Can I get help from Medi-Cal with Medicare costs?

Yes. Medicare is different from Medi-Cal. Medicare is a federal health insurance program run by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. It is available to most people 65 years of age or older and certain disabled or blind persons, regardless of income. Medicare Part "A" covers hospitalization. Medicare Part "B" covers doctor bills. If you receive Medicare, you may qualify for the following special Medi-Cal programs:

  • The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary program pays for the Medicare Part A and B premiums, co-insurance and deductibles. To be eligible you must have income at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level.
  • The Specified Low-Income Beneficiary and Qualifying Individual 1 program pay for all or some of the Medicare Part "B" premium. To be eligible you must have income below 135% of the Federal Poverty Level.
  • The Qualifying Individual 1 program reimburses you for a portion of your Medicare Part "B" premium that you have paid. To be eligible you must have income below 135% of the Federal Poverty Level.
  • The Qualified Disabled Working Individual program pays the Medicare Part "A" premium. To be eligible you must have income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, be disabled, be employed and eligible under any other Medi-Cal program.

Even if you don't qualify for the above assistance programs, your Medicare A and B premiums can be used as allowable deductions in the Medi-Cal share of costs calculation.

Show All Answers

1. How do I apply for Medi-Cal?
2. How long does the Medi-Cal application process take?
3. Do I have to pay for Medi-Cal?
4. What benefits does Medi-Cal provide?
5. I have Medicare. Can I apply for Medi-Cal also?
6. Can I get help from Medi-Cal with Medicare costs?
7. What services does Medi-Cal cover?
8. Is there a special program for children and pregnant women?
9. What is the Child Health and Disability Prevention (CHDP) Program?
10. What is the Medi-Cal Access Program (MCAP)?
11. What is the Women, Infants and Children Supplemental Nutritional Program (WIC)?
12. What is the Family Planning Services Program?
13. Are there county-operated health care programs?
14. What is the California Children Services (CCS)?
15. What is In-Home Supportive Services?
16. More Program Information and Telephone Numbers