What Is Considered Low Income for Seniors in Nevada?

Seniors are considered low-income in Nevada if they earn less than $914 per month (for aged, blind and disabled Medicaid) or $2,742 per month (for Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services). Both types of Medicaid provide care services that allow you to live safely in your own home. Services vary by program but may include help with activities of daily living (ADLs), supervision, housekeeping, meal preparation and family caregiver respite.

For both types of Medicaid, nearly all sources of income will be considered to determine eligibility. This includes your wages, retirement income, stock dividends, alimony payments and veteran’s benefits (Housebound Allowance and Aid & Attendance excluded).

Both Medicaid programs have an asset limit of $2,000. Your primary residence and vehicle aren’t counted against the limit. Personal belongings and household goods/furnishings are excluded as well. Assets that count toward the limit include bank accounts, investments, real estate aside from your residence and cash (including items that can be converted to cash and used as payment for care).

In addition to income and asset requirements, you’ll undergo a needs assessment to determine if you are medically or functionally eligible for Medicaid. For Nevada’s Medical Assistance to the Aged, Blind and Disabled/Personal Care Services program, it must be determined that care is necessary for you according to a physical or occupational therapist. You may meet this requirement if you need help with your ADLs, including bathing, grooming, getting dressed, mobility and transferring into and out of bed.For HCBS Medicaid, such as Nevada’s Frail Elderly Waiver, seniors must need a nursing facility level of care (NFLOC) and be at risk of nursing home placement within 30 days of their application. You may meet NFLOC if you have difficulty self-administering medication or have medical needs you can’t meet yourself, such as glucose monitoring, wound care or oxygen dependency. Your ability to complete ADLs and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), such as meal preparation, housework, transportation and managing money, will also be considered.