To be eligible for an assessment of assets, there must be an institutionalized spouse. If not previously requested, an assessment of assets is required when an institutionalized spouse applies for vendor benefits.
Either member of the couple or their representative must complete the Declaration and Assessment of Assets form (IM-78) for the month in which the institutionalization begins regardless of when the request for assessment is made. An application for vendor benefits is not required for the completion of an assessment.
EXAMPLE: Mr. Basic was admitted to a Skilled Nursing Facility on November 15, 2007. He is likely to be institutionalized for 30 days. For the assessment of assets, the couple must declare assets owned in November 2007. Verify the equity value of non-exempt assets owned in November 2007.
The county where the institutionalized spouse resides completes the assessment. Follow the policy covering Location of Case Records. When an institutionalized spouse moves to another county before or after an assessment request is completed, transfer the assessment record in the same manner as any other record.
To be eligible for an assessment of assets, the first continuous period of institutionalization must begin on or after September 30, 1989 or receive HCB Waiver Services effective January 1, 1993 or after.
NOTE: For individuals who began their first continuous period of institutionalization before September 30, 1989, eligibility for vendor is based on the non-vendor MO HealthNet for Aged, Blind, and Disabled (MHABD) policy (available resources must be at or below $2,000 or $4,000 if using AB criteria). However, these individuals qualify for a Division of Assets if they leave an ICF or Skilled Nursing Facility for 30 days or longer and re-enter an ICF or Skilled Nursing Facility on or after September 30, 1989 or receive HCB Waiver Services on January 1, 1993 or after.
EXAMPLE: Mr. Lawrence has been residing in a Skilled Nursing Facility since October 4, 1987. Mrs. Lawrence remained in the couple’s home in the community. Mr. Lawrence returned home from the facility on May 1, 1991. On June 3, 1991, Mr. Lawrence moved back into a Skilled Nursing Facility. The Lawrence’s are eligible for a Division of Assets for the month of June 1991.