What Is Considered Low Income for Seniors in Maryland?

Date Updated: July 26, 2024

Written by:

Rachel Lustbader

Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.

Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers

Seniors in Maryland are considered low income if they have an income of $12,880 per year or less, according to Federal Poverty Guidelines. The United States census shows that 11.4% of the population fits into this category. The state and federal governments offer several programs that are intended to improve the lives of low-income seniors.

Medicaid Income Limits

For seniors, as well as the blind and disabled, the income limit for Medicaid benefits is $3,399 per month. If seniors don’t qualify for general coverage, there are waiver programs that offer assistance with services such as home health care, personal care, transportation and medical equipment. Certain Medicaid waivers might have different income requirements, including limits on the number of assets a beneficiary can have. Other programs in Maryland that are targeted at low-income residents may have additional requirements.

Other Low-Income Programs in Maryland

Medicaid is not the only benefit that seniors who are financially struggling can take advantage of in Maryland. The following table provides some information about state programs that are targeted at low-income seniors:

Program	Income Limit	Benefit
Maryland Energy Assistance	$1,982	This program helps residents catch up with their energy bills and provides weatherization services.
Low Income Household Water Assistance	$3,324	Water assistance offers up to $2,000 for seniors who need help paying their water or wastewater bills.
SNAP	$2,265	The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps seniors pay for groceries.
Transportation Assistance Program	Varies by location	This program provides rides for seniors in Maryland who don't own a vehicle and can't access public transportation.