Medi-Cal is California's version of Medicaid

Medi-Cal is the name California uses for its Medicaid program. Medicaid itself is a federal program, but each state runs its own version under federal rules and gets to name it. California calls theirs Medi-Cal. If you live in California and you hear "Medicaid," the program being discussed is Medi-Cal.

The confusion exists because the federal government created Medicaid as a framework in 1965, then let states design their own programs within that framework. States receive federal funding and set their own income limits, covered services, and application processes. California chose the name Medi-Cal; other states use different names — Texas calls it CHIP, New York calls it Medicaid, and so on.

For a California resident, "Medi-Cal" and "Medicaid" refer to the same program. You will see both terms used interchangeably in official documents, on websites, and in conversations with caseworkers. The state's official program name is Medi-Cal, but federal references and national health discussions use "Medicaid."

Key Takeaways

  • Medi-Cal is California's name for the Medicaid program — they are the same program, not two separate ones.
  • Medicaid is federal; each state runs its own version and picks its own name, income limits, and covered services.
  • California's income limits, covered services, and application process are set by the state, not by the federal government directly.
  • If you live outside California, your state's Medicaid program will have a different name and different rules than Medi-Cal.

How Medi-Cal's rules differ from other states' Medicaid programs

California's Medi-Cal has higher income limits than many other states' Medicaid programs. As of 2024, California covers adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level, and the state has historically covered parents and pregnant people at higher income thresholds than the federal minimum requires. Other states set lower income limits, meaning a person earning the same amount might be covered in California but not in another state.

The covered services also vary. California's Medi-Cal covers dental care, vision care, and mental health services as part of the standard benefit package. Some states cover these only for children or pregnant people, or do not cover them through Medicaid at all. If you move from California to another state or vice versa, your coverage will change.

The application process and caseworker availability differ too. California processes Medi-Cal applications through the county Department of Social Services, and you can apply online, by mail, or in person. Other states use different agencies and different application methods. If you have moved or are planning to move, you will need to apply in your new state's program — your California Medi-Cal coverage does not transfer.

Why the name matters less than the state you live in

The name Medi-Cal is specific to California, but what matters for your coverage is which state you live in when you apply. You cannot hold Medi-Cal if you do not live in California. If you move out of state, you lose Medi-Cal and must apply for that state's Medicaid program instead. If you move into California, you apply for Medi-Cal, not "Medicaid."

When you see the word "Medicaid" in national health articles, news stories, or federal policy discussions, it refers to the program category across all states. When you see "Medi-Cal," it refers specifically to California's version. Both terms are correct depending on context — one is the umbrella term, the other is the state-specific name.

Where to find information about your state's Medicaid program

If you live in California, go to the official Medi-Cal website (medi-cal.ca.gov) or contact your county Department of Social Services. If you live in another state, search for "[your state name] Medicaid" to find that state's program website and rules.

You can also call 211 from any phone to reach a local referral service that knows your state's program and can direct you to the right application site. The 211 service is free and available nationwide; they will tell you the correct program name for your state and how to reach it.

What happens if you move between states

If you are currently on Medi-Cal and move out of California, your coverage ends on the last day of the month you move. You have 30 days to apply for your new state's Medicaid program to avoid a gap in coverage. Contact your new state's Medicaid office as soon as you have a new address.

If you move into California from another state, your previous state's Medicaid coverage ends, and you must apply for Medi-Cal. You can apply online at medi-cal.ca.gov, by mail, or in person at your county Department of Social Services. California will not automatically transfer your information from your previous state's program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Medi-Cal cheaper than Medicaid in other states?

Medi-Cal and other states' Medicaid programs are free or low-cost to members — you do not pay a premium. The difference is in what services are covered and who is covered, not in what you pay as a member. California covers more people and more services than some states, but that does not affect your out-of-pocket cost if you are enrolled.

Can I use my Medi-Cal card in another state?

No. Medi-Cal only works in California. If you travel out of state, you can use emergency services, but routine care is not covered. If you move to another state permanently, you must apply for that state's Medicaid program.

Do I need to reapply for Medi-Cal if I already had Medicaid in another state?

Yes. Each state runs its own program with its own application, income verification, and enrollment process. Moving to California means starting a new Medi-Cal application. Your previous state's Medicaid information will not transfer automatically.

What if I see "Medicaid" on a form but I live in California?

It is the same program. Federal forms and national documents often use "Medicaid" as the umbrella term. If the form is from California or asks about California coverage, it is referring to Medi-Cal. If you are unsure, contact your county Department of Social Services or call 211.