A guide for seniors, families & caregivers — Updated 2026
California’s Medicaid program — known as Medi-Cal — is one of the most comprehensive state Medicaid programs in the country. For seniors aged 65 and older, Medi-Cal can cover everything from doctor visits and hospital stays to long-term care in a nursing facility. If you or a loved one is trying to understand whether you qualify and how to get started, this guide walks you through the essentials.
What Is Medi-Cal for Seniors?
Medi-Cal is California’s name for the federal Medicaid program. For seniors, it works alongside Medicare in many cases — picking up costs that Medicare doesn’t cover, such as long-term care, dental, and vision services. Seniors who qualify for both Medicare and Medi-Cal are called dual eligibles, and they often pay very little out of pocket for health care.
Get the Complete Medicaid Guide for Seniors →
Who Is Eligible? Basic Requirements
To qualify for Medi-Cal as a senior, you generally must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be age 65 or older (or be blind or have a qualifying disability)
- Be a U.S. citizen or a qualifying immigration status
- Be a California resident
- Meet income and asset limits (see tables below)
2026 Medi-Cal Income Limits for Seniors
California uses the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and program-specific income thresholds to determine eligibility. For seniors applying under the aged, blind, and disabled (ABD) category, the income limits are based on the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) standard. As of 2026:
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | ~$1,732 | ~$20,784 |
| 2 People (couple) | ~$2,351 | ~$28,212 |
Note: These figures are approximate and based on 2026 SSI-linked Medi-Cal thresholds. Some income, such as a portion of earned income, may not be counted. Always verify current limits with your local county social services office.
Asset Limits for Medi-Cal Seniors
California has been phasing out its asset test for most Medi-Cal enrollees. As of January 2024, there is no longer an asset limit for most Medi-Cal programs, including those for seniors. This is a major change — seniors no longer need to “spend down” savings to qualify for basic Medi-Cal coverage.
However, long-term care Medi-Cal (for nursing home coverage) still involves estate recovery rules. California may seek reimbursement from a recipient’s estate after death for long-term care costs paid by Medi-Cal.
What Does Medi-Cal Cover for Seniors?
- Doctor visits, specialist care, and preventive services
- Hospital inpatient and outpatient care
- Prescription drugs
- Dental and vision care
- Nursing facility care (for those who meet level-of-care criteria)
- In-home supportive services (IHSS) — a critical program for seniors who need help at home
- Mental health and substance use services
How to Apply for Medi-Cal as a Senior
- Gather your documents: You’ll need proof of age, identity, California residency, income (Social Security award letters, pension statements), and immigration status if applicable.
- Apply online at Covered California or through your county’s social services agency at BenefitsCal.com.
- Apply by phone by calling your county’s Department of Social Services or the Medi-Cal helpline at 1-800-541-5555.
- Apply in person at your local county social services office — useful if you need help completing the application.
- Wait for a determination: Most applications are processed within 45 days. Disability-based applications may take up to 90 days.
Medi-Cal and Medicare: How They Work Together
Many California seniors qualify for both programs. If you have Medicare, Medi-Cal can serve as your secondary insurance, covering Medicare premiums, copays, and deductibles. You may also qualify for a Medicare Savings Program, which helps pay your Medicare Part B premium — currently $
Last Updated on 10 August 2026 by ingmin