Who Qualifies for Assisted Living Financial Assistance in Pennsylvania?

Qualifications for assisted living financial assistance in Pennsylvania depend on factors such as an individual’s age, their income and their economic assets, plus how much physical assistance they might need. As a general rule, anyone who is at least 55 years old and requires daily assistance with tasks of bathing, dressing, medication management and meal preparation could qualify. Individuals who qualify must also prove they reside in a licensed assisted living facility and do not receive medical care services provided in a private home.

These financial assistance programs support those who need assistance paying for the cost of living in an assisted living facility. The economic assistance can be used at any licensed assisted living facility in Pennsylvania as long as the facility meets the state’s criteria for participation in the program. Payments are received in an ongoing manner for as long as is needed and qualifications are usually revisited on an annual basis.

Applying for assisted living financial assistance in Pennsylvania is fairly straightforward. If you are no longer able to age in place at your private home and require an assisted living facility, cost is often a significant factor. There are several agencies who aim to make the transition as smooth as possible for you. Your first step is to contact your local Area Agency on Aging. Pennsylvania currently has 64 agencies in this organization, helping seniors aged 60 and older. The Area Agency on Aging can provide information on the application process and eligibility requirements.

You will want to have your tax return, bank statements and medical records handy when applying for financial assistance for assisted living. This is so you can provide proof of income, verification of your assets and validation of the medical need for being in an assisted living residence (ALR). Qualifications may vary, but there are set state limits and maximums which can’t be exceeded.

Medicaid (known as Medical Assistance in Pennsylvania) and Medicare are the most popular forms of financial assistance for seniors and low-income individuals. Unfortunately, in Pennsylvania, they don’t cover the costs of assisted living. As a result, most seniors will apply for Social Security Insurance (SSI). If you have one or all of these, additional assistance may still be available, but the amount will fluctuate based upon the other benefits you’re receiving.The State Supplemental Payment Program is another option to consider, in addition to the three mentioned above, but you must apply for SSI first. If you’re a veteran and receive a pension, you might look into the Aid and Attendance benefit, which does cover assisted living costs. Seniors receiving long-term care insurance may also be able to use that to pay for a portion of their monthly bills. If you have any questions or want to explore other options for assistance, you can look at the resources specifically available in Pennsylvania for assisted living help.