Care Eligibility
California / Applying and coverage

When does California Medi-Cal check assets at renewal?

The short answer

Some California Medi-Cal members must report assets when they apply or renew on or after January 1, 2026. This affects certain age, disability, and long-term-care eligibility groups. DHCS says existing members in these groups have assets reviewed at annual renewal. A married long-term-care case may have special 2026 instructions, so read the county notice carefully.

Source: DHCS eligibility FAQ

Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid program. DHCS is the California Department of Health Care Services.

Checked against DHCS on September 19, 2026Applications and renewals on or after January 1, 2026

When will the county ask about assets?

DHCS says some people must report assets when applying for Medi-Cal or renewing coverage on or after January 1, 2026. For someone already receiving Medi-Cal, DHCS says assets are reviewed at the annual renewal. The rule applies to certain age, disability, and long-term-care eligibility groups, not every member.

Agency sources:DHCS eligibility FAQDHCS asset-limit FAQ

What information should you have ready?

Read the renewal packet and the county's instructions. Make a current list of bank accounts, cash, property, vehicles, and any other resources the county asks about. DHCS's asset FAQ shows examples of what may count and what may be excluded.

Agency sources:DHCS asset-limit FAQDHCS eligibility FAQ

What if one spouse receives long-term care?

DHCS's 2026 spousal-policy letter gives separate renewal instructions for some cases approved before the asset test returned. In those cases, the county's notice and the property it asks each spouse to verify matter. Do not assume the general family-size figure resolves the renewal.

Agency source:DHCS spousal-policy letter 26-02

Where can you get an answer for your case?

Use the county Medi-Cal office named on the renewal notice. Ask which eligibility group applies, which assets the county counted, and the deadline on the notice. Keep copies of what you submit.

Agency sources:DHCS county office directoryDHCS eligibility FAQ

Sources checked

These agency pages were checked on September 19, 2026. Reopen them before making a time-sensitive decision.

Your next step

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.