Breaking News! Personal Needs Allowance for Nursing Home Residents Increased!

          Effective July 1, 2014, a bill was passed by the Florida Legislature, increasing the Personal Needs Allowance (PNA) for nursing home residents. The PNA, per individual, will increase from $35 to $105 per month beginning with the July 2014 eligibility budget. The PNA, per couple, will increase from $70 to $210 per month. The PNA, for Supplement Security Income (SSI) only nursing home residents, will increase from $5 to $75 per month.

This is the first time in Medicaid history there has been an increase in the Personal Needs Allowance.  What this means is nursing home residents can keep more of their income each month and their patient responsibility - what they pay to the nursing home - will decrease.

This is very good news.  The PNA is intended to be used for those things that Medicaid does not pay for - things like haircuts, toiletries, clothing, bank fees, etc.  If you are unsure an expense falls under these guidelines, be sure and ask.  As a result of the PNA increase, it is important funds are monitored to ensure assets remain below the $2,000 asset limitation at least one day every month in order to maintain continued Medicaid eligibility. 

If you have questions or concerns about Medicaid eligibility, please feel free to contact us!

The Law Offices of Hoyt & Bryan

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Oviedo, Florida  32765

407-977-8080

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