Major Medi-Cal Changes in 2026

Primarily due to the large Medi-Cal budget deficit that we have written about, Medi-Cal is doing away with the no countable asset threshold and bringing it back in 2026. 

In 2024 and 2025, a person could qualify for Medi-Cal with unlimited assets. 

However, this will be a problem when they reapply for benefits in 2026. 

The good news is that between now and the end of the year, you will be able to transfer assets without penalty and be able to keep your benefits in 2026. 

Planning now also would apply to those who may need long-term care in the near future, have more than $130,000 in countable assets, have parents who may be needing long-term care or have a chronic illness.