Important: The July 1, 2027 amount is the current published DHCS schedule. DHCS has also proposed additional changes to Medi-Cal asset limits that could affect implementation. This page will be updated if the official rules change.
What’s happening?
California reinstated asset testing for certain Medi-Cal programs beginning January 1, 2026.
Through June 30, 2027
$130,000
for one person
$65,000 for each additional person in the household, subject to the applicable household rules.
Beginning July 1, 2027
$21,000
for one person
$31,000 for two people, with additional amounts for additional household members according to DHCS rules.
Who may be affected?
According to California DHCS, the asset limits apply to people who:
- Are age 65 or older
- Have a disability
- Live in a nursing home
- Are in a family whose income is too high to qualify under federal tax-based Medi-Cal rules
Not every Medi-Cal beneficiary is necessarily subject to these asset rules.
What counts as an asset?
Countable assets can include things such as:
- Bank accounts
- Cash
- Second homes
- Additional vehicles
- Other financial resources
Some assets are excluded
DHCS currently identifies examples including:
- The home you live in
- One primary vehicle
- Household belongings
- Certain retirement funds when receiving regular payments
Asset rules can be complicated. Do not assume that an asset is exempt based solely on this summary. Your county Medi-Cal office makes the eligibility determination.
Why this matters
A lower asset limit means that some people who currently qualify under the $130,000 limit could have an eligibility issue if the lower limit takes effect and they have countable assets above the applicable limit.
Having more than the asset limit does not mean that every asset you own is automatically counted. Exemptions and program-specific rules matter.
What should you do now?
- 1
Find out which Medi-Cal eligibility category you are enrolled under.
Not everyone is subject to the same financial rules.
- 2
Learn which of your assets are actually countable.
Do not assume that your home, vehicle, retirement funds, investments, or other property are treated the same way.
- 3
Keep records.
Maintain statements and documentation showing your assets and financial transactions.
- 4
Do not give away or transfer assets simply because you saw this alert.
Asset transfers can have consequences, particularly for people who may need long-term-care Medi-Cal.
- 5
Check official information before making financial decisions.
Review the official DHCS information below and contact your county Medi-Cal office with questions about your individual situation.
Current status
- CURRENT RULE
January 1, 2026
California began counting assets again for certain Medi-Cal eligibility categories.
- CURRENT RULE
Through June 30, 2027
DHCS currently lists the asset limit as $130,000 for one person.
- SCHEDULED CHANGE
July 1, 2027
DHCS currently publishes a $21,000 limit for one person.
DHCS has also published a 2026 proposal concerning further reinstatement or alignment of Medi-Cal asset limits. This is a proposal, not final law.
Official sources
California Department of Health Care Services:
About this information
Senior Life Watchdog provides general public information and is not a government agency, law firm, financial advisory service, or healthcare provider. This information is intended to help readers understand changes and locate official resources. Rules can change and individual eligibility depends on your circumstances. Always verify important information with the appropriate government agency or qualified professional before making financial, legal, or healthcare decisions.
Last verified: September 23, 2026
We’ll update this page when official information changes.
VERIFY THE INFORMATION
- Source:
- California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)
- Official publication:
- Medi-Cal Asset Limit Frequently Asked Questions
- Last verified by Senior Life Watchdog:
KNOW SOMEONE WHO SHOULD SEE THIS?
If this information could help someone you know, share this alert with them.
GET THE WATCHDOG ALERT
Important changes. Scam warnings. Benefits updates. Only when something actually matters.
Your email address is used only for Senior Life Watchdog communications. We do not sell or share subscriber information.