Understanding Spend Down: Help for Seniors Not Meeting Eligibility Requirements
Aging in America: Public Service Announcement Supported by the Better Aging Bureau https://www.synerkare.com
Public Service Announcement (PSA)
Presented by: Aging in America
Hello friends,
This is a message from Aging in America. We want to help our elders and families understand a special way to get help paying for health care, medicine, and food. It’s called “Spend Down.”
Let’s make it simple:
👉 If you are a senior, disabled, or have low income, you might be able to get Medicaid, which helps pay for doctor visits, medicine, and more.
But sometimes, you make a little too much money to get help. That’s where Spend Down comes in.
🧾 What Is Spend Down?
Think of it like this:
If you have too much money to qualify, you can use that extra money to pay for medical bills, medicine, or health insurance. Once you’ve spent enough, the government says, “Okay, now you can get help from Medicaid.”
🧍♀️ Who Can Use Spend Down?
Seniors (usually age 65 and up)
People with disabilities
People with low income, but not low enough for regular Medicaid
🪜 How Do You Use Spend Down?
Here are the easy steps:
Call your local Medicaid office or go online to your state’s Medicaid website.
(In Wisconsin, visit: www.access.wisconsin.gov)Apply for Medicaid. If you make too much money, ask about the Spend Down or Medically Needy Program.
Save your medical bills, receipts, and payments. These can include:
Doctor visits
Prescriptions
Health insurance costs
Eyeglasses, dental, or hospital visits
Turn in those bills to show how much money you spent. The state will subtract it from your income.
Once you spend enough, you can get Medicaid!
You will get help for the rest of that month or period.
📢 Important:
Even if you think you make too much money, don’t give up! Spend Down may be the key to getting the help you need.
Need help?
Call Aging in America at [Insert Phone Number] or visit us online at www.betteragingbureau.org. We’re here to guide you, step by step.
Because no senior should ever be left without care. 💙
This message is brought to you by Aging in America – Protecting Our Elders, Preserving Their Dignity.
Ultimately, our examination of this system is just the beginning; it is our collective responsibility to act decisively in making the changes needed to protect those who are at risk. When we come together as one, we can ignite a powerful movement towards liberation and reformation that fosters a safer environment for everyone. Engaging in conversations, sharing insights, and supporting initiatives like Aging in America are essential steps in this journey. By doing so, we not only uplift our elders but also reinforce the values that define our humanity. Let us take this moment to rally together and commit to making a difference—our efforts can pave the way for a more compassionate world.