Ohio Medicaid Nursing Home Eligibility: A Complete Guide

Ohio nursing home costs average approximately $88,000–$100,000 annually for a semi-private room. Ohio Medicaid covers nursing home care for eligible residents — and Ohio offers one of the country's strongest HCBS alternatives through its PASSPORT waiver.

Who Qualifies

1. Medical necessity — Physician certifies need for nursing facility level of care (PASSPORT Assessment or MDS evaluation).
2. Financial eligibility — Income and asset limits.
3. Ohio residency — U.S. citizenship or qualifying immigration status.

Income Requirements

• Monthly income limit: $2,829/month (300% of SSI, 2025)

A Qualified Income Trust (Miller Trust) may be used when income exceeds the limit. Community spouse: Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance up to approximately $3,715/month.

Asset Requirements

• Individual applicant: $2,000 in countable assets
• Community spouse: Up to $148,620 (2025 CSRA)

Exempt assets: Primary home, one vehicle, personal property and household goods, prepaid irrevocable burial plan.

Look-back period: Ohio enforces a 60-month look-back period.

Application Process

Apply through your county Job and Family Services (CDJFS) office:

1. Find your county at jfs.ohio.gov or call 1-800-324-8680.
2. Apply through the Ohio Benefit Online System (OBES) or in person.
3. Submit: income documentation, 60 months of bank statements, asset records, physician level-of-care certification.

What Ohio Medicaid Covers

Covered: Semi-private room and board, skilled and custodial nursing care, physical/occupational/speech therapy, physician and specialist visits, prescriptions, medical equipment.

Not covered: Private rooms (unless medically necessary), personal items and comfort goods, telephone and TV.

Home- and Community-Based Programs

• PASSPORT Waiver: Ohio's primary senior home care waiver. Offers personal care, home health, adult day, respite, and homemaker services for individuals who qualify for nursing home level of care but wish to remain in the community.
• MyCare Ohio: A coordinated care model for people dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid in 29 counties.
• PACE Ohio: Available in selected communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PASSPORT and how do I apply?

PASSPORT (Pre-Admission Screening System Providing Options and Resources Today) is Ohio's HCBS waiver for seniors who qualify for nursing home level of care but prefer to live at home. Apply through your county CDJFS or local Area Agency on Aging.

Can a family member be paid as my caregiver?

Under PASSPORT and MyCare Ohio, certain family members may be compensated as caregivers. Contact your care manager for details.