Does Medicaid Pay for Assisted Living?
Many families hope Medicaid will help with assisted living costs. The honest answer is that it depends on your state and the program. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.
Medicaid is run by each state
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program, and each state decides much of what it covers and who qualifies. That is why two families in different states can get very different answers to the same question.
How it can help with assisted living
Medicaid has traditionally paid for nursing home care. For assisted living, help often comes through state programs such as home and community based services waivers, where available. Names, rules and the number of people served differ by state.
What it usually does not cover
Even where a state program helps with care services, it often does not pay for room and board. Families may still need to cover housing costs from income, savings or other sources. Ask exactly what is and is not included.
Things that vary
- Income and asset limits for eligibility
- Whether a medical or functional need must be shown
- Waiting lists for waiver programs
- Which communities accept Medicaid, since not all do
- Whether a community accepts Medicaid only after a period of private payment
Medicaid is not the same as Medicare
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older and some younger people with disabilities. Medicare generally does not pay for long-term assisted living. See our guide on whether Medicare pays for assisted living.
Where to confirm the rules
- Your state Medicaid agency
- Your local Area Agency on Aging
- An elder law attorney for questions about assets and eligibility
Next step
A senior living advisor can help you shortlist communities and ask each one about payment options, including whether they accept Medicaid. HavenLine is a referral service and does not provide legal or financial advice or determine eligibility.
Questions
Can I apply for Medicaid after moving into assisted living?
Some people do, but rules differ by state and by community. Ask both the community and your state Medicaid agency before you move.
Does Medicaid pay for memory care?
It depends on the state and program. Ask the specific community and your state agency.
General information only, not financial, legal or insurance advice. Rules, prices and benefits vary by state and by policy. A licensed professional can explain what applies to you.