A low national consumer inflation index kept the federal poverty level income amounts from increasing no more than approximately 1 percent for 2021. The federal poverty level (FPL) dollar amounts are used to determine eligibility for many different California Medi-Cal health insurance programs. The single adult monthly income eligibility for the expanded Medi-Cal enrollment through Covered California rose to $1,482 for 2021, up from $1,468 in 2020.
1% Income Increase for Medi-Cal Eligibility
Adults are eligible for Medi-Cal if their monthly income is 138 percent or less of the FPL. For dependents under the age of 19, a household income of 266 percent or less makes them eligible for Medi-Cal. A single adult can earn up to $17,775 in 2021 and still qualify for Medi-Cal. A single adult with one dependent can earn up to $46,338 annually and the child will still be eligible for Medi-Cal.
Individuals and families who enrolled in health insurance through Covered California for plan year 2021 were determined eligible for any federal or California premium assistance based on 2020 FPL numbers. Even if the new FPLs are higher than the estimated income, the enrollment and subsidies will continue. However, if you make change to your application during the year, the new FPLs will apply and could trigger Medi-Cal eligibility.
An individual can be determined eligible for Medi-Cal retroactively. Medi-Cal can then consider covering certain out-of-pocket expenses. Medi-Cal will never cover any private health insurance premiums you may have paid if a retroactive Medi-Cal eligibility is determined. The higher FPL income amounts will become active in the Covered California application system in March.
