ABILITY TO PAY:

ABILITY TO PAY: The director or the governing board of each program, as appropriate, shall investigate or cause to be investigated the financial ability of each person, their estate, and all other persons legally liable for the cost of care of the person. The charges assessed shall be in accordance with the ability of the person to pay. The determination shall not place an undue hardship on any patient or person legally responsible for such a patient. The value of a homestead shall not be considered in determining the ability to pay. The number of dependents of a patient or the party legally responsible for such patient shall be considered in determining ability to pay The value of real and/or personal property may also be considered. If it is determined that a person receiving services is unable to pay the total fee, the Department shall collect any amount such person is able to pay.