Eligible applicants must:
- Be age 65 or older, or under 65 and unable to work due to a severe disability that is expected to last at least 12 months.
- Have monthly income within allowable limits. Income includes: Social Security, Veterans Benefits, pensions and other retirement benefits, wages (some income can be disregarded). If monthly income exceeds the set amount, the person must meet a deductible based upon the Medically Needy income limits. (Current income limits can be found online.)
- Have resources that are no more than $2,000 for an individual, or $3,000 for a couple. Resources include: cash, bank accounts, second car, retirement accounts, stocks and bonds, and real estate that is not your home. Resources do not include your home, one car, household furnishings, clothing or other personal effects such as jewelry.
This is just a guide. An eligibility worker at the Department of Social Services will assess your individual situation and inform you of your eligibility status.