How to apply for Medi-Cal for Children
Free or low-cost health coverage for eligible children in California is provided through Medi-Cal, which includes California's Medicaid and CHIP programs.
Who it's for
Children whose families meet California's Medi-Cal requirements. A child may qualify even when the parents do not qualify for Medi-Cal.
Household information you'll need
You'll be asked for this information when you apply for Medi-Cal for Children. Gather it ahead of time so the application goes smoothly.
Household composition & size
- Total household size — everyone living in your home, including yourself, your spouse, and any tax dependents.
- Tax filing status — whether you plan to file taxes, and who you claim as a tax dependent (even if they are not applying for coverage themselves).
- Relationships — the legal marital status or relationship of everyone listed in your household.
Household income information
- Gross income — total earnings from jobs, self-employment, or odd jobs for all household members.
- Unearned income — Social Security benefits, disability payments, unemployment, child support, or pensions received by anyone in the home.
- Income documents — recent pay stubs, W-2 forms, or tax returns.
Member-specific details
- Social Security numbers for all household members who have them.
- Dates of birth and proof of identity (such as a driver's license or birth certificate) for applicants.
- Special status — information about pregnancy, blindness, disabilities, or Medicare enrollment for applicable household members.
- Proof of California residency (like a utility bill or lease) and immigration or citizenship documents, if applicable.
- Assets and property — for seniors 65+, disabled applicants, or those needing long-term care.
How to apply
- 1
Gather the child's and household's information
Collect the child's information and your household's information.
- 2
Have income information available
Have your income information available.
- 3
Have citizenship or immigration information available
Have citizenship or immigration information available for applicants when required.
- 4
Apply through BenefitsCal or Covered California
Complete one application through BenefitsCal, Covered California, or your county social services office. California will determine whether each child qualifies for Medi-Cal.
- 5
Complete one application for the household
Complete one application for the household.
- 6
California will determine Medi-Cal eligibility
The county will review the application and determine whether the child qualifies for Medi-Cal.
- 7
Provide additional documents if requested
Provide additional documents if requested.
- 8
Wait for the eligibility decision
Wait for the eligibility decision.
- 9
Select a health plan or doctor when applicable
If approved, follow instructions for selecting a health plan or doctor when applicable.
- 10
Keep the child's insurance card
Keep the child's insurance card.
What to have ready
- Child's and household information
- Income information
- Citizenship or immigration information for applicants, when required
Where to apply
Good to know
- Families can apply for Medi-Cal throughout the year.
This California guide is general information, not an official eligibility decision. Requirements vary by program and can change. A resettlement agency, county benefits office, or Covered California enrollment counselor can help you confirm your options.