How to apply for Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) — Long-Term & Home-Based Care

Who it's for

ALTCS is Arizona's Medicaid long-term-care program. It pays for nursing-facility care and home & community-based services (personal care, home care, adult day care) for people who need a nursing-home level of care, so many can stay in their own home. You must need that level of care, have income at or below 300% of the SSI benefit rate ($2,982/month in 2026), and have countable resources of $2,000 or less. Apply through the ALTCS office or Health-e-Arizona Plus.

What you'll need

• Proof of Arizona residency and Social Security number
• Proof of income and resources
• Medical/functional information for the Pre-Admission Screening (nursing-facility level of care)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) — Long-Term & Home-Based Care. 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 Arizona residency and Social Security number, proof of income and resources, medical/functional information for the Pre-Admission Screening (nursing-facility level of care) — 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 you meet the basic eligibility rules. You must live in Arizona, need a nursing-facility level of care, have income at or below 300% of the SSI Federal Benefit Rate ($2,982/month in 2026), and have countable resources of $2,000 or less. Married couples may be able to protect a portion of shared resources for the spouse who stays at home.
2. Gather your required documents. You will need proof of Arizona residency, proof of your Social Security number, proof of income and resources, and any medical or functional records that support your need for nursing-facility level care.
3. Choose how to apply. You can apply online through Health-e-Arizona Plus or by phone by calling the ALTCS office at 1-800-654-8713.
4. Complete the Pre-Admission Screening (PAS). After you apply, ALTCS will schedule this assessment to determine whether you meet the nursing-facility level of care requirement. Gather and share any medical or functional information requested to support this review.
5. Submit all requested documents promptly. Respond quickly to any follow-up requests from ALTCS so your application is not delayed.
6. Keep a copy of everything you submit. Note the date you applied and the name of anyone you spoke with at the ALTCS office.
7. Plan to renew your coverage every year. ALTCS will contact you when it is time to renew, but mark your calendar so you do not miss the deadline.

What to expect: After submitting your application, ALTCS will schedule a Pre-Admission Screening to assess your functional and medical needs. Processing times vary, so ask the ALTCS office for an estimate when you apply. If approved, ALTCS may cover nursing-facility care or home and community-based services such as personal care, home care, or adult day care. Be aware that Arizona runs an estate-recovery program for the cost of services received after age 55, and you may owe a share of cost depending on your income. Coverage must be renewed annually — ALTCS will reach out when renewal is due, but it is a good idea to track that date yourself.

Renewals

annual