Medi-Cal Long-Term Custodial Care: Treatment of Vehicles, Collections, and Personal Property

California Medi-Cal distinguishes between countable assets, which apply to the $130,000 resource limit for long-term custodial care, and exempt assets, which do not. Personal property is treated differently depending on whether it is considered a household necessity or an item with investment or resale value.

Vehicles

One vehicle of any value is exempt. This exemption applies regardless of the car’s age, mileage, or market value. Additional vehicles beyond the first are countable and their equity value is included toward the resource limit.

Coins and Stamp Collections

Coins, precious metals, rare currency, and stamp collections are countable assets. Medi-Cal treats these items as investments or stores of value. Their fair market value is included in the resource calculation. Collections are not considered personal household goods and therefore do not qualify for exemption.

Golf Equipment

Golf clubs, golf bags, and related sporting equipment are exempt as personal belongings. Medi-Cal does not count recreational or hobby equipment toward the resource limit unless the items are held primarily for investment or resale. Ordinary personal-use golf equipment is excluded.

Tools

Tools used for personal purposes or hobbies are exempt. Tools used for employment or self-employment are also exempt as “tools of the trade.” Only tools held as collectibles or investments would be counted, and only at fair market value. In ordinary circumstances, tools are not included in the resource limit.

Summary Table

Asset Type	Medi-Cal Treatment
Primary vehicle (one)	Exempt regardless of value
Additional vehicles	Countable at equity value
Coin collections, precious metals	Countable as investments
Stamp collections	Countable as investments
Golf equipment	Exempt as personal belongings
Tools (personal or work)	Exempt unless held for investment

Context for Custodial Care Eligibility

These rules apply to Non-MAGI Medi-Cal programs, including long-term custodial care in skilled nursing facilities. Medicare does not impose asset limits and does not cover custodial care. Medicaid/Medi-Cal asset rules determine eligibility for long-term care coverage and share-of-cost calculations.