ALTCS Eligibility Requirements: What You Need To Know
If you or a loved one is looking into assisted living in Arizona, understanding the ALTCS eligibility requirements is essential. At Visions Assisted Living, we know how overwhelming it can be to navigate long-term care and financial planning. That’s why we’ve created this guide—to help families confidently explore their care options and determine whether ALTCS (Arizona Long Term Care System) could be a valuable support system.
What is ALTCS?
The Arizona Long Term Care System, commonly known as ALTCS, is part of the state’s Medicaid program. It’s specifically designed to provide funding and support for seniors and disabled individuals who require ongoing care, including assisted living, memory care, nursing homes, and in-home services.
Unlike standard Medicaid, ALTCS is tailored to meet the needs of people who require long-term care but may not be able to afford it on their own. ALTCS doesn’t just cover medical expenses—it can also help with daily living support like bathing, grooming, transportation, and medication management.
Why ALTCS Matters for Families in Arizona
Long-term care can be financially draining. On average, assisted living in Arizona costs between $4,000 and $6,000 per month. For families trying to ensure their loved ones receive quality care without sacrificing financial stability, ALTCS can be a lifeline.
At Visions Assisted Living in Mesa and Visions Assisted Living in Apache Junction, we are an ALTCS-approved vendor, which means residents who qualify for ALTCS benefits can use those funds to help cover their care with us.
ALTCS Eligibility Requirements (Financial & Medical)
To qualify for ALTCS, applicants must meet both financial and medical criteria. Let’s explore each in detail:
1. Financial Eligibility Requirements
The financial qualifications are based on both income and assets. These numbers can vary year by year, so it’s important to verify the most current limits with a Medicaid planning professional or the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS).
Here are the 2024 general guidelines:
Monthly Income Limit:
- $2,829 for an individual
- $5,658 for a couple
- (Note: Excess income may be addressed through a Miller Trust, also known as an Income-Only Trust.)
Asset Limit:
- $2,000 in countable assets for individuals
- $4,000 for couples (if both applying)
- $154,140 for the community spouse (spouse not applying)
Countable assets include bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, and more. Some assets, like one primary vehicle and a home under certain equity thresholds, may be excluded.
2. Medical Eligibility Requirements
In addition to financial eligibility, ALTCS also requires a medical evaluation. This assessment, called the Pre-Admission Screening (PAS), determines whether the applicant’s health condition meets the need for a nursing home level of care—even if the individual will live in an assisted living community.
During the PAS, ALTCS evaluators assess:
- Ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, transferring, and mobility.
- Cognitive function and memory-related concerns
- Medical diagnoses and ongoing treatment needs
- Risk of harm if left unsupervised
Applicants need to score 60 points or more on this evaluation to qualify.
Common ALTCS Eligibility Mistakes to Avoid
Navigating ALTCS can be tricky. Many families delay applying or get denied due to common missteps. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Giving away assets too soon: ALTCS uses a 5-year lookback period. Gifting or transferring assets for less than fair market value during this time can lead to a penalty.
- Overlooking exempt assets: Not everything counts toward your asset limit. Talk to a professional before selling property or vehicles.
- Incomplete documentation: Missing paperwork, bank statements, or medical records can slow down or block your application.
- Waiting too long: The process takes time. Starting early ensures you don’t run out of resources while waiting for approval.
ALTCS and Assisted Living: What’s Covered?
Once approved, ALTCS covers a wide range of services, depending on the care plan developed with your provider. For residents at Visions Assisted Living, ALTCS may help pay for:
- Assisted Living or Memory Care room and board (up to a certain limit)
- Medication management
- Personal care support (bathing, grooming, etc.)
- Case management
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Hospice or respite care
However, ALTCS does not cover items like personal clothing, over-the-counter medications, or phone/internet service.
How to Apply for ALTCS in Arizona
Here are the general steps to apply for ALTCS:
1. Start with AHCCCS
2. Prepare documentation
- You’ll need identification, income proof, medical records, bank statements, insurance info, and more.
3. Medical assessment (PAS)
- After submitting your application, AHCCCS will schedule your Pre-Admission Screening.
4. Wait for approval
- This process can take 45–90 days, so plan accordingly.
Visions Assisted Living: A Trusted ALTCS Partner
At Visions Assisted Living, we’re proud to be a certified ALTCS provider. Our team helps families understand the ALTCS application process and can refer you to ALTCS-planning professionals who specialize in Medicaid-compliant strategies.
We offer compassionate, affordable, and engaging senior care in two convenient Arizona locations:
Both communities offer personalized care plans, memory care, respite stays, and activities that support mind, body, and spirit. Whether you’re just beginning your ALTCS journey or already approved, we’re here to make the transition smooth and stress-free.
Final Thoughts: Take the First Step Today
Understanding the ALTCS eligibility requirements is the first step in planning for long-term care in Arizona. With the right guidance and a trusted care partner like Visions Assisted Living, you can confidently prepare for your or your loved one’s future.
💬 Have questions?
Schedule a tour or contact us today to speak with one of our senior care specialists. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
