Medicaid is a federally regulated program that is individually administered by each state. Based on this the regulations in each state can be different and Medicaid is NOT TRANSFERRABLE from state to state.

Medicaid is considered an entitlement and eligibility is based on marital status, income, assets and level of care required. It is not automatically provided to an individual, you must apply and qualify based on the requirements.

There are several forms of Medicaid – allow Elder Care Solutions to navigate you through this complex maze.

Types of Medicaid

Resource and income eligibility levels subject to change yearly:

• Community – income based, no resource test. Typically used for medical needs.
• CASA/Home Care/Assisted Living – covers those who need home care services or assisted living level of care. Resource and income based. Currently only 30 days look back.  Penalties for transfers during the look back will be imposed just like they do for nursing home level Medicaid. Must meet income/asset requirements, and 3 step interview process for home care – MLTC/hours assigned.
• Nursing Home – resource based. Requires 60 month (5 year) look back at all financial accounts (open/closed) that were held in the lookback period. Income could be required to be paid to facility  - see information under income tab. 
• SSI Medicaid – resident can NOT have more than $2,000 in assets at any given time and is automatically approved for Medicaid. Must ask for Congregate Level 3 for Assisted Living Facilities so that the person receives higher income allotment. SS will randomly check financials to guarantee no assets above $2,000 – will stop benefit immediately if above the level.

"I can not begin to find the words to express my gratitude for all the help, support, and advice I received from Roxanne at Eldercare of WNY. There is no way I would have even begun to know how to navigate all the complicated issues by Mother’s financial affairs and getting her eligible for Medicaid. There were days I literally wanted to throw my hands in the air and cry I give up, but Roxanne patiently answered all my questions and concerns. Dealing with a parent’s health issues is hard enough without compounding it with financial and legal issues. Thank you again for all your assistance!!!!! "
~ Sue B. (daughter)