Who is eligible for Medicaid in Massachusetts?
Seniors, pregnant women and disabled individuals may apply for Medicaid. Massachusetts residents with income below the state’s average and who do not exceed the program’s asset limits may qualify for assistance.
The Mass.gov website notes that eligible residents may receive benefits such as doctor visits and prescriptions to manage certain medical conditions. If you anticipate needing medical services in the future and plan to obtain them through Medicaid, when you apply could make a difference.
Applicants must show income and meet asset limits
When applying, residents must provide the sources and amounts of their monthly incomes. The American Council on Aging notes that Medicaid considers all benefits payments as income including Social Security Disability Income. If you receive retirement plan payments or stock dividends, you must also include them in your application.
Medicaid eligibility depends on having a lower income and fewer assets than the average Bay State resident. The program counts how much cash, investments and real estate applicants own. Single seniors over age 65, for example, may not own assets worth more than $2,000. Seniors with assets valued higher than $2,000 may need to apply after spending down or selling some of their assets.
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Seniors may spend down unused assets to qualify
The Medicaid program assists seniors so that they could remain living in their homes. If you plan to use these benefits, making home improvements may help when spending down assets. Acceptable spend-down plans include adding a wheelchair ramp to your home or installing a stair lift. Seniors may also consider paying for their funeral or burial expenses in advance.
Medicaid planning requires reviewing your current income and asset values. Some individuals may spend down their financial assets or sell property to qualify. By planning ahead, your financial circumstances may fall within Medicaid qualification guidelines including the required five-year look-back into a resident’s financial matters.
