In addition to the limits on assets, the resident’s monthly income must be less than the nursing home’s monthly private pay rate. If the Medicaid applicant is married, the community spouse will usually be entitled to keep a portion of joint income. If the spouse has income independent of the resident, the spouse may be able to retain that income. If the spouse does not have separate income, or a very low income, the spouse may be allowed to keep a portion of the resident’s income. This is called a community spouse income allowance, and the amount is determined by Medicaid. 

Category: Medicaid and Medicare
Categories: