Worcester Senior AdvisorWhat is the MassHealth asset limit for nursing home care in 2026?
MassHealth's countable asset limit for an individual is $2,000 in 2026, and a married couple's community spouse may keep between $32,532 and $162,660.
The home may be excluded in some cases, subject to a $1,130,000 home equity limit.
How much income can a MassHealth nursing home resident keep?
A personal needs allowance of $72.80 a month in 2026; most of the rest of the resident's income goes toward the cost of care, after any allowance for a spouse at home.
The spouse at home can receive a monthly maintenance needs allowance of between $2,705 and $4,066.50.
What is the MassHealth look-back period?
Five years: MassHealth reviews asset transfers made in the 60 months before a long-term care application, and transfers for less than fair value can cause a period of ineligibility.
Get advice from an elder law attorney before moving assets.
What is the Frail Elder Waiver?
A MassHealth program for people 65 or older (or 60 to 64 with a disability) who need a nursing-home level of care but want to stay in the community, with income at or below $2,982 a month and assets of $2,000 or less in 2026.
It does not cover assisted living, group homes or rest homes.
What is Senior Care Options?
A voluntary MassHealth plan for people 65 and older with MassHealth Standard that combines Medicare and MassHealth benefits with a care team, at no extra cost for eligible members.
Frail Elder Waiver participants 65 or older can enroll in SCO and keep waiver services.
Where do we apply for MassHealth?
Apply through MassHealth (Customer Service 1-800-841-2900); the local Aging Services Access Point and SHINE counselors can help families understand the options, and an elder law attorney can plan the timing.
Apply early, because long-term care applications take time.
Can a parent keep the house and qualify for MassHealth?
Often for a time: the home can be excluded while a spouse or certain relatives live there or if the resident intends to return, but the home equity limit is $1,130,000 in 2026 and MassHealth can seek estate recovery later.
An elder law attorney can explain the options for a specific family.
Does MassHealth pay for home care?
Yes, for eligible members: MassHealth covers home health, personal care attendant services and adult day health, and the Frail Elder Waiver adds services for people who need a nursing-home level of care.
The Aging Services Access Point helps with the clinical assessment for waiver services.
