You will not be required to contribute any of your own income toward the cost of your spouse's care. However, you may be able to keep a portion of the institutionalized spouse's income for your use. You can keep at least $2,465 per month of the total income of both spouses. Plus, if there are excess shelter expenses (rent, mortgage, taxes or insurance) you may be entitled to an allowance up to $3,853.50 per month.
Also, a special allowance is given monthly for any dependent family members living with the at-home spouse. Up to $822 per month can be protected for each dependent family member who lives with the spouse who remains at home. A dependent family member is defined as a minor or adult child, a parent, or a brother or sister of either the husband or wife who has been dependent on the couple because of legal, financial, or medical reasons.