California Medi-Cal Eligibility Calculator 2026
Instantly estimate your potential eligibility for California's Medi-Cal program based on 2026 income limits. This tool is for informational purposes only.
A comprehensive guide to eligibility, income limits, and program changes for California's Medicaid program.
Program Overview
California Medicaid (Medi-Cal) is a public health insurance program financed equally by the state and federal government. Administered by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), it serves as a vital safety net for millions of Californians.
2026 Annual Income Limits by Household Size
For most adults and children, eligibility is based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The 2026 FPL baseline is $15,960 for an individual.
| Household Size | Adult Limit (138% FPL) | Child Limit (266% FPL) | Working Disabled (250% FPL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $22,025 ($1,836/mo) | $42,454 | $39,900 |
| 2 People | $29,864 ($2,489/mo) | $57,563 | $54,100 |
| 3 People | $37,702 | $72,672 | $68,300 |
| 4 People | $45,540 ($3,795/mo) | $87,780 ($7,315/mo) | $82,500 |
| 5 People | $53,379 | $102,889 | $96,700 |
| 6 People | $61,217 | $117,998 | $110,900 |
| Each Add. Person | +$7,838 | +$15,109 | +$14,200 |
Note: In C-CHIP counties (Santa Clara, San Mateo, San Francisco), children may be eligible at higher thresholds. Monthly figures shown where commonly referenced by county offices.
⚠️ Critical 2026 Change: Asset Limits Reinstated
Effective January 1, 2026, California has reinstated asset limits for Non-MAGI Medi-Cal applicants (Aged 65+, Blind, and Disabled), reversing the asset elimination policy from previous years.
- Individual Limit: $130,000 in countable resources (cash, stocks, second properties)
- Couple Limit: $195,000
- Exemptions: Your primary home and one vehicle generally remain exempt
Note: MAGI-based Medi-Cal (standard adults & children) continues to have NO asset limits.
Immigration & Eligibility
Key Details:
- Enrollment Freeze: Undocumented adults aged 26–49 can no longer newly enroll in full-scope Medi-Cal.
- Restricted Scope: New applicants in this group are limited to emergency services only.
- Exempt Groups: Children (0–18), Young Adults (19–25), Adults 50+, and Pregnant individuals retain full access regardless of immigration status.
- Existing Members: Those already enrolled prior to the cutoff date typically retain coverage.
Covered Benefits
Medi-Cal provides comprehensive health coverage with little to no out-of-pocket costs.
- Doctor Visits & Specialists
- Hospitalization & ER
- Prescription Drugs
- Maternity & Newborn Care
- Mental Health Services
- Dental Care (Denti-Cal)
- Vision Services
- Transportation (Non-medical)
- In-Home Supportive Services
- Long-term Care
Mixed Status Households
It is common for members of the same family to qualify for different programs. Income limits differ significantly for adults vs. children.
Parents: Income exceeds the $45,540 adult limit → qualify for subsidized Covered California plans instead.
Children: Household income is below the $87,780 child limit → children DO qualify for Medi-Cal.
Covered California & Subsidy Cliff
If your income exceeds Medi-Cal limits, you are routed to Covered California for subsidized private insurance.
How to Apply
- Online: CoveredCA.com or BenefitsCal.com
- Phone: Call 1-800-300-1506
- In Person: Local county social services office
- Mail: Submit a Single Streamlined Application
Timeline: Approval usually takes up to 45 days. Do not assume you are ineligible based on estimates alone — deductions can lower your countable income.
Managed Care
90% of beneficiaries must enroll in a Managed Care Plan (MCP) to receive services.
- You have 30 days to choose a plan after approval.
- If you don't choose, you will be auto-enrolled.
- Select plans at Health Care Options.
Share of Cost (SOC)
If your income is too high, you may still qualify with a "Share of Cost" (like a monthly deductible).
Key Government Contacts
Denti-Cal
1-800-322-6384California Medi-Cal Eligibility FAQ (2026)
Who can get Medi-Cal in California for 2026?
Medi-Cal gives free or low-cost health coverage to low-income California residents. You qualify if your income is below the set limits and you live in California. Most adults, children, and pregnant women can get it if they meet the rules. For specific income limits by household size, check the California Medi-Cal income limits chart.
What are the income limits for California Medi-Cal in 2026?
If you're an adult (ages 19–64), you can get Medi-Cal if your yearly income is up to $22,025 for one person (about $1,836 per month), based on 138% of the 2026 Federal Poverty Level of $15,960. For a family of four, the adult limit is $45,540. For each additional person in the household, add about $7,838. The limits are higher for children and pregnant women. See the complete chart on the official Medi-Cal income limits page for the full breakdown.
Can undocumented immigrants get Medi-Cal in California?
It depends on age and enrollment timing. As of January 1, 2026, new enrollments for undocumented adults aged 26–49 in full-scope Medi-Cal are frozen; new applicants in this group are limited to emergency services only. However, income-eligible children (0–18), young adults (19–25), adults aged 50 and older, and pregnant individuals can still enroll in full-scope Medi-Cal regardless of immigration status. Those already enrolled before the cutoff date typically retain their coverage.
What are the Medi-Cal income rules for kids and pregnant women?
Children may qualify at household incomes up to 266% of the federal poverty level — for a family of four, that's $87,780 per year (about $7,315/month) in 2026. Pregnant women qualify at incomes up to approximately 213% of the poverty level. Check the income chart for exact thresholds by household size and program.
Do older adults and disabled people have different Medi-Cal rules?
Yes. Effective January 1, 2026, California has reinstated asset limits for Non-MAGI Medi-Cal — the program covering adults aged 65+, blind individuals, and people with disabilities. The individual asset limit is $130,000 and the couple limit is $195,000 in countable resources (such as cash, stocks, and second properties). Your primary home and one vehicle are generally exempt. Standard MAGI-based Medi-Cal for working-age adults and children still has no asset test.
How do I apply for Medi-Cal in California?
You can apply online at BenefitsCal.com or via Covered California, by mail, by phone at 1-800-300-1506, or in person at your county social services office. Be prepared to provide income, household information, and proof of California residency. Do not assume you are ineligible based on estimates alone — deductions can lower your countable income.
Will Medi-Cal cover me if I lose my job or income?
Yes. Medi-Cal eligibility is based on current income. If your income drops (for example you lose your job), you can apply and may become eligible quickly.
Do I have to pay monthly premiums for Medi-Cal?
Most people do not pay monthly premiums for Medi-Cal. A few programs or special coverage types may have small fees, but the majority of eligible families receive Medi-Cal without monthly premiums.
What if my income is too high for Medi-Cal?
If your income exceeds the Medi-Cal limits, you can get subsidized private insurance through Covered California. In 2026, the "subsidy cliff" remains removed — there is no hard income cutoff for financial help. Instead, you are capped at paying no more than roughly 8.5% of your income on premiums, even if you earn above 400% of the federal poverty level.