09/20/2026
Medicaid’s $162,660 Spouse Protection Limit
Navigating nursing home care for a loved one can be overwhelming—especially when it comes to protecting your family's financial future. Under current federal guidelines, an at-home spouse can retain between $32,500 and $162,660 in countable assets while their partner receives nursing home care. The exact figure depends on your state, and this allowance is set as of the resource assessment date when care begins. Fortunately, your primary residence, one vehicle, household essentials, and prepaid funeral arrangements are typically excluded from this tally. Many families use approved spend-down strategies—such as paying off debt or making necessary repairs—to stay compliant, since gifting assets or transferring property below market value can trigger Medicaid’s five-year lookback and penalty period. For those with excess savings, a Medicaid-compliant annuity can convert those funds into a steady stream of income for the at-home spouse, as long as it meets specific requirements. My focus is always on helping you protect what matters most and organize your wealth with intention, so you can approach these life transitions with clarity and peace of mind.