AltCS Net Worth Limit 2019 refers to the financial threshold used by the Arizona Department of Economic Security to determine eligibility for the ALTCS program, which assists applicants with long-term care costs. This annual income and asset limit is adjusted for inflation and ensures that resources are directed to seniors and individuals with disabilities who need state support.
Understanding the 2019 limits is essential for planning and submitting a complete application, because the figures affect both countable income and countable resources. The following sections break down the policy details, eligibility criteria, and practical steps tied to the 2019 caps.
| Year | Monthly Income Limit (Cap) | Resource Limit (Individual) | Spouse Impoverishment Allowance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | $2,205 | $2,000 | $119,220 |
| 2018 | $2,250 | $2,000 | $120,909 |
| 2019 | $2,313 | $2,000 | $123,600 |
| 2020 | $2,349 | $2,000 | $126,420 |
| 2021 | $2,382 | $2,000 | $128,400 |
Income Limits And Monthly Calculations
Countable Income Rules For 2019
The ALTCS net worth limit 2019 income cap of $2,313 per month applies to countable income, which includes most sources such as pensions, Social Security, and annuities. Applicants must calculate the total monthly income by summing these sources and compare it against the state threshold to confirm eligibility.
Exclusions And Adjustments In 2019
Certain income types may be excluded or partially excluded, such as portions of veteran benefits or specific shelter expenses. Understanding which items are fully or partially excluded helps applicants present accurate financial information and avoid delays in processing their ALTCS application.
Asset Limits And Resource Definitions
Countable Resources For An Individual
The resource limit for an individual remained at $2,000 during 2019, covering assets such as bank accounts, stocks, and certain personal property. Applicants must report these resources accurately because exceeding the limit, even temporarily, can result in denial until the excess is spent down appropriately.
Exempt Assets In 2019
Exempt assets, including the primary residence, household goods, and one vehicle, are not counted toward the $2,000 resource limit. Proper documentation and valuation of these items are important to ensure that only countable resources are assessed when determining ALTCS eligibility.
Spouse And Community Spouse Considerations
Spouse Impoverishment Rules
The spouse impoverishment allowance for 2019 set a cap of $123,600, protecting a portion of community assets for the non-applicant spouse. This calculation affects how much countable income and assets the couple may retain while still allowing the applicant to qualify for ALTCS support.
Income Maintenance For The Community Spouse
A portion of the couple's income and resources is set aside for the community spouse to maintain a minimum standard of living. The 2019 rules provide specific income and asset floors, which vary slightly each year, to ensure that the non-applicant spouse can meet basic needs during the coverage period.
Application Process And Documentation
Required Financial Documents
Applicants for ALTCS in 2019 needed to submit recent pay stubs, benefit statements, bank statements, and tax returns to verify income and resources. Providing complete and organized documentation reduces processing time and helps the agency confirm compliance with the net worth limit 2019 requirements.
Timing And Renewal Procedures
ALTCS cases are subject to periodic reviews, which means applicants must renew and update their financial information regularly. Staying aware of the annual adjustments in income and asset limits helps applicants and caregivers plan ahead and maintain continuous coverage without unexpected interruptions.
Planning And Next Steps
- Review the 2019 monthly income cap of $2,313 and the individual resource limit of $2,000 to gauge initial eligibility.
- Gather financial documents such as bank statements, benefit letters, and tax returns to verify countable income and assets.
- Understand which assets are exempt, including a primary vehicle and household items, to avoid overstating resources.
- Work with a caseworker or elder law attorney to structure income and asset management in line with spouse impoverishment rules.
- Plan for periodic recertification and set reminders for renewal to maintain continuous ALTCS coverage beyond 2019.
FAQ
Reader questions
What income sources count toward the 2019 ALTCS income limit?
Countable income includes Social Security retirement or disability benefits, pensions, annuities, interest, and certain veterans benefits. Some items, such as a portion of VA Aid and Attendance pension, may be excluded or partially excluded, so applicants should verify specific treatment with the agency.
Does the $2,000 resource limit include retirement accounts like IRAs?
Yes, retirement accounts such as IRAs and 401(k)s are generally considered countable resources under the $2,000 limit for an individual. However, the treatment may vary based on rules at the time of application and how the funds are accessed.
How is the spouse’s income handled when the applicant applies for ALTCS?
The community spouse retains a portion of the couple's income and a portion of their countable assets under established minimum and maximum levels. This calculation is based on 2019 guidelines and is designed to ensure the spouse can cover basic living expenses while the applicant receives ALTCS support.
What happens if an applicant's resources exceed the $2,000 limit in 2019?
If countable resources exceed $2,000, the applicant is generally ineligible until the excess is spent down through allowed expenses. Acceptable expenditures include necessary home repairs, prepaid funeral arrangements, and paying off certain secured debts, as defined by ALTCS rules.