What Is Medi-Cal for Seniors in California?
Medi-Cal provides healthcare coverage for eligible California seniors. Understanding Medi-Cal helps older adults access this important program and its benefits.
What Medi-Cal Is
Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program. It provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible residents. For seniors, Medi-Cal can cover services Medicare does not.
Medi-Cal can work with Medicare. Many seniors have both Medicare and Medi-Cal, called dual eligibility. Medi-Cal pays Medicare premiums and cost-sharing for dual-eligible beneficiaries.
Eligibility for Seniors
Age 65 and older qualifies for aged Medi-Cal programs. Income and asset limits determine eligibility. Different programs have different limits.
Income limits for aged Medi-Cal are based on federal poverty levels. As of recent guidelines, income limits for an individual are around $1,600 per month, though limits change annually and vary by program.
Asset limits apply to some Medi-Cal programs. Countable assets include bank accounts, investments, and additional property. The home, one vehicle, and certain other assets are typically exempt.
Medi-Cal expansion has increased eligibility. California has expanded Medi-Cal beyond traditional limits. More seniors may qualify than in the past.
What Medi-Cal Covers
Long-term care services are a major Medi-Cal benefit. Nursing home care, which Medicare does not cover long-term, is covered by Medi-Cal for eligible individuals.
In-Home Supportive Services provides personal care at home. IHSS helps seniors remain home rather than entering nursing facilities. Eligible individuals receive hours of caregiver assistance.
Dental care is covered. Medi-Cal Dental, formerly Denti-Cal, provides dental services. This fills a significant gap since Medicare does not cover dental.
Vision care is covered. Eye exams and glasses are Medi-Cal benefits not covered by basic Medicare.
Hearing aids may be covered. Coverage for hearing services exceeds what Medicare provides.
Medicare cost-sharing is paid for dual-eligible beneficiaries. Medi-Cal pays Medicare Part B premiums, deductibles, and copays for those with both programs.
Applying for Medi-Cal
Applications can be submitted online through Covered California, by mail, or in person at county social services offices. The county of residence processes applications.
Documentation requirements include proof of identity, residency, income, and assets. Gathering documents before applying speeds the process.
Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program, or HICAP, provides free help with applications. These counselors assist seniors in navigating Medi-Cal and Medicare.
Medi-Cal Planning
Asset planning may help qualify for Medi-Cal. Legal strategies can protect assets while achieving eligibility. Elder law attorneys specialize in Medi-Cal planning.
Look-back periods apply to asset transfers. Giving away assets to qualify for Medi-Cal can result in penalties. Professional guidance prevents costly mistakes.
Getting Medi-Cal Assistance
All Seniors Foundation helps seniors understand Medi-Cal. Accessing benefits you have earned improves care access. Contact us for Medi-Cal guidance and healthcare services.
