What is a Medicaid spend-down plan?

A Medicaid spend-down plan is a strategy used in Washington State in elder law that allows someone to qualify for Medicaid coverage even if their income exceeds the program’s income limits. To qualify, the individual must arrange for their monthly income to fall below the limit by spending down their excess income on health care costs. This involves using the additional income they have to pay for medical bills, insurance premiums, and prescriptions. The excess income from the spending down of these medical costs helps the individual qualify for Medicaid coverage, allowing them to access health care services that would otherwise be unaffordable. In turn, this helps them to stay healthier and remain independent for longer. By taking advantage of a Medicaid spend-down plan, individuals in Washington State can receive financial assistance for medical costs and still maintain independence outside of a nursing home.

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What is a Medicaid spend-down plan?

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