Medicaid Eligibility in California 2026: Income Limits, Requirements & How to Apply

Medicaid Expansion Status in California

California has fully expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, meaning adults earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level ($22,025/year for an individual) qualify for Medicaid coverage.

Who Qualifies for Medicaid in California?

Medicaid in California covers several distinct groups, each with different income and eligibility requirements. The major categories are: seniors (65+), people with disabilities, pregnant women, children, and low-income adults (if the state has expanded Medicaid).

Medicaid for Seniors (65+) in California

Seniors in California may qualify for Medicaid to cover nursing home care, home-based care, or to supplement Medicare coverage. The income limit for Regular Medicaid (Aged, Blind, and Disabled) in California is $1,836/month for a single person. For nursing home care, the limit is no set income limit, but nearly all income must go toward the cost of care.

Medicaid for People with Disabilities in California

People with disabilities who receive SSDI or SSI may qualify for Medicaid in California. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid in most states. SSDI recipients must wait 24 months for Medicare, during which Medicaid may provide coverage if income is below $1,836/month.

How to Apply for Medicaid in California

You can apply for Medicaid in California through the following channels:

• Online: Through California’s state Medicaid portal or HealthCare.gov
• Phone: Call California’s Medicaid office directly
• In person: Visit your local Department of Social Services or Medicaid office
• Mail: Download and mail a paper application

Medicaid and Medicare Dual Eligibility in California

Individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are called “dual eligibles.” In California, dual eligible individuals receive comprehensive coverage: Medicare covers most medical services, while Medicaid covers Medicare premiums, deductibles, copays, and additional services like long-term care. There are approximately 1,224,000 dual-eligible individuals in California.

Medicaid Asset Limits in California

In addition to income limits, Medicaid for long-term care in California has asset limits. For a single applicant, the countable asset limit is typically $2,000. For a married couple where one spouse needs nursing home care, the community spouse may keep up to $157,920 in countable assets (the Community Spouse Resource Allowance, or CSRA, for 2026). The primary home, one vehicle, personal belongings, and certain other assets are typically exempt.