Thursday, June 4, 2026
Unified Savers
← All news
Positive

Medi-Cal Income Limits Raised — More IHSS Workers Now Qualify

California raised the Medi-Cal income eligibility threshold for adults with no dependents from 138% to 160% of the federal poverty level, effective January 2025. The change means thousands of IHSS workers earning up to $2,268/month now qualify.

Policy Context

If you previously didn't qualify for Medi-Cal because your income was too high, you may now qualify. Single adults earning up to $2,268/month gross are now eligible. Apply at benefitscal.com or call 1-800-541-5555.

California’s Medi-Cal program expanded its income eligibility threshold in January 2025, covering more working adults — including many IHSS providers who previously earned just above the cutoff.

New Income Limits (2025)

Household SizeMonthly Gross Income Limit
1 person$2,268 / month
2 people$3,065 / month
3 people$3,862 / month
4 people$4,659 / month

These limits apply to standard adult Medi-Cal (no share of cost). IHSS providers who earn IHSS income only are also covered under a special caregiver provision regardless of income.

How to Apply

  1. Online: benefitscal.com (fastest)
  2. Phone: 1-800-541-5555 (Covered California / Medi-Cal)
  3. In person: Your county DPSS office

Already on Medi-Cal?

No action needed. Your coverage continues automatically.

Questions?

Call 1-800-541-5555 or visit a local enrollment assister (free help available at community health centers).

Source: CDSS

BenefitsMedi-CalHealthcareEligibility

Free for Every IHSS Worker

Know Your Rights. Protect Your Pay.

Use our free IHSS tools to check if you're being underpaid, verify your county's current wage, and access benefits you may not know you qualify for.

Check If I'm Underpaid → Check My Benefits →

Also: View all 58 county wages · Full rights guide · Get free weekly updates