What Are the Requirements for ALTCS-Approved Assisted Living Facilities?

We are dedicated to providing affordable housing for people who need it, and it all starts with informing people about the resources available to them. If you’re interested in ALTCS-approved living facilities but are unsure if you qualify, here’s what you need to know.

Documentation

In order to apply for ALTCS-approved living facilities, you must first qualify for the ALTCS program at large. The process will vary from person to person, but the basic requirements are that you must be a US citizen, reside in Arizona, have applied for all additional aid available to you, and have a valid Social Security number. If you have any questions about the requirements or are curious about how your specific situation might apply, you can get further guidance from your local ALTCS office.

Income Threshold

Since ALTCS-approved living facilities are intended to benefit people who may not otherwise have the means to afford assisted living, there’s an income threshold you must fall below to qualify. As of 2020, the gross monthly income limit for an individual is $2,349. That limit might vary if you’re married and whether or not your spouse is moving with you into an ALTCS-approved living facility, so be sure to read through the application carefully and ask the office for any clarifications.

Asset Ownership

In addition to your income, the state must review your assets to see if you qualify to live in an ALTCS-approved living facility. Currently, you cannot benefit from ALTCS programs if you have assets totaling more than $2,000. That being said, the state doesn’t count all your assets when determining if you reach the limit.

Assets such as your primary home, a single vehicle, and your household possessions do not count toward that $2,000 limit. They will, however, count any additional real estate or non-exempt vehicles, as well as bank accounts or other financial assets. If you’re unsure what assets you have that might be counted towards the limit, feel free to refer back to the application.

Necessity of Care

Once you financially qualify for an ALTCS-approved living facility, you must then be able to prove that you have a medical need. After reviewing your financial assets, you’ll have the opportunity to meet with a nurse or social worker to discuss your needs and assess whether it’s necessary for you to move into an assisted living community. In the face-to-face interview, they’ll determine if you meet medical eligibility based on your current care needs. Note that you don’t need to currently live in such a community, only that you require that level of care.

With all of the requirements met, you’ll be able to start searching for the assisted living community, such as BridgeWater Assisted Living that’s right for you.