What Is the Minimum Net Worth for Medicaid?
Medicaid does not set a single nationwide minimum net worth. Instead, it uses strict asset limits that vary by state and program. For most long-term care Medicaid applicants, the individual asset limit is often around $2,000, though some states use higher limits.
How Medicaid Counts Assets and Net Worth
Medicaid counts countable assets, including bank accounts, stocks, and real estate other than a primary home. The applicant’s net worth is calculated by subtracting allowable debts from total assets. Certain assets, such as a primary residence and a vehicle, may be exempt or excluded from the calculation.
Income, Spend-Down Rules, and State Variation
Even if assets exceed the limit, applicants may qualify through a spend-down process by paying medical bills until assets fall below the threshold. Income limits also apply, and rules differ by state. For current state-specific limits and program details, see the official Medicaid overview at https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/coverage/.
