Yes—Medicaid pays for rides to covered medical care when you have no other reasonable way to get there. This Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) benefit can include bus passes, mileage pay, taxis/TNCs, wheelchair vans, or stretcher cars—whichever is the least costly appropriate mode for your needs. Here’s what’s covered and how to book. eCFR+1 Disclaimer: This … Read more
Appealing a Medicaid denial is time-sensitive—but very doable. Most people can request a state fair hearing and, if they act fast, keep benefits during the appeal. Your exact deadline comes from federal rules and your state’s notice. This guide shows the steps, scripts, and timelines to use. Legal Information Institute+1 Disclaimer: This guide is general … Read more
Medicare pays for short-term skilled care, not day-in, day-out help with bathing, dressing, or supervision. That’s where Medicaid steps in. Medicaid is the nation’s primary payer for long-term services and supports, funding nursing homes and in-home/community care when you qualify. Here’s how the two programs actually work together in 2025. MedicareMedicaid Disclaimer: This is general … Read more
Yes—many adults 60+ on Social Security or SSI qualify for SNAP. For senior households, you usually only need to meet the net-income test, can deduct $35+ in monthly medical costs, and face no shelter cap. Below, see the 2025 limits, 2026 updates, and exact steps to apply. Food and Nutrition Service+1 Disclaimer: This article is … Read more
HEAP (also called LIHEAP) helps older adults pay home energy bills, handle energy emergencies (like shutoff notices or an empty oil tank), and—in some states—get cooling help or minor energy-related repairs. You apply through your local agency, and eligibility is based on income, with many states prioritizing households with seniors. Administration for Children and Families+1 … Read more
**Section 8 pays rent. Medicaid pays for health care and certain housing-related services (like deposits, utilities, and tenancy support)—**not ongoing rent—except in narrow state waiver pilots that can cover short-term rent for up to six months. You can (and often should) use both programs together. eCFR Bottom line: Use Section 8 for monthly rent; look … Read more
If you’re trying to keep care at home, Medicaid can be a lifeline—but what it covers depends on which Medicaid path you use. This guide breaks down, in plain English, what’s always covered, what’s optional, and what’s available through home- and community-based services (HCBS) so you can plan care with confidence. Quick take: Home health … Read more
“There’s the bill… and then there’s the plan.” A private nursing-home room now often tops six figures per year. Many families panic, spend everything, and only then ask about Medicaid. You don’t have to do it that way. With the right, legal Medicaid planning strategies, you can protect a spouse at home, preserve critical assets, … Read more
2025 at a Glance: What Changed? ⚠️ Heads up on rounding: HHS notes each program (e.g., Medicaid, SNAP) sets its own rounding rules and what income counts. Your state may post slightly different rounded limits. Always check the state Medicaid page. (ASPE) How Medicaid Income Limits Work (fast primer) 2025 Quick-Look Charts (48 states + … Read more
Since the Affordable Care Act (ACA) ushered in Medicaid expansion in 2014, most U.S. states have extended coverage to low-income adults up to 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL) (KFF, UnitedHealthcare). While this broadens eligibility, several states provide additional benefits, enhanced coverage options, or legal protections—making their programs particularly noteworthy. This post explores: Understanding … Read more