Financing Long Term Care in Missouri
Paying for long term care can feel overwhelming. This page breaks down the main options in simple language and helps you understand how to start.
1. Private Pay
Many people pay for care out of pocket. This includes:
Assisted living
Memory care
Skilled nursing homes
In home caregivers
Adult day programs
Costs vary widely by level of care and location. In Missouri, nursing homes average several thousand dollars per month. Assisted living and memory care are usually private pay unless someone qualifies for Medicaid.
2. Long Term Care Insurance
Some people have a long term care insurance policy. These policies may help pay for:
Home care
Assisted living
Memory care
Skilled nursing care
You must meet the policy’s requirements, usually based on help needed with activities of daily living or cognitive impairment. Benefits and coverage amounts differ by policy.
3. Veterans Benefits (VA)
Veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for programs that help with long term care needs, such as:
VA Aid and Attendance
VA Homemaker and Home Health Aide programs
VA nursing home or community living centers
Eligibility depends on service history, income, assets, and level of need.
4. Missouri Medicaid (MO HealthNet)
Medicaid is the main public program that pays for long term care. In Missouri, Medicaid can help cover:
Long term care in nursing homes
In home care through Medicaid waiver programs
Adult day services
Some home modifications and support services
Applicants must meet both financial requirements and care needs.
How to apply
You can apply at Apply for Healthcare | mydss.mo.gov, by calling 855-373-4636, in person at a local Family Support Division office, or by mailing an application.
You will need proof of identity, Missouri residency, income, assets, and health insurance.
5. Medicaid Spend Down
If your income is too high for regular Medicaid, Missouri may assign you a Spend Down, which works like a monthly deductible.
You qualify for Medicaid each month after your medical bills reach your spend down amount.
There are two ways to meet spend down:
Pay in option: Pay the state your monthly spend down amount. Then Medicaid is active for the whole month.
Bills option: Submit medical bills that add up to your spend down amount. Bills can be new or old. Once the total is reached, Medicaid activates for the rest of the month.
Useful Links:
First: Cost of Care Calculator
Cost of Long Term Care by State | Cost of Care Report | Carescout
CMS Care Compare