Program updates · In effect

Medi-Cal asset limits restored for certain groups

Asset limits returned on January 1, 2026 for certain non-MAGI Medi-Cal groups, mainly older adults, people with disabilities and people needing long-term care, with another statutory change scheduled for July 1, 2027.

Effective January 1, 2026Published August 27, 2026

Who this affects: Applicants and families, Benefits professionals

What changed

Asset limits returned for certain non-MAGI Medi-Cal groups on January 1, 2026. DHCS describes a further statutory change scheduled for July 1, 2027, and cautions against applying one universal financial threshold to everyone.

Who it affects

Mainly older adults, people with disabilities and people who need long-term care, which includes most people who apply for ALW.

What to do

Do not rely on older "no asset limit" materials. If assets are a question in your situation, get an individual benefits review before you assume an answer.

Sources

California DHCS, Asset Limit Frequently Asked Questions ↗

A change listed here is a summary; the state's own notice controls. Nothing on this page changes anyone's place on the waitlist or their eligibility.

Changes to this post

2026-08-27 First published.