How to apply for Living Choices Assisted Living (Arkansas Medicaid waiver)
Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services (DAABHS)
Who it's for
Living Choices is an Arkansas Medicaid program that pays for care in an assisted living facility. You live in your own apartment with 24-hour supervision and care. Staff can help with bathing, using the bathroom, eating and drinking, and with medicines, and there are social activities. It serves adults 21 through 64 with a physical disability and people 65 or older who meet nursing home admission rules at the intermediate level. For 2026, DHS lists an income limit of $2,982 a month for the person applying and a savings limit of $2,000. Call your local DHS county office or the Choices in Living Resource Center at 1-866-801-3435.
You must meet nursing home admission rules at the intermediate level and need at least one of the program's services. Income and savings limits apply, and only the applicant's own income is counted. If your income is over the limit, you may still qualify by setting up an Income Trust. The program does not pay for room and board. DHS makes the final decision.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Discover my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Call to ask what to bring
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-866-801-3435
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Living Choices Assisted Living (Arkansas Medicaid waiver). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need call to ask what to bring — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
annual
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.