Medicaid is a state-run program, meaning that the rules can vary from state to state. The general rule however is that an applicant’s income cannot exceed $2,523 a month for 2022. Applicants also cannot have more than $2,000 in assets in most states. 

     States also require applicants to provide the information to prove that they are eligible for benefits. The burden of proof falls on the applicant. Although this may not include all, here are some documents you will need to have when applying for Medicaid. 

• Proof of Income– Pay Stubs, Social Security statements, pensions, income tax returns and other sources of income.
• Bank records– Copies of bank statements for the past five years
• Property– A copy of the deed to any property owned within the past five years and a copy of its most recent tax bill. 
• Retirement Accounts– Statements for the past 5 years on retirement accounts.
• Insurance– Copies of any insurance policies including life, health, and long-term care insurance
• Car Registration– You will need to provide the registration on any care you own.
• Burial arrangements-Copies of any prepaid funeral contracts or deeds to burial plots

      The state could use a database to verify some of this information to make sure it is accurate.

      The state looks back 5 years to determine whether you transferred assets for less than market value when applying for Medicaid. If an applicant is to give away an asset in this period, they may be subjected to a period of ineligibility. 

     Not all assets will be counted against you for Medicaid ineligibility. Your vehicle, personal possessions, residence, and prepaid funeral plans will not count against you. 

    After you begin receiving your benefits you’re not done. You will still be subjected to a yearly review of your income and assets to verify that you are still eligible. This may be electronic verification or require submitting more documentation.