Medicaid Payment for Healthcare Services in Minnesota

Paying for healthcare can be overwhelming — especially when long-term care is involved. For many Minnesota families, Medicaid (called Medical Assistance in Minnesota) helps cover costs that would otherwise be impossible to manage on their own.

Medicaid can help pay for a wide range of services, including doctor visits, hospital care, assisted living, group home care, and home-based support. But knowing whether you qualify — and how to access it — can feel confusing.

This guide breaks it down in simple, straightforward terms so you can make the best decision for your loved one.

What Is Medicaid in Minnesota?

Medicaid is a government program funded by both the state and federal government. In Minnesota, it is called Medical Assistance (MA).

It is designed to help people with limited income and assets pay for healthcare — including long-term care services like assisted living and residential group homes.

Medical Assistance is one of the most common ways Minnesota families pay for care. If your loved one qualifies, it can cover a large portion — or all — of their care costs.

What Does Medicaid Cover for Assisted Living?

Medical Assistance can help cover a wide range of care services in Minnesota, including:

  • Doctor visits and hospital care
  • Prescription medications
  • Personal care assistance — bathing, dressing, meals, and medication management
  • Assisted living and licensed group home care
  • Home care services
  • Respite care for family caregivers
  • Long-term residential care

Who Qualifies for Medicaid in Minnesota?

To qualify for Medical Assistance in Minnesota, your loved one generally needs to meet these basic requirements:

Age or disability

  • Adults 65 and older
  • Adults under 65 with a qualifying physical or cognitive disability
  • Individuals receiving SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

Income limits Income limits vary depending on the program and household size. Some programs allow for a spend-down process if your income is slightly over the limit.

Asset limits There are limits on countable assets — such as savings accounts and investments. Some assets, like a primary home or one vehicle, are typically exempt.

Minnesota residency Your loved one must be a Minnesota resident and a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant.

Not sure if your loved one qualifies? Your county human services office can help you determine eligibility at no cost.

How to Apply for Medicaid in Minnesota

Applying for Medical Assistance is simpler than many families expect. Here are the basic steps:

Step 1: Gather your documents You will need proof of identity, income, assets, Minnesota residency, and any existing medical records or disability documentation.

Step 2: Apply through your county Contact your local county human services office to apply in person. You can also apply online through MNsure at mn.gov or call the Minnesota Health Care Programs Member Help Desk at 1-800-657-3739.

Step 3: Request a MnCHOICES assessment If your loved one needs long-term care or waiver services, a MnCHOICES assessment is required. This free assessment determines what level of care is needed and which programs your loved one may qualify for. Contact your county to schedule one.

Step 4: Work with a case manager Once approved, a case manager will be assigned to help your loved one access services and choose a care provider — like 1 on 1 Comprehensive Healthcare Solution.

Medicaid payment for healthcare services in Minnesota with medical supplies and assisted living care concept

Medicaid Payment for Service at 1 on 1 Comprehensive Health

At 1 on 1 Comprehensive Healthcare Solution, we often accept Medicaid payments through waiver programs.
These include CADI and the EW (Elderly Waiver). These waivers help eligible people get person-centered care in a licensed residential setting. They also support care in the community, not in a hospital or nursing facility.

Services that may be covered by Medicaid payment include:

To use Medicaid for care, individuals must apply through their county or case manager and receive an assessment. Once approved, our team coordinates with families and counties to develop a customized care plan under Minnesota’s 245D licensing standards.

Contact us at 763-299-0025 to learn how Medicaid can help fund your care.

We accept Medicaid-funded clients at our facilities in:

Complete Our Health Needs Assessment to Find the Best Care in Minnesota

Finding the right care in Minnesota can feel challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Our simple and secure Health Needs Assessment in Minnesota helps families quickly identify the best care solution—whether that’s Comprehensive Home Care, specialized 245-D waiver services, or a trusted licensed assisted living home.

Start My Assessment

Helpful Resources for Medicaid and Assisted Living in Minnesota

Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) The main state agency that oversees Medical Assistance and waiver programs in Minnesota. mn.gov/dhs

MNsure — Apply for Medical Assistance Online Apply for Medical Assistance online through Minnesota’s official health insurance marketplace. mnsure.org

MnCHOICES Assessment Information Learn about the MnCHOICES assessment process and how to request one in your county. mn.gov/dhs/mnchoices

Minnesota Health Care Programs Member Help Desk Questions about Medical Assistance? Call 1-800-657-3739 or 651-431-2670 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Senior LinkAge Line Free statewide service connecting older Minnesotans and their families to long-term care resources. Call 1-800-333-2433 or visit mn.gov/senior-linkage-line

HB101 Minnesota — Long-Term Care Guide A simple, easy-to-read guide to understanding long-term care options in Minnesota. mn.hb101.org

Hennepin County Health and Human Services Apply for Medical Assistance or request a MnCHOICES assessment in Hennepin County. Call 612-348-4111 or visit Hennepin Assistance

Wright County Health and Human Services For families near St. Michael, Monticello, and surrounding Wright County communities. Call 763-682-7400 or visit co.wright.mn.us

Anoka County Human Services For families in Spring Lake Park, Blaine, Fridley, and surrounding Anoka County communities. Call 763-422-7000 or visit anokacounty.us

Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs Information on VA benefits that may help cover the cost of care for veterans in Minnesota. Call 1-888-546-5838 or visit mn.gov/mdva

Disability Hub MN A free statewide resource network helping people with disabilities navigate services and long-term care options. Call 1-866-333-2466 or visit disabilityhubmn.org

Minnesota Ombudsman for Long-Term Care An independent advocate for people receiving long-term care services in Minnesota. Call 1-800-657-3591 or visit mn.gov/ombudsman

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