How long does it take to get approved for Medi-Cal?

Asked by: Ms. Lyda Wolf DVM  |  Last update: February 11, 2022
Score: 4.8/5 (64 votes)

The process for verifying your Medi-Cal eligibility, from the time your completed application is received to when you receive your Benefits Identification Card (BIC), normally takes 45 days.

How do I find out if my Medi-Cal is approved?

Call Medi-Cal Directly

You can also check on your Medi-Cal status by calling the Medi-Cal hotline at (800) 541-5555. If you're outside of California, call (916) 636-1980.

Is Medi-Cal effective immediately?

Once your Medi-Cal eligibility is confirmed, the health coverage is effective beginning the first day of the month when you applied. If you would like more information or to check the status of your application, please contact your county human services agency.

How long does it take to apply for Medi-Cal online?

Online: It takes about 30 minutes to sign up for Medi-Cal online through Covered California. You can also get a quote through our website. In person: California has hundreds of Medi-Cal enrollment centers and thousands of certified enrollers ready to help you apply for Medicaid.

Does Medi-Cal check your bank account?

Yes. Asset tests are a part of Medicaid eligibility requirements. Medi-Cal is the State of California's Medicaid program. Bank accounts are one of the easier tests for the government to make.

How do I qualify for Medi-Cal in California?

45 related questions found

How do I switch to straight Medi-Cal?

To change your medical plan, call Health Care Options at 1-800-430-4263 (TTY 1-800-430-7077). Or you can complete a Medi-Cal Choice Form. You can find the form on the Download forms page. Mail the completed choice form.

How much is Medi-Cal per month?

How much are the premiums? The premiums for Medi-Cal for Families are $13 for each child and no more than $39 per family per month. What can I do if I disagree with paying a monthly premium? Monthly premiums must be paid for the child(ren) to remain eligible for this Medi-Cal program.

Do I have to pay back Medi-Cal?

The Medi-Cal program must seek repayment from the estates of certain deceased Medi-Cal members. Repayment only applies to benefits received by these members on or after their 55th birthday and who own assets at the time of death. If a deceased member owns nothing when they die, nothing will be owed.

What does straight Medi-Cal mean?

Medi-Cal is a program that pays medical expenses for people with low income. This includes people who are aged, disabled, or have high medical costs. ... You can think of Medi-Cal as a single program that you can qualify for in many different ways. The different ways to get Medi-Cal are called eligibility categories.

What is Medi Medi plan?

Medi-cal (Medical) is the California version of medicaid which is generally based on income and assets. It's possible for people to be eligible for both at the same time. Hence the term medi medi! The two plans will generally coordinate benefits or out of pocket costs together for people who are eligible.

How does Medi Medi work?

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps pay medical costs if you have limited income and resources and meet other requirements. Some people qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid and are called “dual eligibles.” This is also referred to as “Medi-Medi.”

Can you work and still get Medi-Cal?

If you get Medi-Cal coverage and then get a job, you have a couple of options for keeping your Medi-Cal benefits. If you got Supplemental Security Income (SSI) cash benefits before you got your job, Social Security's 1619(b) program lets you earn up to $54,082 annually and still keep Medi-Cal coverage at no cost.

Can I check my Medi-Cal eligibility online?

You can access your member services online through your plan's website and the Covered California website. Each service manages different aspects of your coverage. Also, your local county office will take care of specific parts of your Medi-Cal membership.

How do I know if my Medi-Cal is active online?

Another option is to use the MyBenefits CalWIN website to check your case status and benefits amount. The system also allows you to view any notices that were sent, such as requests for further documentation and whether you are eligible for additional assistance programs.

Who qualifies for emergency Medi-Cal?

If your family has income at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, you may be eligible for Income-Based Medi-Cal. If you are aged or disabled, you may be eligible for Aged & Disabled Federal Poverty Level Medi-Cal.

Can Medi-Cal take my house?

I. Can the State Take My Home If I Go on Medi-Cal? ... Your home can, however, be subject to an estate claim after your death. For example, your home may be an exempt asset while you are alive, and not counted for Medi-Cal eligibility purposes.

Does Medi-Cal include dental?

Medi-Cal offers comprehensive preventative and restorative dental benefits to both children and adults. You can find a Medi-Cal dentist on the ​ Medi-Cal Dental Provider Referral List, or by calling 1-800-322-6384.

Is Medi-Cal free in California?

Medi-Cal offers free or low-cost health coverage for California residents who meet eligibility requirements. Most applicants who apply through Covered California and enroll in Medi-Cal will receive care through managed health plans. Medi-Cal eligibility to include low-income adults.

What does Medi-Cal pay in California?

In fiscal year 2019–20, Medi-Cal brought in more than $65 billion in federal funds and accounted for nearly 16% of all state general fund spending. People with disabilities composed 9% of Medi-Cal enrollees, but accounted for 31% of spending.

How do I qualify for Medi-Cal in California?

You can also get Medi-Cal if you are:
  1. 65 or older.
  2. Blind.
  3. Disabled.
  4. Under 21.
  5. Pregnant.
  6. In a skilled nursing or intermediate care home.
  7. On refugee status for a limited time, depending how long you have been in the United States.
  8. A parent or caretaker relative of an age eligible child.

Is Medi-Cal Covered California?

Medi-Cal offers low-cost or free health coverage to eligible Californian residents with limited income. Covered California is the state's health insurance marketplace where Californians can shop for health plans and access financial assistance if they qualify for it.

How long does Medi-Cal last?

Medi-Cal members must renew their coverage each year to keep their health care benefits. Some members may be renewed automatically, but a packet will be mailed to members annually if the county is not able to verify all your information.

What are the two types of Medi-Cal?

This guidebook explains the two kinds of Medi-Cal: Regular Medi-Cal and Medi-Cal Health Plans.

Does Kaiser accept Medi-Cal?

Kaiser Permanente participates in Medi-Cal in many counties. This means that, if you are a current Kaiser Permanente member and your situation changes, you may be able to keep your same doctor and continue your care with Kaiser Permanente if you qualify for Medi-Cal.