The thought of navigating Florida Medicaid waivers when an older loved one needs care can seem daunting. Medicaid requirements are strict, and the rules are complex. Making it even more difficult, the requirements and eligibility criteria can change.
What changes do families need to know about? This post explores Florida Medicaid eligibility changes.
Florida Medicaid Eligibility Changes
It is important to note that there are changes to regular Medicaid. This post focuses on the changes affecting the following programs:
- Nursing Home Medicaid: This Medicaid program can cover the complete cost of care in a skilled nursing facility for eligible seniors.
- Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS): These waivers can cover costs for services and expenses related to providing care at home.
In the following sections, we will explore changes to income, assets, and spousal impoverishment protection limits.
Changing Medicaid Income Limits
The income limits for these waiver programs change annually. For most of 2024, the monthly income limit for a single individual was $2,829. That limit has increased to $2,901 as of the time of this writing. However, you must also account for the limits on married couples.
For married couples with both spouses needing care, the limit is $5,802, with each spouse having a limit of $2,901. For couples where only one spouse applies, Medicaid only counts the income of the applying spouse. Their income limit is the same as a single individual.
It is also important to remember the Minimum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance (MMMNA) for community spouses. A low-income non-applicant spouse may be eligible to receive some of the applicant spouse’s income. Read this post about Florida MMMNA to learn more.
Florida Medicaid Asset Limits
The asset limits remain largely the same for both individuals and couples applying for Medicaid. Individuals have a $2,000 asset limit, and couples applying together have a cap of $3,000. Things differ for couples in which only one spouse applies for coverage.
The applicant has a limit of $2,000, which is equivalent to the limit for a single individual. However, the community spouse can retain more assets under the Community Spouse Resource Allowance (CSRA). In 2024, this limit was $154,140. It increased to $157,920 in 2025.
Medicaid Planning Considerations
While these changes might seem simple, there is much more to consider during Medicaid planning. You’ll need to understand the difference between countable and exempt assets. Families may also need strategies to handle excess income that puts the senior above the limit. The Medicaid look-back period and spend-down rules can also be important.
Do you need help with Florida Medicaid planning? The elder law experts from the Scott Law Offices are here to help. Reach out now to learn more about Medicaid eligibility and asset protection.
