New Jersey Medicaid, also called NJ FamilyCare, is a state and federally funded health insurance program available to residents unable to afford some or all of their medical bills. It covers a variety of essential services ranging from preventive health screenings to emergency hospital care as well as prescriptions, medical equipment and nursing home care.
Regular Medicaid and Medicaid for the Aged, Blind and Disabled are income-cap programs open to SSI recipients and certain residents with limited income and resources. Individuals who are blind, disabled or aged 65 or older may qualify if they meet the following requirements:
- Single applicants must earn no more than $1,041 per month
- Couples must have a joint income of no more than $1,409 per month
- Countable assets may not exceed $4,000 for individuals or $6,000 for couples
Institutional Medicaid is available to residents who require nursing home care as determined by an independent assessment. The following income and asset limits apply to this program:
- For individuals, the monthly income cap is 300% of the federal benefit rate or $2,313
- For couples who both need nursing home care, the limit doubles to $4,626
- Assets are limited to $2,000 for single applicants and $3,000 for couples
If one spouse chooses not to apply for Medicaid, they can claim up to $3,160.50 of their partner’s income as a monthly needs allowance. They may also retain 50% of joint assets worth up to $126,420. Essential household items, personal belongings and major assets, including a home worth up to $878,000, are also exempt.
Seniors who don’t meet these limits may still qualify for coverage if they use excess income for medical care. Seniors may also divert excess funds to a
qualified income trust since assets held in the account can only be used for certain health-related expenses.
Seniors can check their eligibility or
apply for NJ FamilyCare online. Paper applications can be submitted in person or mailed to the
Cumberland County Division of Social Services at 275 N. Delsea Dr., Vineland, NJ 08360. Residents may call (800) 701-0710 for more information.
Managed Long Term Services and Supports New Jersey’s
Managed Long Term Services and Supports is a Comprehensive Medicaid waiver program that gives seniors an alternative to nursing home care. This state benefit is available to seniors who
qualify for institutional Medicaid based on their need for assistance with at least three activities of daily living. Eligible county residents can choose from several managed care providers and receive services at home or in an assisted living facility. The program includes full health care benefits, case management, delivered meals, assisted living, nursing home care and emergency response systems.
For more information or to apply for MLTSS services, contact the
Cumberland County Office on Aging and Disabled at (856) 453-2220.