How to apply for Living Choices Assisted Living (Arkansas Medicaid waiver)

Who it's for

Living Choices is an Arkansas Medicaid program that pays for care in an assisted living facility. You live in your own apartment with 24-hour supervision and care. Staff can help with bathing, using the bathroom, eating and drinking, and with medicines, and there are social activities. It serves adults 21 through 64 with a physical disability and people 65 or older who meet nursing home admission rules at the intermediate level. For 2026, DHS lists an income limit of $2,982 a month for the person applying and a savings limit of $2,000. Call your local DHS county office or the Choices in Living Resource Center at 1-866-801-3435.

What you'll need

• Call to ask what to bring

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Living Choices Assisted Living (Arkansas 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 call to ask what to bring — 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 Choices in Living Resource Center at 1-866-801-3435 or apply online.
2. Ask what documents to bring or send with your application.
3. Complete the application with your personal, income, and savings information.
4. Be ready to show that you meet nursing home admission rules at the intermediate level and need at least one of the program's services.
5. If your income is over the limit, ask about setting up an Income Trust.
6. Follow any instructions from DHS and provide any extra information they request.

What to expect: After you apply, DHS reviews your information and makes the final decision. Processing times vary, so ask for an estimate when you apply. Keep in mind that income and savings limits apply, only the applicant's own income is counted, and the program does not pay for room and board. If you are approved, renew your coverage every year.

Renewals

annual