Assisted Living

Payor Sources

Medicaid

Medicaid is a State program that will pay most costs for people with limited income and assets. Eligibility varies by State, so check your State's requirements to learn if you are eligible. Medicaid will pay only for services provided in a Medicaid-certified facility. For more information about Medicaid payments, contact your State's Medicaid office.

Personal Resources

Residents who are ineligible for Medicaid pay for Assisted Living privately. Special consideration should be given to find a facility certified to provide Medicaid services if there is any chance that the resident will deplete their funds, and may run the risk of being asked to move to a Medicaid eligible facility.
Service levels are established prior to moving into an Assisted Living Facility and should be reevaluated and changed as appropriate. Each resident is billed according to his or her level of service requirements.

Medicare

Many people have the false impression that Medicare will pay for any Long Term Care needs that arise after the age of 65. Actually, Medicare only pays for acute episodes and the guidelines for Medicare eligibility are very limited (see Skilled Nursing Care). Medicare never pays for Assisted Living services.