Editing How to Apply for Medi Cal (section)

== Eligibility Requirements ==
Medi-Cal provides free or low-cost health coverage to California residents who meet certain income and category requirements. '''Income:''' Eligibility is primarily based on household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For example, a single adult with annual income up to about '''$20,783''' (approximately 138% of FPL) may qualify, with higher cutoffs for larger families (around $28,200 for a two-person household). '''Higher thresholds for certain groups:''' Pregnant women, children, and disabled individuals are allowed higher income limits and are encouraged to apply even if their earnings are above the standard cutoff. In fact, children and youth up to 21, pregnant individuals, and people with disabilities often qualify at income levels above 138% FPL. '''Categorical eligibility:''' You can also qualify based on life circumstances. Medi-Cal covers adults '''19–64''' who meet income criteria, and '''also''' those who are '''65 or older''', '''blind or disabled''', '''children under 21''', '''pregnant''', or residing in a nursing or care home. Being in certain programs automatically makes you eligible as well – for instance, if you receive '''SSI/SSP (Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment)''', '''CalWORKs''' (cash aid), '''CalFresh''' (food assistance), or are in foster care or adoption assistance, you are automatically eligible for Medi-Cal coverage. There is '''no asset/resource test for most applicants''' (income-based Medi-Cal), but seniors and disabled applicants may have resource limits (e.g. savings) – these rules have been largely eased in recent years, so don’t assume you’re ineligible without checking. Finally, you '''must be a California resident''' to get Medi-Cal, but you do '''not''' need to provide a separate proof of residency document; you simply give the address where you live/receive mail and attest you reside in state. U.S. citizens and many lawful immigrants qualify for full Medi-Cal; undocumented individuals may qualify for limited-scope Medi-Cal (emergency or pregnancy-related services), though California has expanded full coverage to all income-eligible persons up to age 26 and 50+ regardless of immigration status. In short, if you have low or moderate income or meet any of the criteria above, you should consider applying for Medi-Cal.