Benefits · Long Term Care
How to apply for Home & Community Based Services (Nursing-Home-Level Care at Home)
Missouri DHSS Division of Senior and Disability Services; MO HealthNet (financial eligibility)
Who it's for
Missouri's HCB waiver lets people 63 and older who need nursing-facility-level care get that care at home instead — personal care, home-delivered meals, respite, home modifications, adult day care, and transportation for essential activities. For 2026, the eligible person's monthly income must be $1,737 or less, with resources of $6,220.50 or less (after Division of Assets for married couples). A DHSS in-home assessment establishes the level-of-care need. Start with a referral at 1-866-835-3505 or the online referral form.
The waiver requires a DHSS in-home assessment showing a nursing-facility level of care, services are capped by a cost maximum tied to nursing-home costs, and married applicants go through a Division of Assets — so this shows as a may-qualify result.
What you'll need
- Referral by phone or the online DHSS referral form
- In-home assessment by the Division of Senior and Disability Services (respond within 10 days)
- MO HealthNet enrollment
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-866-835-3505
What to say when you call
“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Home & Community Based Services (Nursing-Home-Level 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 referral by phone or the online dhss referral form, in-home assessment by the division of senior and disability services (respond within 10 days), mo healthnet enrollment — 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.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.