California Medi-Cal asset limits in 2026

What is California's Medi-Cal asset limit?

DHCS says the asset test returned on January 1, 2026, for some Medi-Cal groups. These include people age 65 or older, people with a disability, and nursing-home residents. Some families whose income is too high for federal tax-based rules are also included. The $130,000 figure is for one person in an affected group through June 30, 2027.

DHCS says to add $65,000 for each additional person in the household count, up to 10 people. An adult child living in the home does not necessarily count. Ask the county which family members it includes before using a larger figure.

What does Medi-Cal count?

Bank accounts, cash, a second home, and a second vehicle are examples of property that may count. DHCS lists a main home, one vehicle, household items, and retirement funds that are paying out regularly as examples that do not count. The home has additional rules when someone is in a nursing facility.

What if your parent is married or in a nursing home?

A spouse living at home may have special protections when the other spouse needs long-term care. DHCS also has separate instructions for cases already receiving Medi-Cal before the asset test returned. A general household figure is not enough to decide a married nursing-home applicant's case.

What should you check before you act?

First, identify the Medi-Cal program and whether this asset test applies. Then list the property the county may count, the date of application or renewal, and whether a spouse remains at home. Your county Medi-Cal office can explain the rule for the actual case. Avoid moving property based on a general limit; transfers can affect long-term-care coverage.

What changes in July 2027?

DHCS currently says the general limit will fall on July 1, 2027, to $21,000 for one person and $31,000 for two. That is a future change. Check the separate dated guide and the agency page again before relying on it.