Medi-Cal for Undocumented Individuals in California

Undocumented individuals in California face many challenges, including limited access to healthcare. However, under certain circumstances, undocumented individuals may be eligible for Medi-Cal benefits, California’s healthcare program for low-income residents. In this blog, we’ll discuss how undocumented individuals in California can be eligible for Medi-Cal benefits.

What is Medi-Cal?

Medi-Cal is California’s version of the federal Medicaid program, which provides low-cost or free healthcare to eligible individuals and families. Medi-Cal provides a range of healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and mental health services.

Eligibility for Medi-Cal for Undocumented Individuals in California

In California, undocumented individuals may be eligible for limited Medi-Cal benefits under certain circumstances. Here are the main eligibility requirements:

Income Requirements

To be eligible for limited Medi-Cal benefits, undocumented individuals must meet certain income requirements. Generally, individuals with incomes at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) are eligible for limited Medi-Cal benefits. The FPL is determined by the federal government each year. For example, in 2022, an individual making up to $1,562.92 per month would be eligible for Medi-Cal. A family of 4 making up to $3,191.25 would be eligible.

Age or Pregnancy

Undocumented individuals who are under the age of 26 or older than 50 and women who are pregnant may be eligible for full-scope Medi-Cal benefits. This includes all healthcare services covered under Medi-Cal.

Emergency Services

Undocumented individuals may be eligible for emergency Medi-Cal services, which include emergency room visits, ambulance rides, and other emergency healthcare services. Emergency Medi-Cal benefits cover the cost of the emergency services, but not ongoing care.

How to Apply for Medi-Cal Benefits for Undocumented Individuals in California

If you are an undocumented individual in California and believe you may be eligible for Medi-Cal benefits, you can apply in person at your local county social services office. You can also apply online through Covered California, the state’s health insurance marketplace.You can find more information on how to apply through the “Useful Information” section of our website at www.gpaclaw.com.

When applying for Medi-Cal benefits, you will need to provide documentation to prove your identity, income, and residency in California. Undocumented individuals may use alternative forms of identification, such as a foreign passport or consular identification card, to apply for Medi-Cal benefits.

If you have questions about the application process or need help filling out the application, you can contact the Covered California service center or your local county social services office.

Conclusion

Undocumented individuals in California face many barriers to accessing healthcare, but may be eligible for limited Medi-Cal benefits under certain circumstances. To be eligible, undocumented individuals must meet certain income requirements, be under the age of 19 or pregnant, or need emergency healthcare services. If you believe you may be eligible for Medi-Cal benefits, you can apply in person at your local county social services office or online through Covered California.

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