Pennsylvania seniors aged 65 and older who meet specific income and asset limits may qualify for coverage under Medicaid. In Pennsylvania, Medicaid is known as Medical Assistance.
Eligibility guidelines for Medical Assistance coverage in Pennsylvania state that seniors must have an income no greater than $2,313 a month for single applicants and $4,626 for married couples applying together. These rates are based on 300 percent of the Social Security Income Federal Benefit Rate. Applicants must also meet asset limits of $2,000 for an individual and $4,000 for a married couple. Assets include cash, bonds, pension payments and stock dividends and exclude personal belongings, household furnishings, one vehicle and a primary place of residence valued at less than $585,000.
In Pennsylvania, Medical Assistance does not cover the cost of assisted living for seniors; however, benefits may be available for seniors who require extra services and support while residing in an assisted living facility.
Seniors who require assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing and personal care may be eligible for funding through the Pennsylvania Community HealthChoices Program. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services administers this newly launched program.
For more information on Medicaid, call the Consumer Service Center at (866) 550-4355 or the Bucks County Assistance Office at (215) 781-3300.
To learn more about the Community HealthChoices program, call (833) 735-4416.