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Medicaid is one of the largest public health programs in the United States. As a recent report, around 72 million people were enrolled in Medicaid in the 50 states and the District of Columbia as of October 2024. Medicaid covered 8 in 10 children in poverty, and nearly half of adults in poverty in 2021, according to the KFF report.

Medicaid plays a crucial role in providing healthcare services to low-income individuals and families in California, including children, elderly adults, people with disabilities, and pregnant women. Approximately 12% of California’s population lived below the poverty line. Medicaid helps millions of Californians access healthcare. If you’re wondering how to qualify for Medicaid in California, let’s check this guide for valuable healthcare assistance.

1. What is Medicaid in California?

How to qualify for Medicaid in California 2

Medicaid helps millions of California people access healthcare.

Medicaid is a health care program that helps low-income people across the U.S. It started for those receiving cash assistance but has since expanded to cover more children and certain adults.

In general, if you have limited income and resources, you should apply for Medicaid. Each state decides how to run its Medicaid program and **Medi-Cal **is the version of Medicaid in California. Applying for Medicaid can help pay for doctor visits, medications, dental care, surgery, hospital visits, and more.

California’s Medicaid program is the largest in the country. More than 13,6 million people enrolled in Medi-Cal (as of Apr 2024), according to the KFF report. 2 in 9 adults aged 19-64 are covered by Medicaid in Califonia. Total Medicaid spending in California by service is $118.9 billion.

Also read: Benefits For Low-Income Single Person California: How to Access

**2. How to Qualify for Medicaid in California **

You are eligible for Medicaid if you are:

  • Over 65 years old
  • Blind or disabled
  • Pregnant
  • Living in a nursing or care home
  • Under 21 years old
  • A refugee living temporarily in the U.S

If you’re a parent or guardian caring for a child under 21, you may also qualify if the child’s parents: have passed away; don’t live with the child; are unable to care for the child; or are unemployed.

Califonia has expanded Medicaid coverage, which means you can qualify based on your income alone. If your income is below **138% **of the poverty level, you are eligible for Medi-Cal.

Also, you may qualify for Medicaid in California if you participate in any of the following programs:

  • CalFresh (California’s SNAP program)
  • SSP (California’s version of SSI)
  • CalWorks (California’s version of TANF)
  • Refugee Assistance
  • Foster Care or Adoption Assistance Program

When applying for Medicaid, you may need to provide certain documents and information. Generally, you will be asked for:

  • Your name and date of birth
  • Your Social Security number
  • Monthly payment amounts for rent, mortgage, or utilities
  • Proof of citizenship or immigration status
  • Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs or W-2 forms)
  • Verification of other government benefits you receive
  • Information about any insurance plan offered by your employer or that you currently have

3. What Are the Benefits of Medicaid in California?

Medicaid doesn’t give money directly to you; it pays your healthcare providers instead. You might need to pay a small part of the cost (called a co-payment) for some services.

Applying for Medicaid in California can help pay for doctor visits, medications, dental care, surgery, hospital visits, and more. In CA, the federal government paid around 90% of the cost of the Medicaid expansion in 2024.

The Affordable Care Act requires that all qualified health plans, including Medicaid, cover Essential Health Benefits. These benefits include:

  • Outpatient services
  • Emergency care
  • Hospitalization
  • Maternity
  • Newborn care
  • Mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Prescription medications
  • Physical or occupational therapy

It also covers preventive services, chronic disease management, and dental and vision care.

Besides, when you participate in Medicaid, you can be eligible for Lifeline – the best government phone program in California.

How to qualify for Medicaid in California 3

Medi-Cal helps you pay for doctor visits, medications, dental care, surgery, hospital visits, and more.

Lifeline is a government program that helps make phone and internet services more affordable for low-income households in California.

Eligible consumers can get a monthly discount of up to $9.25, while those living on Tribal lands can receive up to $34.25.

Eligible consumers also receive a free SIM card with free talk, text, and data each month. The service includes unlimited text and picture messaging, so users can stay connected, plus emergency 911 access.

Medicaid provides essential healthcare services, while Lifeline offers communication services to help people stay connected.

Step 2: Choose your Plan

Select between two plan options:

  • Free Phone and Plan: Get a free phone with a service plan.
  • Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): Use your own phone with the phone plan provided.

Step 3: Select a Device

You can choose from a selection of free or discounted smartphones, tablets, and bundles.

Best free government phones in California:

  • Apple iPhone 8
  • Samsung Galaxy A51 5G
  • FOXXD A56
  • Motorola one 5G ACE

Step 4: Submit your Documents

Submit the necessary documents to verify your eligibility for Lifeline.

Check out the required documents now.

Conclusion

Medicaid in California, Medi-Cal, provides a range of benefits, including free or low-cost healthcare services, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, and more. To qualify, you need to meet certain requirements, such as income, household size, age, or health status.

With the required documentation and understanding of the qualifications, you can apply for Medi-Cal and begin accessing the healthcare services you need to maintain your well-being. If you think you might be eligible, it’s a good idea to apply and take advantage of these important benefits.