Funding In-Home Care: MN Elderly Waiver & Alternative Care
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A Guide to Funding Your In-Home Care
EW vs. AC: What's the Difference?
Both programs serve Minnesotans 65 and older who need nursing home-level care. The split happens at the financial line:
| Feature | Elderly Waiver (EW) | Alternative Care (AC) |
|---|---|---|
| Funding Source | Federal Medicaid (Medical Assistance) | Minnesota State Funds |
| Income Limit (2026) | $2,982 / month (Single) | Low income, but above MA limits |
| Asset Limit (2026) | $3,000 (Individual) | Low assets, but above MA limits |
| Medical Threshold | Nursing Home Level of Care | Nursing Home Level of Care |
What These Programs Pay For
Personal & Home Care
- Bathing, dressing, and grooming
- Cleaning, laundry, and meal prep
- Home-delivered meals
Modifications & Gear
- Ramps and grab bars
- Wider doorways
- Specialized safety equipment
Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS)
CDCS flips the script: instead of the county choosing your caregiver, you control the budget. You design your own plan, hire your own staff, and set the schedule.
The Game-Changer: You can hire family members. Your adult daughter or even your spouse can get paid for the caregiving work they are already doing.
How to Apply: The 3-Step Process
- Request a Long-Term Care Consultation (LTCC): Contact your county social services for a free MnCHOICES assessment. A certified assessor will determine if you meet the medical "nursing home level of care" threshold.
- Financial Assessment: An eligibility worker reviews your income and assets. This determines if you qualify for Medical Assistance (EW) or the Alternative Care (AC) program.
- Build Your Care Plan: If qualified, a case manager helps you map out services. Unlike programs with waitlists, EW and AC function like entitlements—if you qualify, you get the support.
Livinglife Healthcare
Living Life Healthcare: Empowering independence, one home at a time. With 40+ years of combined expertise, we’re the Twin Cities’ trusted partner in exceptional home health care—helping Minnesotans live their best lives where they’re most comfortable.
Begin Your Journey with us
Reach out to discuss compassionate care for your loved one, and we’ll respond promptly.
- 1 888 816 1366
- hello@livinglifehealthcare.com