How to apply for Elderly Waiver (home & community-based services)

Who it's for

The Elderly Waiver funds home and community-based services — case management, homemaker and chore services, adult day services, respite care, assisted-living services — for people 65 and older who are eligible for Medical Assistance and need a nursing-home level of care but choose to live in the community. Start with a long-term care consultation through the county or the Senior LinkAge Line at 800-333-2433.

What you'll need

• Long-term care consultation (county assessment)
• Medical Assistance eligibility

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Elderly Waiver (home & community-based services). 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 long-term care consultation (county assessment), medical Assistance eligibility — 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 the Senior LinkAge Line at 1-800-333-2433 or contact your local county office to request a long-term care consultation.
2. Complete the long-term care consultation. A county assessor will evaluate your care needs and determine whether you meet the nursing-facility level-of-care requirement.
3. The county will also review your Medical Assistance eligibility during the assessment process. Both determinations happen through the county.
4. If you meet both requirements, work with your county or the Senior LinkAge Line to complete your Elderly Waiver application — by phone at 1-800-333-2433 or online.
5. After applying, stay in contact with your county case manager. They will help connect you with approved home and community-based services such as homemaker help, adult day services, respite care, or assisted living.

What to expect: After you submit your application, the county will review your long-term care consultation results and Medical Assistance eligibility. Processing times vary, so ask your county worker or call the Senior LinkAge Line at 1-800-333-2433 for an estimate of how long your review may take. If approved, a case manager will help you choose and arrange services that support you in living at home or in the community. Enrollment is reviewed every year, so watch for renewal notices from your county and respond promptly to keep your benefits active.

Renewals

annual