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Medicaid-Certified Care
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Search 50,000+ Medicare-rated facilities that accept Medicaid for long-term care. Compare quality scores, understand eligibility, and find affordable senior care near you.
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Understanding Medicaid Long-Term Care
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What Medicaid Covers
Medicaid covers nursing home care (skilled nursing facilities) and some assisted living through state waiver programs. Coverage varies by state.
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Eligibility Requirements
Income under state limits, assets under $2,000 (individual) or $3,000 (couple), and medical necessity for nursing home level of care.
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Application Timeline
Medicaid applications typically take 45-90 days. Many facilities accept "pending Medicaid" while your application is processed.
Do I Qualify for Medicaid Long-Term Care?
✓ Income Limits
Most states: $2,982/month (2026) for an individual. "Income cap" states have strict limits; others use "medically needy" pathways allowing higher income with medical expenses.
✓ Asset Limits
$2,000 for individual, $3,000 for couples in most states (2026). Excludes primary home, one vehicle, personal belongings, and pre-paid funeral. Married couples have "spousal impoverishment" protections. A few states set much higher limits—California allows $130,000 (as of January 2026) and New York allows over $30,000.
✓ Medical Need
Must require "nursing home level of care" - help with 2+ activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, eating, etc.) or cognitive impairment requiring supervision.
✓ Citizenship & Residency
U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant, resident of the state where applying. No minimum residency period required.
💡 Over the asset limit?
A "Medicaid spend-down" strategy may help. Consult an elder law attorney about legal ways to qualify, including Medicaid-compliant annuities, funeral trusts, or home modifications.
Find Quality Medicaid Facilities
1
Filter by Medicaid Acceptance
Enter your location and select "Medicaid" as insurance. We'll show facilities certified to accept Medicaid in your state.
2
Compare Quality Ratings
Check Medicare's 5-star ratings for quality, staffing, and health inspections. Don't assume lower-cost means lower-quality—many excellent facilities accept Medicaid.
3
Ask About Medicaid Beds
When you call, ask: "Do you have Medicaid beds available?" and "Do you accept pending Medicaid applications?" Some facilities have limited Medicaid beds or waitlists.
Important State Differences
Medicaid Waiver Programs
Some states offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that cover assisted living and in-home care as alternatives to nursing homes. Ask facilities if they participate in your state's waiver program.
Estate Recovery
After death, states may seek reimbursement from your estate for Medicaid costs. Primary home is protected if spouse or disabled child lives there. Rules vary by state.
Look-Back Period
Medicaid reviews asset transfers for 5 years before application. Gifting money or property during this period can delay eligibility. Plan ahead or consult an elder law attorney.
How to Apply for Medicaid
1. Gather Documents
- Social Security card
- Birth certificate or proof of citizenship
- Bank statements (3-5 years)
- Property deeds
- Insurance policies
- Medical records showing need for care
2. Submit Application
Apply through:
- State Medicaid office
- Healthcare.gov (if your state participates)
- Hospital discharge planner
- Facility admissions coordinator
3. Medical Assessment
State will assess if you meet "nursing home level of care" criteria. Doctor must verify you need help with daily activities or have cognitive impairment.
4. Financial Review
State reviews income and assets. May request additional documents. Process takes 45-90 days. You'll receive written approval or denial with appeal rights.
Need Help Applying?
Contact your state Medicaid office or call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to find free assistance programs in your area. Elder law attorneys can also help navigate complex situations.
Common Medicaid Questions
What if I'm married and my spouse still lives at home?
"Spousal impoverishment" rules protect the at-home spouse. They can keep the home, one car, and significant income/assets (varies by state). The nursing home spouse qualifies for Medicaid based on their portion only.
Does Medicaid cover private rooms?
Usually no—Medicaid covers semi-private rooms (2 beds). Private rooms cost extra unless medically necessary (isolation, infection control). Some facilities offer private rooms with additional private pay.
Can I choose any facility that accepts Medicaid?
Yes, as long as they have a Medicaid bed available and can meet your care needs. You have the right to choose your facility, but availability may be limited in high-demand areas.
What happens to my Social Security and pension?
Most of your income goes to the nursing home as your "patient pay" amount. You keep a small monthly allowance (typically $30-$75) for personal needs like haircuts, clothing, snacks.
Helpful Medicaid Resources
State Medicaid Office
Find your state's Medicaid contact and application portal
Medicaid.gov Contact Info →Eldercare Locator
Free help finding local Medicaid assistance programs
1-800-677-1116
SHIP (State Health Insurance)
Free Medicare/Medicaid counseling in every state
Find Your SHIP Counselor →Find Quality Care Within Your Budget
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