Can you work and still get Medi-Cal?

Asked by: Dr. Arthur Nienow  |  Last update: March 31, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (61 votes)

In fact, many people are employed and stay on Medi-Cal. Eligibility for the program is based on income and other variables. When navigating your health care options as your income increases, it can help to understand what determines Medi-Cal eligibility, and how to report a change in income.

Will I lose my Medi-Cal if I get a job?

Yes you have to report the change in income and access to employer insurance but you'll continue to be eligible for Medi-cal for the rest of the Public Health Emergency. Medi Cal will tell you if you're even required to enroll in the job's health insurance.

Can I have both Medi-Cal and employer insurance?

Note: You can choose to get Medi-Cal even if you have employer-sponsored coverage. If you have both at the same time, Medi-Cal may decide it is cost-effective for them to pay your portion of your employer-sponsored health insurance's premium.

What will disqualify you from Medi-Cal?

The Medi-Cal program determines eligibility for benefits on a “means” tested basis. If a Medi-Cal applicant's property/assets are over the Medi-Cal property limit, the applicant will not be eligible for Medi-Cal unless they lower their property/assets according to the program rules.

What are the new rules for Medi-Cal 2024?

Basic Information. Beginning January 1, 2024, a new law in California will allow adults ages 26 through 49 to qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal, regardless of immigration status. All other Medi-Cal eligibility rules, including income limits, will still apply.

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How does Medi-Cal verify income?

Earned Income Most recent pay stub, written statement from employer, completed employer's income verification letter. All verification must show gross income, pay period, date received and hours worked.

Can you have Medi-Cal and regular insurance?

Even if you have other health coverage such as health insurance from your work, you may still qualify for Medi-Cal. If you qualify, Medi-Cal will cover allowable costs not paid by your primary insurance. Under federal law, Medi-Cal beneficiaries' private health insurance must be billed first before billing Medi-Cal.

Will I lose my Medicaid if I get Medicare?

People who have both Medicare and full Medicaid coverage are “dually eligible.” Medicare pays first when you're a dual eligible and you get Medicare-covered services. Medicaid pays last, after Medicare and any other health insurance you have.

Why is my Medi-Cal discontinued?

Your Medi-Cal coverage will end if you don't turn in your renewal form or you are missing proof of things like income that the county asked you to send. Your local Medi-Cal office will mail you a letter (Notice of Action) to let you know if you didn't turn in your renewal form or are missing information.

What is the disadvantage of Medi-Cal?

The perception that Medi-Cal offered poorer coverage or less respectful treatment than other types of insurance. Concerns among noncitizen respondents that applying for Medi-Cal might affect their immigration status.

Can I still have Medi-Cal if I work?

Medi-Cal Coverage and Employment. A number of factors go into qualifying for Medi-Cal — but having a job isn't one of them. In fact, many people are employed and stay on Medi-Cal. Eligibility for the program is based on income and other variables.

How much money can I have in my bank account if I have Medi-Cal?

For new Medi-Cal applications only, current asset limits are $130,000 for one person and $65,000 for each additional household member, up to 10. Starting on January 1, 2024, Medi-Cal applications will no longer ask for asset information. » I was not eligible in the past.

What happens if my income increases while on Medi-Cal?

You will not lose your Medi-Cal coverage while the continuous coverage requirement is in place if your income goes up or your household changes.

What happens if you make too much money while on Medicaid?

If you're over the Medicaid income limit, some states let you spend down extra income or place it in a trust to help you qualify for Medicaid. If you receive long-term care but your spouse doesn't, Medicaid will allow your spouse to keep enough income to avoid living in poverty.

What happens to my Medi-Cal when I turn 65?

If you are aged (65+) or disabled and are not eligible for the SSI program, you may be able to get Medi-Cal through the Aged & Disabled Federal Poverty Level (A&D FPL) program. To qualify, you must: Be aged (65+) or disabled (meet Social Security's definition of disability, even if your disability is blindness).

Is it better to be on Medicare or Medicaid?

While Medicare is the primary payer for medical needs, Medicaid can cover costs that Medicare coverage does not. When you visit a provider that takes both Medicare and Medicaid, Medicare pays first for the cost of your care. Medicaid pays second, covering copays and other costs not covered.

How much can you make and stay on Medi-Cal?

Most single individuals will qualify for Medi-Cal if there income is under $1,676 per month. Most couples will qualify if their income is under $2,267 per month. If you have disabilities, your income can be slightly higher. You can qualify for Medi-Cal even if you have assets.

Why does no one accept Medi-Cal?

The most frequent reasons physicians limit Medi-Cal patients in their practices are payment rates and administrative hassles.

Do I have to pay back Medi-Cal?

The Medi-Cal program must seek repayment from the estates of certain deceased Medi-Cal beneficiaries. Repayment only applies to benefits received by these beneficiaries on or after their 55th birthday and those who owned assets at the time of death.

What if my income is too high for Medi-Cal?

If your income is too high for Medi-Cal, you may qualify to purchase health insurance through Covered California. Covered California offers “premium assistance.” It helps lower the cost of health care for individuals and families who enroll in a Covered California health plan and meet income rules.

What is the new law for Medi-Cal in 2024?

Beginning January 1, 2024, a new law in California will provide adults 26 through 49 years of age access to full scope Medi-Cal services and immigration status does not matter. All other Medi-Cal eligibility rules, including income limits, will still apply.

Is a check considered proof of income?

Regular paychecks or direct deposit statements serve as proof of income. Property managers often require these to verify consistent earnings.