Why is a married case different?
These rules protect some resources for a spouse living in the community when the other spouse needs qualifying long-term care. DHCS says they can apply to married couples and registered domestic partners. Whether the applicant meets the program definitions matters.
What does the 2026 letter say?
DHCS's January 28, 2026, county letter sets the community-spouse resource allowance at $162,660 for cases newly determined under the spousal rules from January 1, 2026. It also describes a monthly income allowance. These are not a universal joint-asset ceiling and should not be added to a household figure without a case review.
What if the person already has Medi-Cal?
The same letter gives special instructions for 2026 annual renewals of cases that received spousal protection before January 1, 2026. In some circumstances the county reviews the institutionalized spouse's property and gives a transfer period described in its notice. The details depend on which spouse receives Medi-Cal and how the case was approved.
What should you ask the county?
Ask whether the case qualifies for spousal-impoverishment treatment, which spouse's property is being reviewed, and what date and notice control any next step. Bring the county's written notice to a qualified professional if you need advice about transferring or retitling property.
Sources checked
These agency pages were checked on September 19, 2026. Reopen them before making a time-sensitive decision.
Check the official guidance for your case
A state guide can explain the rule. The issuing agency can answer questions about the actual application, notice, or service.
Find your county Medi-Cal office ↗This page is general educational information. It cannot decide whether a person qualifies or replace advice about individual facts. Read the full notice.