Editing How to Apply for Medi Cal (section)

== Required Documentation ==
When applying, be prepared to provide information and paperwork to verify your eligibility. Medi-Cal will attempt to verify things electronically, but '''you may be asked for documents''' if needed. '''Common documents include:'''

* '''Proof of Identity and Social Security Number:''' A copy of a driver’s license or other photo ID, and your Social Security number (or card). Non-citizens should provide immigration documents or ID numbers, if available. (Immigration status is '''only used''' to determine what services you qualify for, not to disqualify you outright – many immigrants still get Medi-Cal.)
* '''Proof of Income:''' Recent pay stubs or a letter from your employer showing your earnings and hours. You might also use a recent tax return (Form 1040 or Schedule C if self-employed) to show annual income. If you receive benefits like Social Security, veterans’, unemployment, or disability payments, bring the award letters or benefit stubs. ''(If you have '''no income or only cash income''', you can “self-attest” and the county can guide you on how to declare that.)''
* '''Household Information:''' You will need to report who is in your household, such as family members and dependents. If someone files taxes, you may be asked about tax filing status and dependents (because Medi-Cal uses tax household rules for income-based cases). Having Social Security Numbers for each applicant helps speed up verification (those not applying or not eligible for an SSN don’t have to provide one).
* '''Proof of Expenses/Deductions (if applicable):''' If you pay for certain things that can affect eligibility (like child care, child support, alimony, or health insurance premiums out-of-pocket), you might need to show receipts or statements for those costs. These can sometimes increase your eligibility by lowering countable income.
* '''Proof of Assets (if 65+ or disabled):''' For applicants qualifying under age or disability rules (which have an asset limit), you may need to provide information on property or resources. This could include bank account statements, vehicle registrations, life insurance policies, etc., '''but only''' if you’re applying in a category that still has asset tests (most people under the expansion Medi-Cal don’t need to list assets).

'''Important:''' The county will let you know exactly what documents are required. If you lack a particular document, they will work with you on alternatives. Don’t delay applying just because you’re missing a piece of paperwork – you can submit the application first and provide additional proof later if asked.