Medi-Cal and Elder Care Planning
Long-term care is expensive, and Medi-Cal can help pay for it if you qualify. We help older adults and their families plan ahead: what counts toward Medi-Cal's limits, how to make gifts safely, and how to protect the family home.
What changed in 2026
Since January 1, 2026, Medi-Cal again counts assets for people age 65 or older, people who are blind or disabled, and long-term care.
- The limit is $130,000 for one person, plus $65,000 for each additional household member ($195,000 for a couple).
- The California Department of Health Care Services says these limits apply through June 30, 2027.
- Medi-Cal checks your assets when you apply and when you renew.
Gifts and the 30-month look-back
If you need nursing home care, Medi-Cal looks at gifts and other transfers made in the 30 months before you enter the facility.
- Transfers made before January 1, 2026 are not counted.
- Transfers made on or after January 1, 2026 for less than fair value can delay your coverage.
Talk with us before you make a large gift.
What usually does not count
- Your home, in most cases
- One car
- Household goods and personal items
- Some retirement accounts that are already paying out
Every situation is different, so we review each item with you.
After a Medi-Cal member dies
California may ask to be repaid for some care costs for members age 55 or older. It can collect only from property that goes through probate, and it does not collect while a surviving spouse or registered domestic partner is alive. Property in a funded living trust, or that passes by beneficiary designation, is generally outside this recovery.
How we help
- Review what you own and what Medi-Cal counts
- Plan gifts and transfers before you make them
- Set up trusts where they fit, including special needs trusts
- Retitle your home and accounts to limit estate recovery
- Prepare powers of attorney and health care directives
- Plan around VA benefits. We do not file or appeal VA claims; we can refer you to a VA-accredited representative.
- If Medi-Cal denies coverage, explain the notice and refer you if a hearing is needed
Frequently Asked Questions: Bay Area Medi-Cal
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No. You can keep up to the asset limit, and some property does not count at all.
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You can. But if you need nursing home care within 30 months, a gift made on or after January 1, 2026 may delay your coverage. Talk with us first.
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efore care is needed. Planning early gives you more choices.
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No. Most states look back 60 months; California looks back 30 months. If you own property in or move from another state, tell us at your consultation.
Book a consultation
Call 415-905-0215 or book online to review your Medi-Cal and long-term care plan.