As of January 1, 2024, Medi-Cal no longer factors in assets such as bank accounts, cash, second vehicles, and homes when determining eligibility. This monumental shift holds particularly promising news for those in the Long-Term Care Medi-Cal program, especially those residing in skilled nursing facilities. The old myth that “you could only have $2,000.00 in your name” has now been relegated to history.
Embracing a New Era of Accessible Health Care
Gone are the days when individuals had to navigate the complex landscape of asset tests and “spend down”, potentially denying them the health care coverage they desperately needed. The elimination of asset considerations signifies a profound step forward in ensuring that more people can avail themselves of the medical support they require without the burden of financial constraints.
The Liberating Impact on Long-Term Care Medi-Cal Program Participants
This change is a beacon of hope for individuals in the Long-Term Care Medi-Cal program who reside in skilled nursing facilities or are seeking admission. Previously, the asset test was a barrier for many, hindering access to necessary healthcare services. With this new development, those facing coverage denials, delays, reductions, or stoppages due to their assets can now seek recourse.
Your Second Chance: Review, Reapply, and Reclaim
If your Medi-Cal coverage was affected by asset-related issues, there’s good news on the horizon. You can request a review of your case from your local Medi-Cal office. Alternatively, you can reapply under the revised 2024 rules, ensuring that your hard-earned savings are no longer a hindrance to the health care you deserve.
Savings Protection: A Welcome Reprieve
Individuals no longer need to exhaust or give away their savings unnecessarily to qualify for Medi-Cal. The elimination of the asset test empowers individuals to preserve their financial security while securing essential health care coverage. This marks a departure from the traditional “spend down” requirement or complex gifting rules, offering a welcome reprieve for countless individuals.
Application Process Simplified
Starting January 1, 2024, Medi-Cal applications will no longer inquire about asset information. While income rules will remain consistent, excluding asset consideration streamlines the application process, making it more accessible to a wider demographic. This simplification encourages those previously discouraged or denied coverage to reevaluate their eligibility under the new rules.
A Call to Action: Apply for Medi-Cal in 2024
If you were recently denied coverage, don’t be deterred. The changes in 2024 mean that you may now be eligible for Medi-Cal. Removing asset considerations opens up new possibilities for individuals who were once excluded based on financial criteria. Even if you were previously denied, seize this opportunity to apply for Medi-Cal and benefit from the revised eligibility criteria.
In conclusion, eliminating the asset test in 2024 represents a transformative shift in Long-Term Care Medi-Cal eligibility, fostering a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system. As we usher in this new era, individuals are encouraged to take advantage of the simplified application process and explore renewed opportunities for healthcare coverage.
I am updating my “Understanding Long-Term Care Medi-Cal’ eBook with these new guidelines. Click here to be notified when this comprehensive legal guide will be available for download.
In the meantime, we at Botti & Morison Estate Planning Attorneys are here to help with elder law and estate planning questions and issues. We have six California offices in Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Bakersfield, Valencia, and Westlake Village. Please contact us to schedule an appointment, call 877-585-1885.
Thanks for reading.
Christopher E. Botti, Esq., Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law