Medi-Cal California: Eligibility & Application Guide

Medi-Cal is the name of California's Medicare program. Over 5 million people in California (16% of people in Caliornia) are already enrolled and get free or discounted health insurance for your family. Although there are strict eligibility requirements, it is very easy to apply for Medi-Cal and see if you are eligible because it is the social worker who determines your eligibility.

Things You'll Need

• Proof of income (paychecks, tax forms, etc.)

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Instructions

• 1

  Call or visit your local county social services agency. All applications for Medi-Cal are processed by social workers at the county level. Your assigned social worker will determine eligibility, which can be a very complex process for the social worker.

• 2

  Assemble paper proof of income and property eligibility for Medi-Cal. Some documentation that may be required by your social worker include tax returns and paystubs. As far as property, if you live in a house you own, it will not count against you in eligibility for Medi-Cal.

• 3

  If you are eligible for Medi-Cal, you will receive an enrollment packet to choose the Medi-Cal health plan you want to enroll in.

• 4

  Apply for Medicare. Many people who apply for Medi-Cal and get accepted are also eligible for Medicare. Eligibility for both gives you a "dual-eligible" status that gives you free health insurance with zero copays. You can get assistance from your county social worker in determining eligibility for Medicare as well as Medi-Cal.