California Medi-Cal Insurance
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About Medi-Cal California Health Plans
Medi-Cal is California’s version of the federal Medicaid program, offering free or low-cost health coverage for California residents who meet eligibility requirements. Most individuals who apply through Covered California and enroll in Medi-Cal will receive services through health plans, similar to most of the health coverage options available through Covered California. Both Covered California and Medi-Cal use the same application to determine eligibility.
The state and federal governments jointly finance Medi-Cal. The program currently includes 21 managed care health plans that vary by county, and some are also offered through Covered California. Your health insurance depend on where you live. Freeway Insurance’s licensed, bilingual agents can help you find the right Medi-Cal plan or an affordable private option if you don’t qualify.
What is Medi-Cal in California?
Medi-Cal is a public health insurance program, which provides needed health care services for low-income individuals, including families with children, seniors, persons with disabilities, foster care, pregnant women, and low-income people with specific diseases such as tuberculosis, breast cancer or HIV/AIDS.
What Does Medi-Cal Cover?
All of the health plans offered through Covered California or by Medi-Cal include the same comprehensive set of benefits known as “essential health benefits.” Essential health benefits consist of:
- Outpatient (Ambulatory) services
- Emergency services
- Hospitalization
- Maternity and Newborn care
- Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Services, including Behavioral Health Treatment
- Prescription Drugs
- Programs such as physical and occupational therapy (known as Rehabilitative & Habilitative Services) and devices
- Laboratory services
- Preventive and wellness services & chronic disease management
- Children’s (Pediatric) services, including oral and vision care
Additional Medi-Cal benefits may include dental care (Denti-Cal), transportation to medical appointments, and mental health programs.
How Much Do Health Services Provided by Medi-Cal Cost?
For many individuals who qualify, Medi-Cal has no monthly premiums, co-pays, or out-of-pocket costs. Some families with slightly higher incomes may pay a small monthly premium — for example, around $13 per child for certain children’s programs.
In general, Medi-Cal members receive the same comprehensive benefits available through Covered California but at little to no cost.
Who’s Eligible for Medi-Cal?
To qualify based on income, your annual household income must be at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). In 2025, this means:
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$21,597 or less for an individual
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$44,367 or less for a family of four
You can also qualify for Medi-Cal if you are:
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65 or older
- Blind
- Disabled
- Under 21
- Pregnant
- In a skilled nursing or intermediate care home
- On refugee status for a limited time, depending how long you have been in the United States
- A parent or caretaker relative or a child under 21 if:
- The child’s parent is deceased or doesn’t live with the child, or
- The child’s parent is incapacitated, or
- The child’s parent is under employed or unemployed
- Have been screened for breast and/or cervical cancer (Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program)
What Are the Benefits of Medi-Cal?
Medi-Cal provides comprehensive benefits similar to those available through Covered California plans, often at no cost. It ensures continued access to doctors, hospitals, preventive care, prescriptions, and specialty services.
If you do not qualify for Medi-Cal, Freeway Insurance can help you find an affordable plan through Covered California. Our healthcare specialists can guide you toward the best available options for your household and budget.
Get Affordable Health Insurance Plans in California!
Find out if you qualify for free health insurance or you can get a free health insurance quote online to see your cost. Licensed and bilingual Freeway Insurance agents are ready to help you understand Medi-Cal eligibility and Covered California options at no cost.
Give us a call at 800-777-5620, contact us online or stop by one of our offices.
FAQs About Medi-Cal
Can an Undocumented Person Get Medi-Cal?
Yes. Undocumented residents of all ages now qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal coverage, regardless of immigration status, as long as they meet income and residency requirements. Previously, only certain age groups (under 26 and over 50) were eligible, but as of 2025, full access has expanded to everyone who qualifies by income. Emergency and pregnancy-related Medi-Cal remain available as well.
What Documents Do I Need to Apply for Medi-Cal?
You’ll need the following for everyone in your household:
- Official identification (driver’s license, passport, birth certificate)
- Social Security Number if you have one
- Proof of residency (utility bill, rent receipt)
- Tax filing information for anyone in the household who files taxes or is claimed as a dependent
How Long Does it Take to Find Out If I’m Approved for Medi-Cal?
Typically, you can expect it to take about 45 days to hear the status of your application. If you are denied, you can file an appeal. This information will be included in your letter. If you are approved, your letter will contain the next steps.