If you are trying to understand Indiana Medicaid benefits, you are not alone. Many Indiana residents are searching for ways to cover healthcare costs for themselves or for a loved one who needs support. Whether you are planning ahead or responding to a recent medical issue, knowing how Medicaid works in Indiana can help you make informed decisions.

What Do Indiana Medicaid Benefits Cover?

Indiana Medicaid is a government-funded health coverage program that helps individuals and families with limited income access medical care. Unlike Medicare, which is for some people with disabilities and people over the age of 65, Medicaid can support people of all ages depending on their income, health status, and other eligibility factors.

Medicaid benefits in Indiana cover a wide range of services. These include visits to the doctor, hospital care, lab work, prescriptions, mental health support, long-term care, and assistance at home for people with disabilities or chronic conditions. For families who cannot afford private insurance or whose loved ones need ongoing care, Medicaid can provide much-needed relief. At Kentucky Elder Law, the benefit we deal with is Medicaid for long-term care.

How do You Qualify for Indiana Medicaid Benefits?

Indiana’s Medicaid program does offer long-term care coverage, including nursing facility care, in-home services, and, in some instances, assisted living care. However, just because someone qualifies for Medicaid healthcare coverage does not mean they automatically qualify for long-term care benefits. And someone who does not qualify for Medicaid healthcare coverage may still qualify for long-term care benefits; the financial criteria are different.

Long-term care eligibility includes both financial qualifications and medical necessity. The person applying must show they need help with daily activities like dressing, eating, or getting out of bed. This level of care requires additional screening and paperwork.

Many families assume Medicare will pay for long-term care, but Medicare is limited to short-term rehab and temporary stays. Medicaid is the program that covers long-term care on a continuing basis for those who qualify.

Can You Own a Home and Still Receive Indiana Medicaid Benefits?

Yes, in most situations, you can. Indiana Medicaid does not count your primary home as an asset if you plan to return to it or if your spouse or certain dependents live there. However, if you still own a home when you die, the state may seek repayment through estate recovery for the amount it paid for your care, which can include the home. So, while you can own a home and receive Medicaid, it is likely a better plan to deal with the home to protect some of its value while you’re living. And it’s even better to plan before you need a nursing home or other long-term care.

This is why it is important to understand Medicaid rules before applying. Knowing how your home, assets, and other financial decisions affect eligibility can help you avoid issues down the road.

How Do You Apply for Medicaid in Indiana?

Applications can be submitted online through the FSSA Benefits Portal, over the phone, or in person at your local Division of Family Resources (DFR) office. You will be asked to provide documentation like income statements, proof of identity, and medical records if applicable.

Applying for Medicaid can feel stressful, especially when trying to understand how Indiana’s rules apply to situations like memory care, home care, or extended nursing home stays. When the stakes are high, and you are trying to protect both care and finances, professional legal guidance can make the process easier. Many families choose to work with an elder law attorney to help them apply correctly and protect their assets.

What If Your Indiana Medicaid Application Is Denied?

A denial does not always mean you are ineligible. In some cases, it simply means the state needs more information or the application was missing documents. In others, financial planning may be needed to meet the requirements.

You do have the right to appeal. Some families are surprised to learn that a few small changes to how assets are managed can make a big difference. If your application has been denied, it may be time to talk with someone who understands how the system works and what steps to take next.

How Can Kentucky ElderLaw Help?

Applying for Medicaid is not always straightforward, especially when you are managing care for an aging parent or other loved one who needs support now. At Kentucky ElderLaw, we help families understand their options, protect their assets, and complete the Medicaid application process with confidence. Whether you are preparing for the future or in the middle of a healthcare crisis, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us here to let us help you make sense of Kentucky Medicaid benefits and find the best path forward.