New York · NY Medicaid MLTC / Assisted Living Program (ALP)
Medicaid for Nursing Homes in New York (2026)
Medicaid in New York can pay for skilled nursing home care — including room, board, and medical services — when applicants meet financial limits and nursing-facility level-of-care requirements. Use our free screener below, then verify details with NY Medicaid MLTC / Assisted Living Program (ALP) caseworkers.
State helpline: 1-800-342-9871
Medicaid Nursing Home Requirements in New York
Income limit
~$1,825/mo
Asset limit (individual)
~$30,130
Look-back period
60 months
Program
NY Medicaid MLTC / Assisted Living Program (ALP)
- Medicaid in New York covers skilled nursing facility room, board, and care for eligible residents — unlike assisted living, where housing is usually private pay.
- NY Medicaid MLTC / Assisted Living Program (ALP) requires financial eligibility and a clinical level-of-care determination (typically nursing-facility level).
- Countable assets must generally be at or below $30,130 for an individual ($30,130 for couples) — with spousal impoverishment protections in many cases.
- Transfers of assets during the 60-month look-back period may trigger a penalty period before Medicaid nursing home coverage begins.
- Managed Long Term Care (MLTC) plans cover services in the community for eligible seniors.
How to apply for nursing home Medicaid
- Gather financial documents: bank statements, property deeds, income verification, and insurance policies.
- Apply for New York Medicaid through your county or state human services office (many states offer online applications).
- Complete a level-of-care assessment — New York must confirm nursing-facility or waiver-level need.
- Choose a Medicaid-certified nursing home that accepts NY Medicaid MLTC / Assisted Living Program (ALP) residents.
- Call New York ADRC/Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-342-9871 for free application help.
Federal Medicaid rules allow states to seek estate recovery for nursing home costs paid after age 55. A primary home may be protected while a spouse or dependent lives there — verify current New York rules with an elder law attorney.
Compare CMS nursing home star ratings in New York, Buffalo or Rochester before choosing a Medicaid-certified facility.
No phone number required. This screening tool is 100% free and private. Results are educational only — not legal or financial advice.
Assisted living & waiver programs
Nursing home Medicaid covers room and board in skilled nursing facilities. Assisted living is different — NY Medicaid MLTC / Assisted Living Program (ALP) may cover care services in participating waiver settings, but housing is often private pay.
- • New York has higher asset limits than most states for Medicaid applicants.
- • Managed Long Term Care (MLTC) plans cover services in the community for eligible seniors.
- • The Assisted Living Program (ALP) serves nursing-home eligible individuals in ALFs.
- • Spousal impoverishment rules may protect additional assets for a community spouse.
New York Medicaid Nursing Home FAQs
Does Medicaid pay for nursing homes in New York?▾
Yes — New York Medicaid (NY Medicaid MLTC / Assisted Living Program (ALP)) covers skilled nursing facility care for eligible residents, including room and board when clinical and financial criteria are met. This differs from assisted living, where housing is typically private pay. Contact New York ADRC at 1-800-342-9871 for application help.
What is the Medicaid nursing home income limit in New York?▾
The typical individual income screening limit for New York Medicaid long-term care is approximately $1,825/month. Limits are updated annually — confirm with your state Medicaid office before applying.
What is the Medicaid nursing home asset limit in New York?▾
Countable assets are generally limited to about $30,130 for an individual and $30,130 for a couple in New York. A primary home, one vehicle, and personal belongings are often excluded. Spousal impoverishment rules may allow a community spouse to keep additional assets.
What is the Medicaid look-back period in New York?▾
New York follows the federal 60-month Medicaid look-back period. Asset transfers below fair market value during this window may trigger a penalty period before nursing home Medicaid coverage begins. Consult an elder law attorney before gifting property or restructuring assets.
How do I qualify for Medicaid nursing home care in New York?▾
You must meet three pillars: (1) income at or below ~$1,825/mo, (2) countable assets within limits, and (3) a state-approved level-of-care assessment confirming nursing-facility need. NY Medicaid MLTC / Assisted Living Program (ALP) requires financial eligibility and a clinical level-of-care determination (typically nursing-facility level).
How do I apply for Medicaid nursing home in New York?▾
Gather financial documents: bank statements, property deeds, income verification, and insurance policies. Apply for New York Medicaid through your county or state human services office (many states offer online applications). Complete a level-of-care assessment — New York must confirm nursing-facility or waiver-level need. Choose a Medicaid-certified nursing home that accepts NY Medicaid MLTC / Assisted Living Program (ALP) residents. Call New York ADRC/Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-342-9871 for free application help.
Does Medicaid pay for assisted living in New York?▾
NY Medicaid MLTC / Assisted Living Program (ALP) may cover care services in participating assisted living or waiver settings, but room and board is often still private pay. Use our checker above for a preliminary screening — nursing home Medicaid has broader room-and-board coverage.