What is the Medicaid income cap for nursing homes?
In income-cap states, the 2024 special income limit for nursing home Medicaid is $2,829 per month (300% of the SSI federal benefit rate). Income above this generally disqualifies you unless you use a Qualified Income Trust.
What is a Qualified Income Trust or Miller Trust?
A Qualified Income Trust (QIT), also called a Miller Trust, is an irrevocable trust used in income-cap states. You deposit income above the cap into the trust each month, which lets you meet the income test while the trust funds pay toward your care. An attorney should draft it.
What is the difference between income-cap and medically needy states?
Income-cap states apply a hard income limit and require a Miller Trust for those over it. Medically needy (spend-down) states let applicants subtract medical expenses from income to qualify, so no Miller Trust is needed. Rules vary, so check your state.
Do I qualify for Medicaid if I am under the income cap?
Meeting the income test is necessary but not sufficient. You must also pass the asset test (countable assets under about $2,000 for an individual) and meet the medical or functional need for nursing home level care.
Does Canada have a Medicaid income cap?
No. Canada has no Medicaid and no income cap. Publicly funded long-term care is available based on need, and income only scales your capped accommodation co-payment, never disqualifies you.