What is the Community Spouse Resource Allowance (CSRA)?
The CSRA is the amount of a couple's countable assets the healthy (community) spouse can keep when the other spouse qualifies for Medicaid long-term care. In 2024 it is generally half of countable assets, subject to a minimum of $30,828 and a maximum of $154,140.
The Minimum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance (MMMNA) is the minimum monthly income the at-home spouse is allowed to keep. In 2024 the floor is $2,465 and the ceiling is $3,853.50 per month, adjusted upward for high shelter costs. If the community spouse's income is below this, income is shifted from the spouse in care.
How do spousal impoverishment rules protect the healthy spouse?
They prevent the at-home spouse from being left destitute by a Medicaid spend-down. The CSRA protects a share of assets and the MMMNA guarantees a minimum monthly income, so the community spouse can continue to live independently while the other receives Medicaid nursing home care.
Can the community spouse keep more than the standard CSRA?
Sometimes. Through a fair hearing or court order, a community spouse may retain assets above the standard CSRA if the income they generate is needed to reach the MMMNA. This is a complex area where an elder law attorney can add significant value.
Does Canada have spousal impoverishment protections?
Canada does not need them. Because provincial long-term care is income-tested rather than asset-tested, there is no spend-down that could impoverish a spouse, so no CSRA or MMMNA equivalents exist.