A: Yes, potentially!
Starting January 1, 2026, California is reinstating the Medi-Cal asset test for many programs. That means your mom’s eligibility could depend not just on her income, but on what she owns. The rule will limit countable assets to $130,000 for an individual, plus $65,000 for each additional household member.
The good news? Some assets don’t count — like her home (if she lives in it), one car, household belongings, and certain retirement accounts in payout status.
The warning? If your mom has assets like cash, stocks, a second property, or too much in a bank account, she could lose benefits unless she plans ahead. This change mainly affects non-MAGI Medi-Cal recipients — typically seniors and those needing long-term care.
If your mom is on Medi-Cal now or may need long-term care in the future, it’s wise to review her estate and consider her options before the rules change.
