Medi-Cal and Covered California

Medi-Cal offers free or low-cost health coverage for people with limited income in California. If you qualify, you can enroll in Medi-Cal anytime. Generally, it take about 45 days for the local county to review and determine your Medi-CAL eligibility. Over the past decade, Medi-Cal has grown rapidly, and more than two million Californians are expected to join Medi-Cal during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Difference between Covered California and Medi-Cal

Medi-Cal offers low-cost or free health coverage to eligible Californian residents with limited income. Covered California is the state’s health insurance marketplace where you can shop for health plans with financial assistance. Health plans available through Medi-Cal and Covered California both offer essential health benefits.  However, depending on your income, you can only qualify for one program.

Requirements for Medi-Cal?

To qualify for Medi-Cal, you must live in the state of California and meet certain rules. You must give income and tax filing status information for everyone who is in your family and is on your tax return.

• Income – Each program under Medi-Cal has set income limits based on a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level.
• Immigration – Most Medi-Cal programs require individuals to have satisfactory immigration status. However, certain programs such as prenatal care and emergency Medi-Cal are available for those without satisfactory immigration status.
• Disability – Those receiving SSI can receive Medi-Cal coverage as well as those not receiving SSI but who are disabled under the definition of disability by the Social Security Administration.

How can I apply for Medi-Cal?

You can apply Medi-Cal online on coveredca.com. Also this single application will let you know if you qualify for coverage through Covered California or Medi-Cal.  You can also apply in person at your local county human services agency or by phone.

After Applying

Once you submit your application, your local county will determine your eligibility.  If more information is needed, the county will contact you.  During the next 45 days, the county will mail you a notice if you qualify for Medi-Cal.  If you are eligible, you will receive a Medi-Cal benefits identification card (BIC) in the mail.  You will also receive a packet that explains the available Medi-Cal health plans in your county and how to enroll.

If you are no longer eligible for Medi-Cal

If you no longer qualify for Medi-Cal, you may enroll in Covered California within 60 days.

Medi-Cal and Covered California Free Help

Skyline Benefit is an official Covered California storefront agency in Orange County.  We provide free Medi-Cal consultation and enrollment services.  If you need assistance with your Medi-Cal eligibility, call us at (714) 888-5116. Or you can click here to book an appointment today.