State RegulationsCA specific✓ Verified · outline & fact-checked · Sep 2026Difficulty 2/5
In California, children under age 19 are eligible for Medi-Cal when family income is at or below what percentage of the federal poverty level?
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why A is correct
California's Medi-Cal expansion uses MAGI-based eligibility thresholds. Adults aged 19-64 qualify at or below 138% of the federal poverty level, but children under 19 qualify at the higher threshold of 266% FPL. The higher children's threshold reflects a policy choice to cover more children under Medi-Cal. These percentages are core PPACA/Medi-Cal numbers tested on the California A&H exam, and Medi-Cal eligibility is administered under California law (CIC Section 12710 et seq.).
Why the other options are wrong
- B) 138% FPL is the Medi-Cal threshold for adults aged 19-64, not for children under 19.
- C) 100% FPL is not the Medi-Cal children's threshold; the state uses the higher 266% figure.
- D) 400% FPL is the ceiling for premium tax credits (APTC), not the Medi-Cal child eligibility threshold.
Memory hook
Kids ride higher: 266% FPL for under-19s, 138% for adults. Children's coverage is the friendlier door.