Florida
Department of Children and Families uses a formula to determine minimum
income for the at-home spouse (community spouse) of a nursing home
patient receiving Medicaid benefits. As of July 2008 this amount
is $1,750. In addition, living expenses for the community
spouse may increase this allowance up to a maximum of $2,610.
Patient
Responsibility
In Florida, a nursing
home patient who is receiving Medicaid benefits has a share of cost
to pay the nursing home each month. This patient
responsibility is determined by adding the Medicaid recipient's
gross income from all sources and then subtracting $35 for a
personal needs allowance. If there is a spousal income
allowance, also subtract that amount to determine the patient
responsibility.