How to apply for Kentucky Home and Community Based (HCB) Medicaid waiver
Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services — Department for Medicaid Services (DMS) and Department for Aging and Independent Living (DAIL)
Who it's for
The Home and Community Based (HCB) waiver is a Kentucky Medicaid program that helps seniors 65 and older and people with physical disabilities who need nursing-home level care keep living at home. Services include adult day health care, attendant care, small home changes for safety, home-delivered meals, and respite care to give a caregiver a break. You can use an agency, hire your own workers (including family or friends) through Participant Directed Services, or both. You must first qualify for Medicaid; the HCB waiver uses special money rules. Apply for Medicaid on kynect or call DCBS at 855-306-8959, then apply for HCB on kynect or at an Aging and Disability Resource Center. For questions, call DAIL at 877-315-0589. There is a waiting list.
An assessment must show you need the level of care given in a nursing home, and you must qualify for Medicaid under the waiver's special money rules. There is a waiting list, placed by the date your completed application is received. Medicaid 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
- Proof of income and savings for the Medicaid application
- See the Medicaid Waiver Services Fact Sheet linked on the HCB page for the full list
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 877-315-0589
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Kentucky Home and Community Based (HCB) 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 proof of income and savings for the Medicaid application, see the Medicaid Waiver Services Fact Sheet linked on the HCB page for the full list — 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.