Medicaid And Spouses

Income and asset eligibility rules are slightly different for married and single individuals. There are rules in place to protect a certain amount of assets for spouses of nursing home residents seeking Medicaid assistance.

For instance, in counting assets, Medicaid will allow for a "protected spousal amount" (PSA). In 2001, the PSA is 50 percent of a married couple's total assets (not to exceed $87,000 and not to be less than $17,400.) Again - these numbers are subject to change each year - so be sure to talk with your Medicaid office about what parts of joint assets a spouse.

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

page 36