Congress is currently considering whether to approve another round of $1,400 stimulus checks. Those checks would be sent to everyone eligible. This includes individuals on Medicaid and in a nursing home or assisted living facility. If another round of stimulus checks go out, it is important to know that nursing home residents are not required to give their checks to their nursing home.
The Federal Trade Commission has previously stated that these stimulus checks belong to the residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities. If a nursing home or assisted living facility is asking for their resident's checks, it is important to contact the state attorney general and the Federal Trade Commission immediately to report it. These checks do not belong to the facility, they belong to the resident.
For individuals who are paying for thier long-term care through Medicaid MassHealth and are receiving a stimulus check, it is important to note that this check must be used in a spend-down if it puts the person above a Medicaid resource limit. The Social Security Administration has said that they will not consider any stimulus checks as income but only for 12 months. If the checks are putting an individual above the limit, the spend down must be done within 12 months of receiving the check or they may lose their eligibility.
Some example of a valid spend down for Medicaid recipients are as follows:
- Making repairs to your household.
- Buying medical equipment.
- Buying household goods or comfort objects.
- Buying new electronics or furniture.
- Make a payment towards a debt.
- See a medical professional like a dentist, dermatologist, or a specialist that is not covered by insurance.
If you are applying for MassHealth Medicaid long-term care, give us a call at 978-657-7437. We can help save you thousands and take the stress of dealing with MassHealth away.
