Illinois Medicaid Long-Term Care Figures: the facts

1. In 2026, the community spouse of an Illinois nursing home resident may keep $143,172 of the couple's countable resources. Illinois sets its own standard, up from $135,648; the federal range is $32,532 to $162,660.
2. The community spouse maintenance needs allowance is $4,066.50 a month in 2026. Illinois uses the federal maximum; income can be shifted from the resident spouse to bring the community spouse up to it.
3. The home is exempt in 2026 up to $752,000 of equity, the federal minimum. The equity limit does not apply while a spouse or a dependent child lives in the home.
4. An applicant may keep $17,500 in countable resources, one person or a couple, under Illinois's AABD Medical rules.
5. The look-back is 60 months. A transfer for less than fair value inside it produces a penalty period equal to the amount transferred divided by the facility's own monthly private-pay rate, partial months included. Illinois has no statewide divisor for nursing homes.
6. A nursing home resident keeps a personal needs allowance of $60 a month; a supportive living resident, $120.

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