For many older adults and individuals with disabilities, remaining at home or in a community setting is the preferred choice. Kansas Medicaid’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers allow eligible individuals to receive long-term care support outside of nursing facilities. As of July 1, 2025, the rules for HCBS financial eligibility remain unchanged, but the new policy on late reviews being treated as new applications makes careful planning even more important.
What HCBS Waivers Provide
Kansas offers several HCBS waivers that cover services such as:
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In-home personal care and attendant services
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Adult day health services
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Respite care for family caregivers
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Home modifications and assistive technology
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Case management and care coordination
These programs allow applicants to avoid or delay nursing home placement, while still receiving the supports they need.
Financial Eligibility for HCBS Waivers (2025)
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Asset Limit: $2,000 (single applicant) or $3,000 (married couple if both apply). If one spouse applies and the other does not, the Community Spouse Resource Allowance (CSRA) allows the non-applicant spouse to retain up to $157,920 in assets.
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Income Limit: Up to $2,901 per month (as of July 2025). If income exceeds this limit, there may be legal/planning avenues to establish eligibility.
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Home Equity Exemption: The primary home is exempt up to $730,000 in equity if the applicant or spouse lives there, or if the applicant declares an intent to return.
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Look-Back Period: Medicaid applies a 60-month look-back for asset transfers. Gifting or selling assets below market value within that window may result in a penalty period of ineligibility.
Key Planning Considerations
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Apply Early & On Time
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With the July 1, 2025 rule change, a late review is now treated as a new application, which can jeopardize backdated coverage. Always submit renewals promptly.
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Use Spend-Down Strategies Wisely
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Converting countable assets into exempt ones (home repairs, medical equipment, prepaid burial plans) can help meet asset limits.
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Work with an elder law professional to avoid transfers that trigger penalties.
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Protect the Healthy Spouse
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Kansas law ensures the community spouse can keep a portion of assets and income. Proper planning maximizes these protections while ensuring the applicant qualifies.
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Keep Thorough Records
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Income, medical expenses, and financial transactions should be carefully documented. This helps streamline applications and redeterminations.
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Why Planning Matters
The HCBS waiver program can make the difference between living at home and moving to a nursing facility. But navigating the income rules, asset protections, and strict timelines requires advance planning. With the new KanCare policy on late reviews, families must be especially vigilant to avoid unnecessary gaps in coverage.
Conclusion
Kansas HCBS waivers remain a valuable pathway for long-term care outside of nursing homes. By applying on time, using lawful spend-down strategies, and protecting the well-spouse’s resources, families can secure these benefits without unnecessary disruption.
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