Medi-Cal share of cost in a nursing home

Share of Cost Advisors · Checked September 30, 2026 · 5 min read

How nursing home share of cost is figured

The resident pays that amount to the nursing home each month. Medi-Cal pays the facility’s remaining cost.

Personal needs allowance

Protections for a spouse at home

If the resident is married, the spouse living at home is protected from losing everything. In 2026, the spouse at home can keep up to $4,067 a month in combined income (the minimum monthly maintenance needs allowance) and up to $162,660 in resources. Part of the resident’s income can go to the spouse to reach that amount, which lowers the resident’s share of cost.

Premiums still count

Health insurance premiums the resident pays, such as Medicare Part B when not paid by the state, or a Medigap plan, are deducted before the share of cost is set. Premiums for the spouse at home generally cannot be deducted from the resident’s budget, except for one joint policy covering both.

Asset limit for long-term care

Since January 1, 2026, a $130,000 asset limit applies to long-term care Medi-Cal (plus $65,000 per additional person), and transfer penalties apply again to transfers made on or after that date. Ask your county or an elder law attorney before moving assets.

Common questions