What Is Medi-Cal?
Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program, providing health coverage to low-income residents. For Medicare beneficiaries, Medi-Cal can be a powerful supplement that covers services Medicare doesn’t and helps with Medicare cost-sharing.
Benefits of Dual Eligibility
If you qualify for both Medicare and Medi-Cal, you receive:
- Reduced costs: Medi-Cal may pay your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copays
- Dental coverage: Comprehensive dental through Denti-Cal
- Vision coverage: Eye exams and glasses
- Long-term care: Nursing home care and In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)
- Transportation: Non-emergency medical transportation
- Automatic Extra Help: Significant savings on Part D prescription drug costs
Income Limits for Medi-Cal (2026)
Medi-Cal eligibility for seniors and people with disabilities:
| Household Size | Approximate Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| Individual | ~$1,732/month |
| Couple | ~$2,351/month |
Income limits vary by program. Contact your county social services office for exact figures.
How to Apply for Medi-Cal
- Online at CoveredCA.com
- At your county Department of Social Services
- By phone: 1-800-541-5555
- Through a HICAP counselor who can help with the application
Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plans
California offers D-SNP Medicare Advantage plans designed for dual-eligible beneficiaries. These plans coordinate your Medicare and Medi-Cal benefits in one plan. See D-SNPs in your county →
Can I have both Medicare and Medi-Cal?
Yes. Over 1.5 million Californians are dual eligible for both programs. Medicare serves as your primary coverage, and Medi-Cal fills in the gaps.
Does Medi-Cal pay my Medicare premium?
It depends on the program. QMB covers Part A and Part B premiums. SLMB and QI cover Part B premiums. Full Medi-Cal may also cover premiums.
What is a D-SNP?
A Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan is a Medicare Advantage plan specifically designed for people with both Medicare and Medi-Cal. It coordinates benefits from both programs.