Medicaid Nursing Home Eligibility in Pennsylvania
2026 income limits, asset limits, and look-back rules
In Pennsylvania, a single applicant can hold up to $2,400 in countable assets to qualify for Medicaid nursing home coverage. There is no income cap — all income above your personal needs allowance goes toward the nursing facility cost.
Quick Asset Eligibility Check for Pennsylvania
Countable assets include: cash, checking/savings, stocks, bonds, second homes, and most investments. Exempt: primary home (if returning), one vehicle, personal belongings, prepaid burial.
Income Rules in Pennsylvania Spend-Down State
Medically needy state. No income cap. Income above personal needs allowance ($45/mo) is patient pay.
Asset Limits in Pennsylvania
| Single applicant — countable assets | $2,400 |
| Community spouse resource allowance — minimum | $29,724 |
| Community spouse resource allowance — maximum | $148,620 |
| Look-back period | 5 years (60 months) |
| Primary home (if planning to return) | Exempt |
| One vehicle | Exempt |
| Personal belongings and household items | Exempt |
| Prepaid burial (irrevocable) | Exempt |
Community spouse resource allowance figures are 2025 federal minimums/maximums — Pennsylvania may set its own within this range. Source: CMS.gov, 2025 spousal protection amounts.
How to Apply for Medicaid Nursing Home Coverage in Pennsylvania
Applications go through Pennsylvania Medicaid (MA).
Gather 5 years of financial records
Bank statements, brokerage accounts, deeds, and documentation of any asset transfers from the past 60 months. Missing records are the most common cause of delays.
Consult an elder law attorney
Medicaid planning before application can legally protect assets for a spouse or heirs. Strategies include spousal asset transfers, annuities, and irrevocable trusts. An elder law attorney costs $2,000–$5,000 but can protect far more.
Submit the application
Apply in person, by mail, or online through Pennsylvania's Medicaid portal. Include the nursing facility's medical assessment confirming the level of care required. Processing takes 45–90 days.
Set up a Miller Trust if needed
Pennsylvania is a spend-down state, so no Miller Trust is needed — your income directly reduces what Medicaid pays each month.