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Pregnant Persons

If you are pregnant, Medi-Cal may provide you with free or low-cost health care coverage during your pregnancy and up to 365 days post-partum. Below you will find the information you need to find out if you qualify for any pregnancy related Medi-Cal programs.

A woman talking to a pregnant person
Basic Eligibility Requirements

Congratulations!  You’re expecting a baby!  DPSS wants to help you get the health coverage you need during your pregnancy.

  • You must be pregnant.
  • You must reside in California.
  • You must provide information about your income and
    other necessary information if requested.
  • If you file income taxes, then you must declare your tax filing
    status, however, it is not required that you file taxes to apply
    for Medi-Cal.
Income Requirements

Below are the income limits for pregnant individuals based on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). 

Be sure to count your unborn child (ren) in your family size.

Select MCAP for more information on Medi-Cal Access Program.

Income Levels for Pregnancy Programs
Family Size

No Cost

FULL-SCOPE 

Medi-Cal

0-138% FPL

PREGNANCY RELATED SERVICES

139-213% FPL

Medi-Cal Access Program

(MCAP)

214-322% FPL
1 $1,732 $2,674 $4,042
2 $2,352 $3,630 $5,487
3 $2,970 $4,584 $6,930
4 $3,588 $5,538 $8,372
5 $4,208 $6,495 $9,818
6 $4,826 $7,449 $11,261
7 $5,445 $8,403 $12,703
8 $6,064 $9,360 $14,149
Citizenship/Immigration Requirements

As of January 1, 2024, a new law in California gives full Medi-Cal to all Californians who qualify for Medi-Cal.  Unlike before, immigration status does not matter. This new law means that all California residents who qualify for Medi-Cal will receive full Medi-Cal benefits, bringing us closer to a Healthy California for All.

Renewal Requirements

Your family’s Medi-Cal eligibility must be reviewed at least once a year.  

Apply On-Line with BenefitsCal

The easiest and quickest way is to apply for Medi-Cal online at BenefitsCal.

Apply By Phone
You can apply by phone. Call the Customer Service Center (CSC) (866) 613-3777 to have an application mailed to you.
Apply In Person
You can apply In person at any Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) District Office or outreach site.
Other Health Resources
Frequently Asked Questions