Medi-Cal helps millions of Californians get health care.
It’s a big program that can seem complicated.
But signing up doesn’t have to be hard.
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You can apply for Medi-Cal online, by mail, or in person. The easiest way is often to use the internet.
You can visit CoveredCA.com or your county’s benefits website.
These sites let you fill out forms from home.
Not sure if you qualify? Don’t worry.
The application will tell you.
It checks your income and other factors.
If you meet the rules, you can get free or low-cost health care.
This can include doctor visits, hospital stays, and medicine.
Key Takeaways
- Medi-Cal offers free or low-cost health coverage to eligible Californians
- People can apply online, by mail, or in person at their local county office
- The application process checks eligibility and tells applicants if they qualify
Eligibility for Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal provides health coverage to many low-income Californians.
The program looks at a person’s income and situation to decide if they qualify.
Let’s explore how to figure out if someone can get Medi-Cal.
Determining Your Eligibility
To get Medi-Cal, a person needs to live in California.
They also must meet income rules.
Some groups can get Medi-Cal more easily.
These include:
- Kids under 21
- Pregnant women
- People 65 or older
- People who are blind or disabled
- Parents or caregivers of kids
Someone might also qualify if they live in a nursing home or have refugee status.
Even if a person doesn’t fit these groups, they may still be able to get Medi-Cal based on their income.
Income and Poverty Guidelines
Medi-Cal uses the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to check if someone’s income qualifies.
The FPL changes based on family size.
For most Medi-Cal programs, a person’s income must be at or below 138% of the FPL.
Here’s a simple guide:
- 1 person: about $18,755 per year
- Family of 4: about $38,295 per year
These numbers can change each year.
Some Medi-Cal programs have different income rules.
Pregnant women and kids might qualify with higher incomes.
It’s smart to apply for Medi-Cal even if someone’s not sure they qualify.
The rules can be tricky, and there are experts who can help figure it out.
Signing Up for Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal offers free or low-cost health coverage to eligible Californians.
The sign-up process involves applying, providing documents, and choosing a health plan.
Application Process
People can apply for Medi-Cal online through Covered California’s website.
This single application checks eligibility for both Medi-Cal and Covered California plans.
Folks can also apply:
- By phone: Call Covered California at (800) 300-1506
- In person: Visit a local county human services agency
- With help: Use a certified enroller for free assistance
The online application is often quickest.
It asks about income, household size, and other details to determine eligibility.
Required Documentation
When signing up, applicants need to provide proof of:
- Identity (driver’s license or passport)
- California residency (utility bill or lease agreement)
- Income (pay stubs or tax returns)
- Citizenship or immigration status
It’s smart to gather these documents before starting the application.
This speeds up the process and helps avoid delays.
Choosing a Health Plan
After approval, most Medi-Cal members pick a managed care plan.
These plans work with specific doctors and hospitals.
Steps to choose a plan:
- Review available options in your county
- Check if preferred doctors are in-network
- Compare extra benefits each plan offers
CalOptima is an example of a Medi-Cal health plan in Orange County.
They offer help with enrollment and finding providers.
If someone doesn’t choose a plan, Medi-Cal assigns one.
But it’s better to pick a plan that fits personal needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Medi-Cal offers health coverage to many Californians.
Here are some common questions about applying for and getting Medi-Cal benefits.
How do I get started with a Medi-Cal application?
To start a Medi-Cal application, you can visit the Covered California website.
They offer an online application process.
You can also go to your local county office or call the Medi-Cal phone line at 800-541-5555.
What’s the quickest method to enroll in Medi-Cal?
The fastest way to apply for Medi-Cal is usually online through the Covered California website.
It allows you to fill out and submit your application right away.
What paperwork should I have ready when applying for Medi-Cal?
When applying for Medi-Cal, it’s good to have proof of income, like pay stubs or tax returns.
You’ll also need identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
Proof of California residency, like utility bills, is helpful too.
Can I apply for Medi-Cal at any time, or are there specific enrollment periods?
You can apply for Medi-Cal at any time of the year.
There are no special enrollment periods.
If you qualify, your coverage can start right away.
What steps should I take to apply for Medi-Cal by phone?
To apply for Medi-Cal by phone, call 800-541-5555.
The call center is open Monday to Friday during business hours.
Have your personal and income information ready when you call.
Who’s eligible for Medi-Cal and what are the income requirements?
Medi-Cal is for California residents who meet income requirements.
Adults can qualify if their income is up to 138 percent of the Federal Poverty Level.
For children, the limit is higher at 266 percent.
Pregnant women and people with disabilities may have different income limits.