Connecticut Medicaid Nursing Home Eligibility

Understanding Medicaid nursing home eligibility for seniors in Connecticut can feel overwhelming. The complex application process and intricate details required in applying for senior Medicaid coverage for yourself or a loved one's behalf can be confusing and frustrating.

At Senior Planning, we recognize the challenges involved. With years of experience, our efficient team is here to provide expert guidance every step of the way, ensuring this process is as straightforward and hassle-free as possible. 

Medicaid Coverage Eligibility Requirements for Seniors

Long-term care in Connecticut with Medicaid requires the senior applicant to be a U.S. citizen, a legal resident of Connecticut, and fit the set income and asset limit. Outlined below is the HUSKY asset and income guidelines as of 2025, but it is subject to change. 

Asset Limit

Medicaid long-term care programs in Connecticut have distinct financial eligibility criteria that may vary based on marital status.  

A single applicant has an asset limit of $1,600 per person with a $75 monthly personal needs allowance (PNA). In the case where only one spouse is applying, the non-applicant spouse has a further limit of $157,920. However, for the Aged Blind and Disabled Medicaid program, a married senior has an asset limit of $2,400, whether one or both spouses are applying.  

This asset limit is calculated by adding a person's countable assets. This includes bank accounts, retirement accounts, stocks, bonds, and cash. It does not include a primary residence, personal property such as household items or jewelry, one vehicle, or life insurance.  

Additionally, Medicaid has a 5-year look-back rule where all transfers from the previous 60 months are assessed to ensure that nothing was gifted or sold to meet the Medicaid asset allowance in CT. Any transfers made are considered to have violated this rule and may face a penalty period of Medicaid ineligibility. 

Income Limit

In addition to the asset limit that Medicaid sets, there is an income limit.  

What is the income limit for Husky in CT? For Institutional/Nursing Home Medicaid, there is no set limit. However, nearly all of the applicant's monthly income must go towards medical bills, except for a $75 monthly allowance.

 

 

What counts as income? The HUSKY income guidelines as of 2025 consider most forms of income in the set limit, including employment wages, pension payments, Social Security income, alimony payments, and IRA withdrawals.

Strategies for Exceeding Income or Asset Limits

Even if the applicant's income or assets exceed Medicaid limits, there are other options to consider to still qualify. 

1. Medically Needy Pathway: Individuals with an income exceeding the Medicaid limit can still qualify by spending the excess on medical expenses until they reach the required amount.

2. Asset Spend Down: Applicants with assets above the allowed limit can reduce their countable resources by using them for approved expenses, such as medical bills, home modifications (like installing a ramp or chair lift), or prepaid funeral arrangements. Any transactions should be recorded to ensure they comply with Medicaid regulations. 

3. Pooled Income Trust: Individuals can deposit excess funds into a trust account so that they can benefit from their assets and still qualify. This is managed by non-profit, charitable organizations, allowing the individual to use the funds for their living expenses, while any remaining funds will be distributed for charitable purposes upon their death.

 

1. Determine Your Coverage Needs: Choosing one of the three Medicaid plans is the first step in this process. These programs include Nursing Home Medicaid, Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, or Aged Blind and Disabled Medicaid/HUSKY C.
2. Determine the Requirements: After choosing a plan that suits your needs, the second step is seeing if you are financially eligible and fit the requirements outlined for each program.
3. Gather Necessary Documents: There are various required documents for Medicaid in Connecticut that verify identity, income, assets, and medical needs. Some of these documents include:
   • Identification such as a government ID, driver's license, or passport
   • Social Security card
   • Quarterly statements of all your bank accounts, retirement accounts, and investments
   • Proof of asset ownership
   • Proof of income documents
   • All expenses
   • Health insurance cards
   • Nursing home/assisted living/home care application and administration if applicable
4. Complete the Application: Fill out the form carefully and accurately, either online through ConneCT or on a hard copy at your local Department of Social Services office.
5. Submit Your Application: Send in your completed application online and all supporting documents. It is recommended to double-check everything before submitting because missing or incorrect information can cause delays or a decline.

Choosing a Nursing Home Covered by Medicaid in Connecticut

The cost of nursing home care can be significant, but in Connecticut, Medicaid reimbursement for nursing homes makes these living spaces more accessible for seniors. Once approved for Connecticut nursing homes with Medicaid rates, individuals can select from a range of facilities that align with their needs. Some other considerations include:

• Healthcare Services: Are the medical staff and caregivers equipped to address your medical needs?

• Social Activities: Does the facility provide any social programs and entertainment?

• Facility Standards: Are the staff friendly, and are the facilities well kept?

• Location: Is the nursing home situated close to family and friends?

Please note that not all nursing homes in Connecticut accept Medicaid or have availability, so it is important to check before.

Assisted Living in Connecticut

Medicaid provides support for seniors in Connecticut in assisted living situations. For those who need a little extra help without the intensive care of a nursing home, assisted living may be an option. Assisted living allows the applicant to remain at home or in a community home by introducing a caregiver who can help with daily living tasks, from light housework to companionship services. 

Assisted living can be subsidized through Home and Community-Based Services (HBCS) or Aged Blind and Disabled Medicaid. Applicants are required to fit the financial and functional criteria set for each program. 

Get Approved: Connecticut Medicaid Nursing Home Eligibility Made Easy

Navigating Medicaid’s medical insurance for senior citizens in Connecticut can be a complicated and confusing journey. At Senior Planning, we are here to support you throughout the entire process, from understanding the eligibility requirements to filling out the necessary application forms, ensuring you secure the right care for your needs.

If you are just starting to explore your options or feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of Medicaid, Senior Planning can help you. We provide expert guidance with a personalized approach to ensure you get the best.

Take the first step towards ensuring your loved one receives the care they need and deserve by reaching out to us for a free consultation today.