I have Medicare and Medicaid in NJ. Can I get a car and not lose my Medicaid?

If you are making payments monthly, then you don't own the car outright. In other words, if you buy a car for $15,000 and give a down payment of $1,000, then your net assets are only $1,000 (i.e., $15,000 minus the amount you owe of $14,000). I would check Medicare and Medicaid to see how much you can have in net assets and still qualify for Medicare and Medicaid.

because to move I have to pay 1000 rent here is less  rent for retired seniors.

A leased car is not going to count against your Medicaid eligibility. MedicAid doesn't care if you spend your cash on a car, craft materials, or the casino. If you feel you can afford it, go ahead. By the way folks, not every state uses a caseload to manage the workload. Where I work, a worker's name is not on the letter, and the person on the phone when you call with questions should be able to answer your questions.

The word Medicaid comes up a lot on this forum. But please be aware that Medicaid rules for nursing home care and those for Health Insurance coverage only are much different.

Healthcare insurance depends on the individual income and those with families. Some people do hold down jobs, just can't afford the cost of healthcare. Some pay copays and deductables, others are listed with "special needs" and don't pay anything. And there is a difference on being on Medicare and Medicaid paying for supplimental and being on Full Medicaid.

I think you need to call your caseworker at the Social Service office. His/her name should be on your yearly paperwork you have to send in or the return envelope. I think they would understand you needing a new car after 20 yrs. Nephew can't drive so never had to deal with a car.

If you have Medicaid you are not allowed to have more than $2K in assets. How are you able to afford a new car lease?

In general, a car is considered an "exempt asset" for Medicaid. In other words, it's not part of the assets counted as part of your eligibility.

Talk to your caseworker or call the 800 Medicaid line. Or inquire through your local Area Agency on Aging.

Be sure to take into account increased insurance costs on a new leased car.

In the state where I live you can have as many cars as you want. I have known people to have 3 cars, Rv, and a boat. Go figure!

However, if your State Medicaid wants to see a registration than they are determining the value of the car, therefore, if you can afford a really nice or lease a car than you don't need Medicaid. But I think that they can't deny you having your car either!

How about buying a nice old car? Something that isn't to expensive!

I would call Medicaid and ask them how much can you spend on a car without losing your Medicaid.

Good Luck!

I believe that if Medicaid sees that you can afford to lease a new car that you may lose your Medicaid. Why not go ahead an move to a place with better public transportation?