You can apply for Medi-Cal year-round. Eligibility can take up to 45 days to determine and 90 days to determine for disabled individuals.
Who is Eligible?
Low-income Californians, including adults, children and their families, persons with disabilities, children in foster care, former foster youth up to age 26, and pregnant individuals
Eligible immigrants receive full-scope Medi-Cal or restricted Medi-Cal based on immigration status
Uninsured who need free COVID-19 health care: If you are uninsured or have Medi-Cal but do not have a regular doctor, call the Medi-Nurse line 24 hours a day. You'll get COVID-19 advice and referrals for free testing and treatment, regardless of income and immigration status. Learn more (English | Spanish).
What Do You Need to Apply?
You’ll need to provide the information below for all household members. HSA will try to verify your information electronically. If we can’t, we’ll ask you for verification documentation.
- Identification – Driver's license, California ID card, passport, birth certificates, or proof of immigration status
- Social Security numbers for applicants who have them or are eligible to have them
- Proof of residency – Rent or mortgage receipt or utility bill
- Proof of income – Pay stubs, Social Security award letter, child support and alimony, unemployment/disability stubs, or Veterans benefits
- Tax filing information for anyone in the household who files taxes or is claimed as a dependent (you don’t have to file taxes to qualify for Medi-Cal)
How do I apply?
Fill out the application using one of the following options:
How do I know if I was approved for Medi-Cal?
You will receive a Notice of Action (NOA) or a Request for Information. The Notice of Action will inform you of your benefits and list each eligible individual in your household. If we need more information to determine your eligibility, you will receive a Request for Information.
If you disagree with the eligibility decision, you may call 1-800-223-8383 for an explanation or you may file for a State Hearing by completing the back of your Notice of Action.
Once you have been approved for Medi-Cal, you will receive a Benefits Identification Card (BIC) in the mail.
You will be automatically enrolled in the Health Plan of San Mateo which is the managed care plan for San Mateo County. You will receive a packet and HPSM ID card.
We help you determine your eligibility for health care coverage
Don't know if you qualify for Medi-Cal? Even if you don’t, we encourage you to still apply. We will evaluate you for other affordable health care options:
- Covered California: Helps qualified applicants obtain discounted health insurance from well-known companies
- The County Children’s Health Initiative Program (CCHIP): Provides affordable and comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance for children up to age 18.
- Medi-Cal Access Program (MCAP): Provides healthcare to mid-income, uninsured pregnant women.
Don't qualify for insurance?
You can still receive basic, affordable health care services through San Mateo County Access and Care for Everyone (ACE). This program serves uninsured residents regardless of immigration status, employment status, or pre-existing medical conditions. Learn more about applying by clicking blue link above.