Medi-Cal card — Coverage usually starts on the first day of the month you applied.
How to Apply
- Online: BenefitsCal.com or CoveredCA.com
- By phone: LA County DPSS Health Care line: 1-866-613-3777 (Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–5:00 PM)
- In person: Visit any LA County DPSS district office
- By mail: Download a paper application from DHCS and mail it to your county office
- ADA accommodations: Call the ADA Hotline at (844) 586-5550
What Happens After You Apply?
Once you submit your application, LA County DPSS begins the eligibility review process. Most decisions are made within 45 days. If your application involves a disability determination, it may take up to 90 days.
What to Expect
- You may receive a phone call or letter asking for more documents
- If approved, you will get a letter with your coverage start date
- You will be asked to choose a Medi-Cal managed care plan
- Your Medi-Cal card or enrollment confirmation will arrive by mail
- Coverage typically starts on the first of the month you applied
Renewals
Medi-Cal must be renewed every 12 months. Starting January 1, 2027, some adults will move to semi-annual (every 6 months) renewals. Watch for renewal notices from DPSS and respond on time to avoid a gap in coverage.
Upcoming Changes to Medi-Cal — 2026 and Beyond
Several new federal and state rules will affect Medi-Cal in the coming years. If you are currently enrolled, stay informed so your coverage is not interrupted.
Key Upcoming Changes
| Date | Change |
|---|---|
| October 1, 2026 | Federal law narrows eligibility for certain immigration statuses |
| January 1, 2027 | Work requirement: 80 hours/month for ACA expansion adults |
| January 1, 2027 | Semi-annual renewals begin for some adults |
| July 1, 2027 | ~$30/month premiums for some adults affected by immigration freeze |
| October 1, 2028 | Copayments for adults 19–64 with income above $15,560/year |
Work requirement exemptions include: parents of children under 13, pregnant or postpartum individuals, people with disabilities, and those recently released from incarceration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Medi-Cal income limits in Los Angeles County for 2026?
A: For most adults ages 19–64, the income limit is 138% of the Federal Poverty Level — about $1,836/month for a single person or $3,795/month for a family of four. Children can qualify up to 266% FPL and pregnant individuals up to 213% FPL. These limits apply countywide in Los Angeles.
Q: Does Medi-Cal cover dental in Los Angeles County in 2026?
A: Yes, full dental coverage is included for most Medi-Cal members. Starting July 1, 2026, adults affected by the immigration enrollment freeze will lose full dental but retain emergency dental. Children, pregnant individuals, and former foster youth under 26 keep full dental coverage.
Q: How long does Medi-Cal take to approve in Los Angeles County?
A: Most applications are approved within 45 days. If your case involves a disability determination, it can take up to 90 days. You may receive a request for additional documents during this time. Apply early to avoid delays.
Q: Can undocumented adults still get Medi-Cal in 2026?
A: New undocumented adults age 19 and older cannot enroll in full-scope Medi-Cal starting January 1, 2026. However, emergency care, pregnancy care, and long-term care remain available through restricted-scope Medi-Cal. Children and pregnant individuals of all immigration statuses can still enroll in full-scope coverage.
Q: Are there asset limits for Medi-Cal in 2026?
A: Yes, asset limits returned on January 1, 2026 — but only for non-MAGI programs covering seniors and people with disabilities. The limit is $130,000 for a single person. Most working-age adults (19–64), children, and pregnant individuals are NOT subject to any asset test.
Q: What managed care plans are available in Los Angeles County?
A: The main plans are L.A. Care Health Plan and Health Net Community Solutions under the Two-Plan Model. Sub-contracted options include Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield Promise, Molina Healthcare, and Kaiser Permanente. You must choose a plan within 30 days of approval, or one will be assigned.
Sources & Disclaimer
Official Sources
- California DHCS — 2026 FPL Calculation Chart: https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/medi-cal/eligibility/letters/Pages/ACWDL2601-Enclosure1.aspx
- California DHCS — Medi-Cal Changes 2026–2028: https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Medi-Cal/Pages/changes.aspx
- LA County DPSS — Health Care Programs: https://dpss.lacounty.gov/en/health.html
- California DHCS — Asset Limits FAQs: https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Medi-Cal/Pages/Help/asset-limits-faqs.aspx
- Medicaid.gov — Eligibility: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/eligibility/index.html
Last Updated: April 2026
Disclaimer: CheckMedicaid.com is not affiliated with any government agency. This content is for educational purposes only. For official eligibility determinations, contact the LA County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) at 1-866-613-3777 or visit Medicaid.gov.
