New Delhi: Navigating the medical benefits for aging parents is a top priority for Central Government employees in 2026. While the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) offers world-class cashless treatment, the strict Dependency Criteria often lead to card rejections. Understanding how the government calculates “Combined vs. Separate” income and the new rules for Parents-in-Law is essential for every serving and pensioner employee.
⚡ 2026 Policy Break-Through:
Both male and female employees now have the equal right to choose between including their parents OR their parents-in-law for CGHS benefits. This ends the decades-old gender disparity in medical coverage.
Refer to these Master OMs from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) to verify your parents’ eligibility:
1. The 2026 Income Dependency Limit
Parents are deemed dependent if they normally reside with the employee and their monthly income from all sources (pension, interest, etc.) does not exceed ₹9,000 + Dearness Relief (DR). With the latest 60% DR hike, the threshold is significantly higher for 2026.
| Criteria | Limit |
|---|---|
| Base Monthly Income | ₹9,000 |
| Dearness Relief (DR) @ 60% | ₹5,400 |
| Total Dependency Ceiling | ₹14,400 per month |
2. Separate vs. Combined Income Rule
A common mistake is adding both parents’ income together. Here is the legal clarification:
- The “Separate” Benefit: If only one parent has an income (e.g., Father gets ₹15,000 pension) and the other has zero, only the Mother can be included. The Father is ineligible.
- Combined Impact: If the Father’s income exceeds the limit, he is excluded, but the Mother can still be a beneficiary if her individual income is below ₹14,400.
3. Choice Between Parents vs. Parents-in-Law
As per the MoHFW OM dated July 2023, all employees (Male and Female) can choose to include their parents-in-law instead of their biological parents.
- The “One Pair” Rule: You can only have one pair (Mother/Father OR Mother-in-Law/Father-in-Law) on the card.
- Switching Privilege: You can change this selection once during your entire service period.
Related Guide: While managing healthcare, ensure you are also updated on the Notional Increment Arrears to fund potential out-of-pocket medical costs.
4. Conclusion & Action Steps
To include your parents in 2026, you must submit a residence certificate and an income certificate/self-declaration. If your parents are pensioners, their PPO copy must be attached. Ensure their details are linked with the New CGHS 70+ Referral Rules if they qualify for direct specialist consultation.
🛡️ SECURE YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH!