When a parent's money is running out in a personal care home

Last verified: October 2026

What happens when private funds run out in a Pennsylvania personal care home?

Because Medicaid does not pay personal care home room and board in Pennsylvania, the resident either needs another payment source, such as an SSI-accepting bed paid by the $1,433.30 combined SSI and state supplement, or a move, often to a nursing home if nursing-facility level of care and Medical Assistance eligibility are met.

Ask the home early whether it accepts residents on SSI and whether a current resident can convert to an SSI bed.

Can VA benefits close the gap?

For a wartime veteran or surviving spouse, VA pension with Aid and Attendance pays up to $29,093 a year for a single veteran in the 2026 rate year, minus countable income, and personal care costs can reduce countable income.

See the VA Aid and Attendance guide.

When should you start a Medical Assistance application?

Start planning at least several months before funds run out: the county assistance office reviews 60 months of transfers, and the 2026 resource limit for the long-term care categories is $2,000 plus a $6,000 disregard.

An elder law attorney can review the situation, especially when a spouse still lives at home.

Can the personal care home discharge someone for nonpayment?

Nonpayment can be a basis for discharge, but the home must follow the transfer and discharge rules, and in an assisted living residence give 30 days written notice; the Long-Term Care Ombudsman can help a resident respond.

Reach the ombudsman through 717-783-8975 or your county Area Agency on Aging.

Who can help the family plan?

The county Area Agency on Aging can explain public programs, PA MEDI counselors at the AAA can review Medicare options, an accredited Veterans Service Officer can help with VA pension at no charge, and an elder law attorney can plan Medical Assistance eligibility, especially for married couples.

What should you ask a personal care home before money gets tight?

Ask whether the home accepts residents on SSI and the Pennsylvania supplement, whether current residents can convert to an SSI bed, how much notice it requires before discharge for nonpayment, and whether it has helped other families arrange a move to a nursing home when Medical Assistance was needed.

Running out of money: what works and what does not