Can a Nursing Home Take Your Home in Arkansas?

This is one of the questions I hear the most — and honestly, it’s one of the biggest fears Arkansas families face when a loved one needs long-term care: “Will the nursing home take our home?”

Let’s set the record straight. The truth is, a nursing home doesn’t actually take your home. But here’s where it gets tricky — if you or your spouse go into a nursing home and need Medicaid to help pay for care, the state can place a claim against your estate after you pass away to recover costs. That’s called estate recovery, and it can catch families completely off guard. Here’s the good news: you can protect your home in Arkansas — legally and ethically — even if one spouse is already in a facility. The key is knowing the right steps and working with someone who understands how Medicaid really works. I’ve seen too many families sell property, drain savings, and “spend down” everything they’ve worked for because someone told them they had to. That’s not true — and it’s not what Medicaid law actually requires. Arkansas has specific rules that allow you to keep your home and certain assets while still qualifying for Medicaid — you just have to structure things correctly. The earlier you plan, the more options you have. But even if you’re in crisis and someone’s already in a nursing home, there are still solutions.

So, can a nursing home take your home?

No. But the state can claim it later — unless you plan ahead.

If you or someone you love is facing a nursing home stay, please don’t make any big financial moves until you’ve talked to someone who truly understands Arkansas Medicaid planning. We help families every day protect their homes, savings, and peace of mind — without a dangerous spend-down.

Arkansas Senior Asset Planning (ASAP)

Protect Your Home. Protect Your Assets.

501-580-4210