A guide for seniors, families & caregivers — Updated 2026
If you or a loved one is 65 or older and living in Louisiana, Medicaid can be a lifeline — covering nursing home care, in-home assistance, doctor visits, and more. But navigating Louisiana’s Medicaid rules can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down who qualifies, what the income and asset limits are, and exactly how to apply.
What Is Louisiana Medicaid for Seniors?
Louisiana Medicaid is a joint federal and state program administered by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH). For seniors aged 65 and older, Medicaid can cover a wide range of services — from routine medical care to long-term nursing facility stays. There are several Medicaid pathways available depending on your health needs, income, and living situation.
Get the Complete Medicaid Guide for Seniors →
The most commonly used programs for Louisiana seniors include:
- Louisiana Medicaid (Standard/MAGI-based) — for low-income seniors who meet income thresholds
- Long-Term Care Medicaid — for seniors who need nursing home or institutional care
- Community Choices Waiver (CCW) — for seniors who need nursing-level care but wish to remain at home
- Elderly and Disabled Adult (EDA) Waiver — home and community-based services for eligible seniors
Louisiana Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors (2026)
Income limits vary depending on which Medicaid program you are applying for. Below are the key thresholds for 2026:
| Program | Income Limit (Individual) | Asset Limit (Individual) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Medicaid (65+) | $1,255/month | $2,000 |
| Long-Term Care / Nursing Home | $2,829/month | $2,000 |
| Community Choices Waiver | $2,829/month | $2,000 |
| Elderly & Disabled Adult Waiver | $2,829/month | $2,000 |
Note: Married couples have different asset limits. A community spouse (the spouse not receiving care) may retain up to approximately $154,140 in assets in 2026. Always verify current figures with the Louisiana Department of Health or a Medicaid planning professional.
What Assets Are Counted — and What Are Exempt?
Not everything you own counts against Medicaid’s asset limit. Countable assets include bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and most real estate beyond your primary home. Exempt assets typically include:
- Your primary home (if you or your spouse lives there, or you intend to return)
- One vehicle used for transportation
- Personal belongings and household furnishings
- Prepaid funeral and burial arrangements up to certain limits
- Term life insurance with no cash value
Louisiana Medicaid Eligibility Requirements for Seniors
To qualify for Louisiana Medicaid as a senior, you generally must meet all of the following criteria:
- Age: 65 years or older (or disabled/blind individuals of any age)
- Residency: Must be a Louisiana resident and a U.S. citizen or qualifying immigrant
- Income: Must fall at or below the income limit for the specific program
- Assets: Countable assets must not exceed $2,000 for an individual
- Level of Care (for waiver programs): Must require nursing-facility-level care as determined by a clinical assessment
How to Apply for Louisiana Medicaid as a Senior
- Gather your documents — You will need proof of age, identity, Louisiana residency, income (Social Security statements, pension letters), and asset information (bank statements, property records).
- Choose your application method — You can apply online through Louisiana’s Medicaid portal, by mail, or in person at your local Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) office.
- Complete the application — Fill out the Medicaid application completely and accurately. Incomplete forms
Last Updated on 15 October 2026 by ingmin