Medi-Cal Planning

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.

More Medi-Cal Questions & Answers