Medi-Cal eligibility is determined by the amount of income
and resources available to the applicant. Therefore, Medi-Cal
Planning involves the purchasing, transferring, conversion
and/or liquidating of assets to enable you or your loved one
to qualify under Medi-Cal's 2-prong test of income and resources.
Is this Legal?
You bet! Due to changes in federal laws enacted in 1996,
almost anyone can qualify under Medi- Cal's eligibility tests.
This is done by working within the Medi-Cal rules, and the
planning may be different for one individual to the next.
It all depends on your own personal set of circumstances and
objectives.
In fact, the Department of Health Services (DHS) makes the
Medi-Cal applicant sign a declaration that he is aware that
such is possible - the "Notice of Spendown."
However, the Medi-Cal rules are very complex, and change
every year. Since an improper transfer may result in a period
of ineligibility up to 5 years, please consult with a qualified
professional before attempting to qualify for Medi-Cal benefits.
