How is a home maintenance needs allowance (HMNA) determined?
Per regulations at 130 CMR 520.026(D), MassHealth allows the deduction for HMNA for maintenance of the member’s home when a competent medical authority certifies in writing that a single individual with no eligible dependents is likely to return home within six months after the month of admission. The HMNA is equal to 100 percent of the federal poverty level. As indicated in Eligibility Operations Memo 09-09, in order for the HMNA to be given, the MEC worker must receive an SC-1 form with the short-term block checked, a physician’s signature, and clinical eligibility approval stating short-term stay (Block 21). The HMNA is to be given for a continuous period of institutionalization. If a member returns to the community and remains there for a 30-day period and then reenters a nursing facility for another short-term stay, an HMNA may be given again. There is no limit to the number of HMNAs an applicant or member may receive, as long as there is a break from institutionalization of at le
