09/03/2026
⚠️ IMPORTANT MEDI-CAL UPDATE FOR CALIFORNIA FAMILIES
Starting January 1, 2026, Medi-Cal brought back asset limits for certain programs affecting seniors, people with disabilities, and long-term-care applicants.
💰 Current Asset Limits through June 30, 2027:
• 1 person: $130,000
• Each additional eligible household member: +$65,000
Another major change: the 30-month look-back is back for certain long-term-care cases. Transfers made on or after January 1, 2026 — including gifting assets or selling below fair market value — may affect eligibility and could delay Medi-Cal long-term-care benefits.
🏠 Your primary residence and certain other assets may be exempt, depending on your circumstances.
And families should plan ahead: beginning July 1, 2027, California is scheduled to significantly reduce these asset limits.
What should families do now?
Review your assets, Living Trust, beneficiaries, property ownership, and long-term-care plan before a health crisis happens. Most importantly, don't rush to give away or transfer assets simply to qualify for Medi-Cal without first understanding the consequences.
Planning early can help protect two things that matter deeply: your loved one's care and the assets they spent a lifetime building.
For educational purposes only. Medi-Cal rules vary by program and individual circumstances. Consult the appropriate Medi-Cal office and qualified legal/estate-planning professionals for advice regarding your situation.
