Elderly Medicaid Eligibility in Georgia

Navigating Medicaid eligibility for the elderly in Georgia can seem daunting. The application process is often complex, and the detailed requirements for securing coverage, whether for yourself or a loved one, can easily become confusing and overwhelming.

At Senior Planning, we understand how challenging this can be. With extensive experience helping seniors in Georgia qualify for Medicaid, our dedicated team is ready to offer expert support at every stage, helping make the process clear, manageable, and as stress-free as possible.

Medicaid Coverage Eligibility Requirements for the Elderly in Georgia

It’s important to understand the Georgia Medicaid rules and regulations. Some important criteria to consider when applying for Medicaid are the asset and income limits. Please note that these numbers are subject to change.

Georgia Medicaid Asset Limit

The asset limit can vary according to the marital status of the applicant and if one or both spouses are applying. These numbers may also change from year to year.

• Single applicant is $2,000.

• Married, where both spouses are applying, is $3,000. For regular Medicaid, it is also $3,000 if only one spouse is applying.

• Married, where only one spouse is applying, is $2,000 for the applicant and $157,920 for the non-applicant spouse. 

Some of the assets that are not calculated in this limit are one’s primary home, a vehicle, personal belongings, and designated burial trusts. All other financial resources are counted toward the limit. In the case of married individuals, all assets are considered jointly owned, regardless of whether one or both spouses are applying. 

Georgia Medicaid has a 5-year look-back rule, where Medicaid assesses any transfers made 60 months before applying. This ensures that no assets were gifted or sold under fair market value to meet the asset limit criteria. This does not apply to Regular Medicaid. 

Medicaid Income Limit in Georgia (as of 2025)

What are the income guidelines for Medicaid in Georgia?

Medicaid in Georgia has set income limits that applicants must meet to qualify.

For married couples, if only one spouse is applying for Nursing Home Medicaid or Home and Community Based Services, only the applicant's income is counted. The non-applicant spouse may be entitled to a Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance from the applicant spouse to prevent spousal impoverishment. 

Income included in the Georgia Medicaid seniors eligibility income chart shown below includes most forms of income, such as social security, alimony payments, pensions, IRA withdrawals, and employment wages.

 

Strategies for Exceeding Income or Asset Limits

If the applicant's income or assets exceed the Medicaid limit, here are some considerations to still qualify:

• Medically Needy Pathway: Applicants can spend their excess funds on medical expenses until they reach the set limit. 

• Qualified Income Trusts: Excess funds can be transferred to a trust, where they can be used to cover care costs. Any remaining funds after death are reimbursed to the state. This is also referred to as Miller Trusts. 

• Asset Spend Down: If your assets are too high, Georgia Medicaid spend down rules allow you to spend them on things that Medicaid considers 'approved expenses'. These can include expenses such as medical bills, home modifications for accessibility, or other care costs. You may wish to consult with an attorney concerning your Medicaid application, since Senior Planning Services does not provide any legal advice or services.

How To Apply for Medicaid for Seniors in Georgia

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 Georgia 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 Your 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 Georgia

Medicaid reimbursements help make long-term care more attainable for many seniors. Once approved for nursing home care, individuals can choose from various facilities that fit their needs, considering factors such as quality of healthcare services, available social activities, clean and safe environments, and convenient locations close to loved ones. 

Not every nursing home in Georgia accepts Medicaid coverage, and availability may be limited, so it is essential to confirm acceptance and openings before making a decision.

Assisted Living in Georgia

Medicaid offers assistance to seniors in Georgia who need support in assisted living. For individuals who require some daily help but not the full level of care provided in a nursing home, assisted living can be a suitable choice. This option enables seniors to remain either at home or in a community setting, with a caregiver available to help with tasks such as light housekeeping, personal care, and companionship.

Coverage for assisted living may be available through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) or the Aged, Blind, and Disabled Medicaid program. To qualify, applicants must meet both the financial and functional requirements of these programs.

Get Approved: Georgia Medicaid Nursing Home Eligibility Made Easy

Understanding Medicaid’s requirements in Georgia is a crucial step in accessing the care and coverage seniors need. With clear information and careful planning, families can navigate the system with confidence. Whether the goal is nursing home coverage, home care, or assisted living support, this knowledge empowers families to make informed decisions for their loved ones.

With Senior Planning Services, you can be adequately prepared for applications with the proper documentation and information about all available long-term care options. Reach out to Senior Planning for a free consultation. Proactive Medicaid planning can give you and your loved ones peace of mind, proper long-term care, and financial security.

FAQs About Medicaid Eligibility for Seniors in Georgia

What are the Georgia Medicaid spend-down rules?

The Georgia Medicaid spend down rules allow applicants with income above the limit to qualify by paying excess income toward medical expenses until they reach eligibility.

What are the Medicaid recovery rules in Georgia?

Under Medicaid recovery rules in Georgia, the state may recover costs from a recipient’s estate to repay long-term care expenses after death.

What are the eligibility requirements for Medicaid in Georgia?

Eligibility requirements for Medicaid in Georgia include meeting income and asset limits, along with medical need criteria. Senior Planning Services can guide you through the Georgia Medicaid application and help you understand how these requirements apply.

Am I eligible for Medicaid in Georgia?

Eligibility for Georgia Medicaid depends on factors like income, assets, age, and level of care needed. Senior Planning Services helps families review Georgia Medicaid income limits and long-term care requirements to see if they qualify.

Did Georgia Medicaid income limits increase recently?

Yes, Georgia Medicaid income limits are updated periodically. It’s important to check the most recent figures to see if you now qualify.

What is Georgia Medicaid long-term care eligibility?

Georgia Medicaid long-term care eligibility is based on financial limits and a medical assessment showing the need for nursing home or in-home care. Senior Planning Services provides expert guidance to help seniors navigate this process.