Every year the Social Security Administration publishes its list of Supplemental Security Income & Spousal Impoverishment Standards that are adjusted for inflation. These standards define the minimum and maximum amount of resources and income limits that an individual and/or their spouse can have in order to be on Medicaid. Here are the new numbers for 2021 (also available on the Medicaid Website):
Individual Limits
Income Cap Limit for an Individual: $2,382.00 per month
Resource Cap for an Individual: $2,000 per month (same as previous year)
Spousal Limits
Minimum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance (MMNA): $2,155.00
Maximum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance: $3,259.50
Community Spouse Resources:
Minimum Resource Standard: $26,076.00
Maximum Resource Standard: $130,380.00
Home Equity Limits:
Minimum: $603,000.00
Maximum: $906,000.00
The expense of nursing home care can devastate a family’s resources as expenses for a nursing home rise. Currently, a stay at a skilled nursing facility can easily cost $15,000 or more per month. It seems hard to fathom how a couple can survive on the above thresholds, especially if there is a “Community Spouse” (i.e. spouse living in the community). There are strict rules for the use of income of the spouse on Medicaid and an even stricter limit for resources. These rules are complex and hard to navigate. However, with the proper legal guidance and direction, you can help plan for your or your loved one’s nursing home care costs, or plan to receive home and community-based waiver services. Whether you or a loved one is looking to qualify for Medicaid or continue to remain eligible for Medicaid to supplement the cost of long-term care, Rao Legal Group is here to help! Contact us via our website at www.EstateElderPlanning.com or call our office at 609-372-2855 to see how we can help you!