I’ve been researching the “Big Beautiful Bill” and its impact on Medi-Cal. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, especially about California.
Some websites are claiming California will be impacted by the bill’s $1 million home equity cap starting in 2028. They also say California has a “60-month lookback” period for asset transfers. Neither is true. California still operates under older rules and has not implemented DRA05.
Even worse, these sites are giving terrible advice, including:
“Apply for Medi-Cal before October 1, 2028, to lock in eligibility under current rules.”
NO, NO, NO. That’s simply wrong.
Here’s why:
-Medi-Cal eligibility is redetermined every year. Applying early does not “lock in” eligibility.
-Only Long-Term Care Medi-Cal ignores income. Other Medi-Cal programs use a strict income test that leaves you with just $600 a month (single) or $800 (married) after paying for most services.
-If what you need is medical care, Medicare typically covers more and is accepted by far more providers than Medi-Cal.
If you want to protect your home equity and assets the right way, work with someone who actually knows California’s Medi-Cal rules. Give me a call.
