There is an upcoming change to Medi-Cal just for California that will affect many older adults and people with disabilities starting in 2026.
Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program that provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families, including many seniors and people with disabilities. Starting January 1, 2026, Medi-Cal will once again consider your assets—things you own—when determining eligibility for certain programs, including those for older adults, people with disabilities, and those needing long-term care. This change will apply to new applications and for annual renewals for existing Medi-Cal recipients.
The asset limits will be set at $130,000 for an individual and $195,000 for a married couple. Some assets, like your primary home, one vehicle, and certain retirement accounts, will not count toward this limit.
*Let me give you an example. Suppose your parents own their home, have one car, and about $25,000 in a savings account. They also receive Social Security income of around $2,000 per month. Because their primary home and one vehicle generally do not count toward the Medi-Cal asset limit—unless the home has excess equity—and only the $25,000 in savings is counted, they are well below the $130,000 threshold for a single person or $195,000 for a married couple. In this case, they would still be asset-eligible for Medi-Cal.
It is important to note that certain VA benefits and protections are excluded from the asset test, which means some VA resources will not count as assets when determining Medi-Cal eligibility.
Ways & Wane supports clients by explaining these changes, helping with eligibility reviews, assisting with paperwork, and connecting you to resources to keep your benefits. If you or your family member will be affected by this asset limit change, reach out to us so we can guide you through the process.
I hope this has been helpful, and I hope you find joy in loving one another well!
