New Yorkers who have limited financial income may receive low-cost or free medical assistance through the NYS Medicaid State Plan. It can help to pay for care in a nursing home or through home health agencies, and it also provides seniors with the medical equipment, transportation and supplies necessary to ensure quality of life.
To qualify, you must be age 65 or older, a resident of the state of New York, a U.S. national citizen or have satisfactory immigration status. To meet financial requirements, single seniors’ income must be $842 per month or less, and couples must have an income of less than $1,233 per month.
Even if your income is a bit over the limit, you may still be eligible for Medicaid with the Medicaid Excess Income program, also known as the spend-down or surplus-income program. The amount of excess income is similar to a deductible; once your medical bills meet the requirements for a particular month, Medicaid pays your additional medical bills for the rest of the month.
The Medicaid agency usually has 45 days to process your application, and if the application requires a disability determination, the agency can take 90 days. Once eligibility has been decided, you will receive notification in the mail with further instructions.
NY Assisted Living Program (ALP) is a waiver that pays for the services of licensed assisted living residences for individuals who require a high level of care, but not so intensive that nursing home care is necessary. Services paid by ALP include personal care, room and board, housekeeping, recreational activities and personal emergency response services. This program is open to Medicaid-eligible and ineligible individuals.
To apply for Medicaid, call (855) 355-5777, apply online or visit the local office in your area.