How to apply for PASSPORT Medicaid Waiver — Pre-Admission Screening System Providing Options and Resources Today

Who it's for

PASSPORT is Ohio's marquee Medicaid HCBS (Home and Community-Based Services) Waiver for age 60+ at nursing-home level of care. One of the most-studied Medicaid HCBS waivers in the US — Ohio's PASSPORT pioneered the model of single-entry case management through Area Agencies on Aging. Services include personal care, home-delivered meals, adult day services, transportation, home modifications, emergency response systems, and respite. Must qualify for Medicaid (income ~$967/mo single, $2,000 resource limit) PLUS need nursing-home level of care. Apply through the local AAA (Area Agency on Aging) — see aging.ohio.gov for the AAA locator.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 60+
• Proof of Ohio residency
• Proof of all household income and resources
• Nursing-home level-of-care assessment (completed by AAA)
• Medicare card if enrolled

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about PASSPORT Medicaid Waiver — Pre-Admission Screening System Providing Options and Resources Today. 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 age 60+, proof of Ohio residency, proof of all household income and resources — 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. Confirm basic eligibility — you must be age 60 or older, an Ohio resident, qualify for Medicaid, AND need a nursing-home level of care to be considered for PASSPORT.
2. Gather your required documents: proof of age (showing you are 60 or older), proof of Ohio residency, proof of all household income and resources, your Medicare card if you are enrolled in Medicare, and any other financial records that show your income and assets.
3. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) to start your application — call the statewide line at 1-866-243-5678 or apply online through the Ohio Department of Aging. There are 12 regional AAAs across Ohio, and your local AAA will guide you through the process.
4. Complete a nursing-home level-of-care assessment arranged by your local AAA. A trained assessor will review your care needs to determine if you meet this required level of care.
5. Submit your full application along with all gathered documents to your local AAA. Make sure all income, resource, and identity documents are included so there are no delays.
6. Work with your AAA case manager to develop a care plan if you are approved. Your case manager will help coordinate PASSPORT services such as personal care, home-delivered meals, adult day services, transportation, home modifications, emergency response systems, and respite care.

What to expect: After submitting your application, your local Area Agency on Aging will review your documents and assessment results to determine eligibility for both Medicaid and nursing-home level of care. Processing times vary, so ask your AAA case manager for an estimate of how long a decision may take. If approved, a case manager will work with you to set up your in-home and community-based services. Because PASSPORT is a Medicaid waiver, enrollment may be subject to available slots. Eligibility must be renewed every year, so watch for renewal notices from your AAA and respond promptly to avoid any gap in services.

Renewals

annual