Paying for Personal Care Services

What is Medical Assistance?

Medical Assistance is a state healthcare program that provides necessary medical services for disabled and elderly (65 or older) Minnesotans, who have limited income and assets.

Learn more about medical assistance here!

Am I Eligible for Medical Assistance?

You must meet certain income and asset guidelines to be eligible. These guidelines change July 1 of each year, based on changes in the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Contact your local county social services office for further information.

For specific guidelines, go to Eligibility Policy Manual at the Department of Human Services.

What Is the MinnesotaCare Program?

MinnesotaCare provides free or discounted health insurance coverage to Minnesotans who lack access to affordable health insurance and earn more than those eligible for Medical Assistance. Minors covered by MinnesotaCare may be eligible for PCA services through the end of the month they turn 19 years old.

What If I Have Too Much Income or too many Assets?

Individuals who are in a higher income bracket and don’t qualify for PCA services may still qualify for Medical Assistance (MA) through certain Minnesota programs.

Some Minnesotans may become eligible for MA by paying a medical spenddown, which is a cost-sharing approach, similar to an insurance premium. Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities (MA-EPD) allows working people with disabilities to remain on MA under certain eligibility requirements and by paying premiums. People over age 65 may work with an estate planner or elder law attorney to spend down their assets so they qualify for MA.

How Do I Apply for Medical Assistance?

Fill out a Minnesota Health Care Programs application then mail or bring it to your County or Tribal Human Services Office. Alternatively, you can contact your county Human Services Office and a representative will help you complete the application.

For questions about the application or for assistance in submitting your information, contact Best Care, and a member of our dedicated team will guide you through the process. Additionally, you can also receive application assistance from one of the MNCAA Sites listed here.