Medicaid Spend-Down Calculator
Calculate assets to spend down for Medicaid eligibility. See exempt asset categories.
Spend-Down Needed
$48,000.00
Asset Limit
$2,000.00
Months to Eligible
29 mo
Asset Spend-Down
| Countable Assets | $50,000.00 |
| Asset Limit | $2,000.00 |
| Excess Assets (Spend-Down) | $48,000.00 |
Income Test
| Monthly Income | $2,500.00 |
| Monthly Medical Expenses | - $800.00 |
| Net Countable Income | $1,700.00 |
Spend-Down Strategies
| Pre-paid funeral/burial | Exempt asset |
| Home improvements (primary residence) | Exempt asset |
| Pay off debts | Reduces countable assets |
| Purchase exempt vehicle | One vehicle exempt |
| Irrevocable funeral trust | Removes from estate |
Use the Medicaid Spend-Down Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.
How It Works
Navigating Medicaid eligibility can be complex, especially with asset limits. Our Medicaid Spend-Down Calculator helps you determine the exact amount of assets you need to spend down to qualify for Medicaid in 2026, considering the projected individual asset limit of $3,000 and the spousal impoverishment resource allowance of up to $154,140. This tool is crucial for strategic financial planning to ensure access to vital long-term care benefits.
The core methodology involves subtracting your countable assets from the applicable Medicaid asset limit for your state and marital status, then factoring in any exempt assets. We apply the formula: (Total Countable Assets - Exempt Assets) - (Medicaid Asset Limit + Spousal Impoverishment Resource Allowance) = Spend-Down Amount. This provides a precise figure for asset reduction required.
When planning your spend-down, prioritize exempt assets like your primary residence (up to $713,000 equity in 2026), one vehicle, and certain personal belongings. A common mistake is transferring assets without legal guidance, which can trigger look-back periods and penalties. Always consult with an elder law attorney to ensure compliance and optimize your spend-down strategy.
Example: Single Individual, Ohio, 2026
- 1 Let's say Maria, a single Ohio resident, has $28,000 in countable assets (cash, investments, second property) and a primary residence valued at $250,000 (exempt). She also has a car worth $15,000 (exempt).
- 2 Her total countable assets are $28,000. Ohio's individual Medicaid asset limit for 2026 is projected to be $3,000. Exempt assets (primary residence, car) are not included in the countable total.
- 3 The calculation is: $28,000 (Countable Assets) - $3,000 (Medicaid Asset Limit) = $25,000.
- 4 Maria needs to spend down $25,000 to become eligible for Medicaid. This amount can be used for qualified expenses like medical bills, home modifications, or establishing an irrevocable funeral trust.
Source: Benefits.gov · Last updated: April 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Medicaid asset limit in 2026?
What assets are exempt from Medicaid?
How do I spend down assets for Medicaid eligibility?
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