Nursing Home Medicaid for Individuals in Georgia

As the cost of long-term care continues to rise, many families find themselves asking an important question: How will we afford nursing home care? For individuals in Georgia, Nursing Home Medicaid is often the answer, but understanding how it works, especially when it comes to income, can feel overwhelming.

What Is Nursing Home Medicaid?

Medicaid is a government-funded program that helps cover the cost of long-term care for those who qualify. In Georgia, it is the primary payer for nursing home care.

It is important to know that Medicaid is not entirely free. Once approved, most of a resident’s monthly income must be paid to the nursing home. Medicaid then covers the remaining cost of care.

Understanding the Income Limit

To qualify for Nursing Home Medicaid in Georgia, the income limit is $2,982 per month for an individual.

At first glance, this may seem like a strict cutoff. Many families worry that earning just a little more than this amount means they will not qualify. Fortunately, that is not always the case.

Nursing home care in Georgia is expensive. As mentioned in our recent “How Will We Pay For Long-Term Care” blog, it often exceeds $10,000 per month, and in Metro Atlanta, it can be even higher. Because of these high costs, Medicaid rules allow some flexibility.

In many situations, an individual may still qualify for Medicaid if their income is below the nursing home’s actual monthly cost, even if it exceeds the standard income cap. This is an important distinction and often comes as a relief to families.

What Happens If Income Is Over the Limit?

If someone’s income exceeds $2,982 per month but is still less than the cost of care, there is still a way forward.

A legal tool called a Qualified Income Trust, sometimes referred to as a Miller Trust, can help achieve eligibility.

This type of trust is designed specifically for income, not assets. It helps manage excess income properly so the individual can meet Medicaid requirements while ensuring the nursing home is paid.

While it may feel like an extra step, a Qualified Income Trust is often the key to qualifying for benefits that would otherwise be unavailable. In many cases, this additional hoop to jump through is well worth it.

You Do Not Have to Navigate This Alone

Medicaid rules can be complex, especially during an already stressful time. The good news is that you do not have to figure it out on your own.

At Hurley Elder Care Law, we guide individuals and families through every step of the Medicaid process, helping you understand your options and put a plan in place with confidence.

If you or a loved one needs help navigating Nursing Home Medicaid, we are here for you. Call our office at 404-843-0121 to schedule an appointment at one of our four convenient locations in Atlanta, Duluth, Peachtree City, or Woodstock. Virtual appointments are also available.