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IN FACT, GOING $1 OVER THE INCOME LIMIT COULD MEAN THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RECEIVING CARE AT HOME OR BEING FORCED INTO A NURSING HOME.

That’s because individuals who rely on Medicaid Waiver programs to access services like personal caregivers, home health equipment, and medical supplies must stay under a strict monthly income cap of $2,901. Going even a dollar over, and they risk losing access to those essential supports.

Achieva Family Trust has a solution that protects both income and independence: the Income Spend Down Trust. And thanks to a recent $50,000 grant from the McElhattan Foundation, Achieva will be able to expand its reach and help even more people stay where they want to be—at home.

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PROTECTING DIGNITY THROUGH TRUST

The Income Spend Down Trust allows people with modest income overages—up to $500 per month— to deposit that excess into a special trust, keeping them eligible for the Medicaid Waiver. The funds are then used exclusively for the individual’s medical and care-related expenses, such as therapies, supplies, and home assistance.

Here’s how it works: If someone receives $3,214 in monthly income from Social Security and a pension—$313 over the Medicaid Waiver limit— they can deposit that $313 into an Achieva- managed trust. That simple act means they retain access to in-home and community-based services, rather than face institutionalization.

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A GROWING NEED, A TIMELY INVESTMENT

The complexity of Medicaid eligibility rules, combined with gradual increases in Social Security and retirement benefits, is pushing more people over the income line—many without realizing it. Achieva Family Trust’s expertise is crucial in navigating these rules and ensuring families don’t lose access to vital services over a technicality.

With the help of the new $50,000 grant, Achieva will hire a dedicated paralegal to manage and grow the program. This role will focus on administering trusts, ensuring timely deposits and spending, maintaining compliance, and educating families about their options.

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MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS

While the Income Spend Down Trust may sound like a financial mechanism, it’s really a lifeline. Without it, individuals can be forced to surrender nearly all their income—retaining only $60 per month—and may be funneled into nursing facilities they neither need nor want.

Achieva Family Trust sees the person first, not the paperwork. The trust program is about freedom, choice, and quality of life.

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WANT TO HELP?

Every dollar—and every day—counts. To learn more or support the expansion of Achieva Family Trust, visit achieva.info/beyondboundaries.

Together, we can ensure that no one loses their independence over a few extra dollars.

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