How to apply for Frail Elder Waiver (MassHealth Long-Term Care at Home)

Who it's for

The Frail Elder Waiver lets Massachusetts residents 60 and older (60-64 with a disability) who qualify for nursing-facility care stay at home instead — personal care, homemaker help, home-delivered meals, respite, adult day programs, transportation, home adaptations, and dementia supports. For 2026, monthly income must be $2,982 or less (300% of the federal benefit rate) with assets of $2,000 or less ($3,000 for a couple; spousal protections apply). The local Aging Services Access Point assesses clinical eligibility. Call MassOptions at 1-800-243-4636.

What you'll need

• Clinical assessment through the local ASAP
• Frail Elder Waiver application (mailed to the ASAP)
• MassHealth SACA-2 financial application

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Frail Elder Waiver (MassHealth Long-Term Care at Home). 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 clinical assessment through the local asap, frail elder waiver application (mailed to the asap), masshealth saca-2 financial application — 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.

Step by step

1. Call MassOptions at 1-800-243-4636 or apply online to start your Frail Elder Waiver application. A representative will connect you with your local Aging Services Access Point (ASAP).
2. Schedule and complete a nursing-facility level-of-care assessment with your local ASAP. This clinical assessment determines whether you qualify for the waiver based on your care needs.
3. Gather the financial documents you will need to show your income and assets. For 2026, income must be $2,982 or less per month and assets must be $2,000 or less (or $3,000 for a couple). Married applicants should ask about spousal-impoverishment rules, which can protect substantially more assets.
4. Complete the MassHealth SACA-2 financial application. Your ASAP or MassOptions can tell you how to get this form.
5. Return the completed Frail Elder Waiver application by mailing it to your local ASAP. Make sure all required documents are included before sending.
6. Confirm that your home setting qualifies and that you are able to use at least one waiver service each month, as both are required to participate in the program.

What to expect: After submitting your application and assessment, MassHealth and your local ASAP will review your clinical and financial eligibility. Processing times vary, so ask your ASAP for an estimate of how long to expect. If approved, you will work with your ASAP to set up a care plan that includes at least one waiver service per month — such as personal care, home-delivered meals, adult day programs, or other covered supports. Enrollment must be renewed every year, so watch for renewal notices and respond promptly to avoid any gap in services. Because spousal-impoverishment protections and other factors affect eligibility, your actual qualification will be confirmed through the full review process.

Renewals

annual