Medicaid Spend-Down Calculator
After a lifetime of working and saving, nursing home costs can wipe out everything. See what you can legally protect - and what strategies can help preserve assets for your spouse and family.
Basic Information
Tell us about your situation
Marital Status
State Category
Understanding Medicaid Spend-Down
Countable vs Exempt Assets
Exempt: Primary home (up to equity limit), one vehicle, personal belongings, prepaid funeral
Countable: Bank accounts, stocks, bonds, IRAs, 401(k)s, second properties, cash value life insurance
Spousal Protections
The "community spouse" (at home) can keep:
• Up to $154,140 in assets (CSRA)
• Monthly income up to $3,853 (MMMNA)
• The primary residence
• One vehicle
Look-Back Period
Medicaid reviews 5 years of financial records (2.5 years in California). Gifts or transfers during this period create penalty periods where Medicaid won't pay for care.
Planning Ahead
The best Medicaid planning happens 5+ years before you need care. Strategies include irrevocable trusts, Medicaid-compliant annuities, and life estate deeds. Consult an elder law attorney.