Will I lose my medical if I get a job?

Asked by: Mac Wunsch  |  Last update: October 23, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (34 votes)

Starting a job marks a new chapter — and if you have health insurance through Medi-Cal, you might be worried about losing your eligibility. Rest assured, you have options. For starters, eligibility for Medi-Cal isn't based on employment status. It depends on factors like income, age, and disability status.

What happens to 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.

What disqualifies you from Medi-Cal?

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). Have countable income less than 250% of the federal poverty level (in 2024, this equates to $3,158/mo.

How much can you make before you lose 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.

What is the income limit for Medi-Cal 2024-2023?

For 2024, the income limits are generally expressed as a percentage of the FPL and vary by the individual's category. For example, an individual may qualify for Medi-Cal if their yearly income is at or below $20,783. A couple may qualify for Medi-Cal if their annual income is at or below $28,208.

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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.

Do you have to pay back Medicaid if you get a job?

No. Unlike employer-sponsored plans, Medicaid is not tied to your job. You'll still have it even if you lose your job because of COVID-19 or for any other reason. If you find a job, your new financial situation will determine whether you qualify for Medicaid.

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.

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.

How often does Medicaid check your income?

Yes, income and assets have to be verified again for Medicaid Redetermination. After initial acceptance into the Medicaid program, redetermination is generally every 12 months. The redetermination process is meant to ensure the senior Medicaid beneficiary still meets the eligibility criteria, such as income and assets.

How much money can you have in the bank if you 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.

When should I report my new job to Medi-Cal?

Make sure your contact information is up-to-date so you can receive important Medi-Cal information. If your income, address, or household situation changes at any time during the year, please report these changes within 10 days rather than waiting for the annual renewal process.

What happens if you win money while on Medicaid?

Winning the lottery generally doesn't require you to pay back Medicaid costs. However, it can affect your eligibility for Medicaid, as eligibility often depends on income levels, which vary by state. You might lose your benefits if your lottery winnings push your income above the Medicaid threshold.

What is the income limit for Medi-Cal?

You are 19-64 years old and your family's income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) ($21,597 for an individual; $44,367 for a family of four). You are a child 18 or younger and your family's income is at or below 266% of FPL ($85,519 per year for a family of four).

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

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.

What income do I report to Medi-Cal?

Income is considered when determining Medi-Cal eligibility. Income includes things such as, earnings from a job, unemployment benefits, disability benefits, self-employment income, retirement benefits, interest on assets, child or spousal support, and other means of income or support.

When to tell Medicaid I got a job?

You do not need to report or verify any income changes resulting from new employment until your renewal application. The increase in earnings only becomes relevant when Medicaid looks at eligibility again at renewal time.

Do I have to cancel Medicare if I get a job?

You are allowed to have both Medicare and employer coverage, and you can use them together. One will act as primary coverage and one will act as secondary. The only thing to keep in mind is that when you have Medicare and an employer plan, you cannot contribute to a health savings account (HSA) if it's offered.

How much can you make before losing Medicaid?

To qualify for free Medi-Cal coverage, you need to earn less than 138% of the poverty level, based on the number of people who live in your home. The income limits based on household size are: One person: $17,609. Two people: $23,792.

Do you have to pay back Medicaid when you get a job?

After you start working, your Medicaid coverage can continue, even if your earnings (alone or in combination with your other income) become too high to receive SSI.

What happens if I forgot to report an income change to Medi-Cal?

If you do not report changes to your personal information right away, and then receive Medi-Cal benefits that you do not qualify for, you may have to repay DHCS.

How long can you keep Medi-Cal?

Medi-Cal members must renew their coverage each year to keep their health care benefits.