Understanding Georgia Medicaid for Home Care

Paying for home care is one of the biggest concerns families face. In Georgia, two Medicaid waiver programs can help eligible seniors receive home care without moving to a nursing facility. Understanding these programs — and the application process — can make a significant difference in what your family pays out of pocket.

Georgia Medicaid Waiver Programs for Home Care

The Community Care Services Program (CCSP) is Georgia's primary Medicaid waiver for home and community-based services. It funds personal care, adult day health services, emergency response systems, and more. To qualify, a senior must be at risk of nursing home placement, meet income and asset limits, and be a Georgia resident aged 65 or older (or 18+ with a qualifying disability).

The SOURCE program (Service Options Using Resources in a Community Environment) is a managed care waiver that coordinates both Medicaid and Medicare benefits. It targets frail elderly individuals who need nursing home level of care but can remain safely at home with support services.

Income and Asset Limits

For CCSP in 2025, the income limit is generally 300% of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) federal benefit rate per month. Asset limits are $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. A primary home, one vehicle, and certain personal property typically do not count toward the asset limit.

How to Apply

Contact your local Division of Aging Services or the Georgia Department of Community Health to begin the application process. A care coordinator will conduct an assessment to determine functional eligibility (need for nursing home level of care). Financial eligibility is determined separately by the Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS). The application can take 30–90 days to process, so apply as early as possible.

Our free Legal & Financial Guide includes a step-by-step Medicaid application checklist for Georgia families.