Medicaid Eligibility Calculators
Medicaid for people 65 and older usually has both income and asset limits. It can help with Medicare costs, nursing home care and home care, and each comes with its own rules.
2026 benchmarks
| Measure | One person | Couple |
|---|---|---|
| SSI federal rate | $994/mo | $1,491/mo |
| With $20 disregard | $1,014/mo | $1,511/mo |
| Common asset limit | $2,000 | $3,000 |
| Common long-term care income cap (3 × SSI) | $2,982/mo | Varies |
Many states use higher limits, and some apply stricter rules. Confirm with your state.
Help with Medicare costs
Medicare Savings Programs can pay Part B premiums and, for some people, deductibles and copays. They have their own limits, which are higher than the SSI level.
Nursing home and home care
Nursing facility services are a mandatory benefit. Home and community-based care is usually through waivers, which may have waitlists. Both generally require you to need a certain level of care.
Look-back and spouse protections
States review asset transfers from the past 60 months. Rules also protect a spouse who stays at home, allowing them to keep some income and assets.
Estate recovery
States must seek repayment from the estates of certain people aged 55 and over, with protections for surviving spouses and some relatives. An elder law attorney can advise you.
More help
See home-delivered meals, free rides and the Eldercare Locator. Then estimate your eligibility.
How income is counted for seniors
Non-MAGI rules generally count Social Security and pensions, while ignoring some amounts such as the $20 general disregard. Some states use a medically needy program, where you can subtract medical bills. Others allow income trusts for those above a long-term care cap.
Assets that are often exempt
- Your primary home, subject to equity limits
- One vehicle
- Household goods and personal items
- Certain burial funds and small life insurance policies
Medicare Savings Programs
These include QMB, SLMB and QI. They can pay Part B premiums, and QMB also helps with deductibles and coinsurance. Enrolling can also qualify you for Extra Help with medication costs. Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program can help you for free.
Steps for families
- Get a care assessment from your doctor or agency.
- Gather five years of financial records if long-term care is likely.
- Don't give away assets before getting advice.
- Ask about home care waivers and waitlists early.
Try the free Medicaid eligibility calculator.
