Medicaid is a critical program that provides healthcare coverage for low-income individuals, seniors, and disabled persons. The income limits to qualify vary by state and type of Medicaid assistance, including Institutional Medicaid (Nursing Homes), Medicaid Waivers (Home and Community-Based Services), and Regular Medicaid for the elderly and disabled.
Even if someone exceeds these income limits, there are ways to qualify, such as spending excess income on medical care or using legal financial tools like Miller Trusts. Some financial planners specialize in helping individuals meet Medicaid requirements through complex financial strategies.
General Medicaid Income Limits for 2025
The income limits depend on the state and type of Medicaid. Below is a breakdown of the Medicaid income limits across different states.
Institutional Medicaid (Nursing Homes)
- General limit: $2,901/month for single applicants
- Married couples (both applying): $5,802/month
- If only one spouse applies: $2,901/month for the applicant
- Exceptions: Some states allow applicants to keep only $35-$50 per month for personal expenses
Medicaid Waivers (Home and Community-Based Services)
- Single applicants: $2,901/month
- Married couples (both applying): $5,802/month
- If only one spouse applies: $2,901/month
Regular Medicaid (Elderly & Disabled)
Income limits vary significantly, ranging from $235/month to $1,795/month for single applicants and $291/month to $2,658/month for married couples.
State-Specific Medicaid Income Limits
Most States (Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington D.C., West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming):
Medicaid Type | Single Applicant | Married (Both Applying) |
---|---|---|
Institutional Medicaid (Nursing Homes) | $2,901/month | $5,802/month |
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS) | $2,901/month | $5,802/month |
Regular Medicaid (Elderly & Disabled) | $235 – $1,795/month | $291 – $2,658/month |
Kansas
- Institutional Medicaid (Nursing Homes): No income limit, but any income over $62/month must go toward care.
- Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): No limit, but income over $2,901/month must go toward care.
- Regular Medicaid (Elderly & Disabled): $475/month for all.
Massachusetts
- Institutional Medicaid (Nursing Homes): No strict limit, but income over $72.80/month goes toward care.
- Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): $2,901/month (single), $5,802/month (married).
- Regular Medicaid (Elderly & Disabled): $1,255/month (single), $1,704/month (married).
Maryland
- Institutional Medicaid (Nursing Homes): Cannot exceed the cost of care.
- Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): $2,901/month (single), $5,802/month (married).
- Regular Medicaid (Elderly & Disabled): $350/month (single), $392/month (married).
Missouri
- Institutional Medicaid (Nursing Homes): All income, except for $50/month, must go toward care.
- Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Varies by waiver type.
- Regular Medicaid (Aged & Disabled): Varies for aged, blind, and disabled individuals.
Other States
Income limits vary by state, with some being more restrictive than others. Each state has specific guidelines that determine eligibility.
Medicaid eligibility rules are complex and vary from state to state. While income limits exist, exceptions, waivers, and legal financial strategies can help individuals qualify. Itโs crucial to check with state Medicaid offices for the most up-to-date eligibility requirements.
FAQs
What is the Medicaid income limit for 2025?
It varies by state and type, with single applicants generally limited to $2,901/month for nursing homes.
Can I qualify for Medicaid if my income is too high?
Yes, some states allow you to spend excess income on medical care to qualify.
Do married couples have higher Medicaid income limits?
Yes, married couples applying together have higher income limits, usually double that of a single applicant.
What happens if my income exceeds Medicaid limits?
You may need to use a trust or spend excess income on medical expenses to qualify.
Are Medicaid income limits the same in all states?
No, income limits vary widely based on state policies and Medicaid programs.