Medicaid And Your Income

Aside from assets, Medicaid also will look at income. There are strict limits on the amount of income nursing home residents themselves may receive and keep. Examples of the kinds of income counted toward Medicaid eligibility determination include Social Security benefits, pensions and Veterans benefits.

The Medicaid office will consider the amount of income the applicant has each month in determining what percentage of nursing home costs that Medicaid will pay for and what percentage the applicant will be expected to pay for out his or her own income. Most Medicaid patients are assigned a co-pay amount that will absorb most of their monthly income. Residents will be allowed to keep about $30 per month out of their income for personal needs. Residents who are married or have dependent children at home also may be able to keep a certain amount or percentage of their income to provide support to their family. Residents may be allowed to keep back income earmarked for paying certain types of medical costs and insurance coverage premiums. Income limits and rules surrounding exemptions are subject to change each year, so the best thing to do is discuss these issues fully with Medicaid office staff during your application process.

*Medicaid rules and guidelines differ by state and can change yearly, you should contact your local Medicaid office for the most current information.

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