What is the fastest way to get Medi-Cal?
Asked by: Mr. Angelo Trantow | Last update: August 18, 2025Score: 4.6/5 (49 votes)
How long does it take for Medi-Cal to get approved?
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 get my Medi-Cal card online?
You can request a benefit replacement card through BenefitsCal.com or through an automated system at 888-472-4463. Please allow about seven days to receive a new card in the mail.
How much is Medi-Cal per month?
If eligible, as of July 1, 2022 a California law allows you to receive full Medi-Cal coverage with $0 monthly premium. To qualify, you must: Meet the medical requirements of Social Security's definition of disability. Be working and earning income (this can be part-time work).
How do I get a temporary Medi-Cal?
Call 1 (800) 300-1506 or apply online at BenefitsCal.com. If the application is completed before the end of next month, your child will keep their temporary Medi- Cal until a final eligibility determination is made.
Medi-Cal Limit Changes in 2024: No More Asset Limit!
Can foreigners apply for Medi-Cal?
Immigration Status Doesn't Matter
Since January 1, 2024, more people are eligible for full Medi-Cal benefits. Applying for or using Medi-Cal will not affect your immigration status. As always, everyone is welcome to apply.
Can I apply for Medi-Cal on the phone?
You can apply for Medi-Cal at any time of the year by mail, phone, fax, or email. You can also apply online or in person.
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.
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.
Who pays for Medi-Cal?
Medi-Cal, like all Medicaid programs, is financed using federal and state dollars. This section discusses how the federal government pays, through the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP), and what California pays for with state dollars.
How do I check Medi-Cal eligibility?
Who is eligible? Qualify for Medi-Cal if your income is up to 138 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for adults, and up to 266 percent FPL for children. Check Shop and Compare to see if you qualify. Learn more on the Department of Health Care Services website.
What does Medi-Cal not cover?
Restricted scope Medi-Cal covers limited services. It does not cover medicine or primary care. If you have pregnancy-related limited scope Medi-Cal, you will have the full scope of Medi-Cal benefits, if the service is medically necessary.
Can I print a temporary Medi-Cal card?
Your BIC card is the Medi-Cal Benefits Card sent to you by the State of California. You should always carry all health cards with you. You may print a temporary ID card at L.A. Care Connect.
How long can I stay on Medi-Cal?
Medi-Cal members must renew their coverage each year to keep their health care benefits.
What happens if you go to the hospital without ID?
It is difficult and dangerous for a doctor to treat you without risking your life and the medical license of the treating physician if the doctor does not know who you are. The more seriously you are injured, the more serious the risks are to your health and safety.
Which Medi-Cal plan is best?
OAKLAND, Calif., Jan. 19, 2023 – Kaiser Permanente Northern California's Medi-Cal health plan is the highest rated in the state for quality care, according to a December 2022 report from the state's Department of Health Care Services (DHCS).
How much money can I make and keep 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.
Can hospitals check your bank account?
Healthcare institutions verify bank statements to ensure financial accuracy. They check if patients qualify for programs or can pay for treatment. By reviewing these statements, they confirm income sources and check financial stability.
What is the maximum amount of money you can have in a bank account?
Generally, there's no checking account maximum amount you can have. There is, however, a limit on how much of your checking account balance is covered by the FDIC (typically $250,000 per depositor, per account ownership type, per financial institution), though some banks have programs with higher limits.
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.
How long do you lose Medicaid if you leave the country?
Medicaid provides no option for coverage outside of the United States. If you are covered by Medicaid, you should be aware that coverage can be suspended if you remain outside of the country for more than 30 days. You would have to jump through hoops in order to regain this coverage.
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 is the easiest way to apply for Medi-Cal?
You can apply for Medi-Cal online at BenefitsCal.com. This is often the quickest and easiest way to apply for most benefits. Our staff is also available to serve you online, by phone, email, fax, drop-off/mail-in services, and in person.
How much does Medi-Cal cost per month?
Learn more. How much does Medi-Cal cost? Effective July 1, 2022, all monthly premiums were reduced to $0. In general, individuals in Medi-Cal will get the same health benefits available through Covered California at a lower or no cost.
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.