Medicaid Eligibility: Do I Have To Sell My House To Qualify?

Medicaid Eligibility: A Guide To Understanding The Facts (And The Myths).

A discussion with Shannon Miller, founding attorney at The Miller Elder Law Firm, Genna Fasullo LaPeer, associate attorney at The Miller Elder Law Firm, and Star Bradbury, Senior Living Strategies Consultant. We will explore how to qualify for Medicaid using the practical tips that most people do not know.

As a review, long-term care in Florida costs between $12-$14K per month. Most people are unaware of the costs associated with assisted living or skilled nursing care and are unprepared when long-term care becomes necessary.

Myths About Medicaid Eligibility

The myths and truths about paying for long-term care:Medicaid, as a government program aimed at providing healthcare assistance to individuals with limited financial resources, often becomes a subject of confusion and misinformation. In this article, we aim to debunk some of the common myths surrounding Medicaid eligibility to help you gain a clearer understanding of the program.

Private pay-If you do not have Medicaid planning, this may be your only choice. Truth. Medicaid-Many people do not believe they qualify because they have too many assets. Partial Myth. Florida has many tools and strategies to qualify you for Medicaid even if your assets are over $2K. Medicaid eligibility may be within your reach!

Medicare-Many seniors believe Medicare or a Medicare supplement will pay for long-term care. Medicare DOES NOT cover any long-term care nor do its supplements! Myth. It does, however, cover hospital stays and up to 100 days of rehab services if you were admitted for at least 72 hours.

Medicaid is only for low-income individuals. Fact: While Medicaid primarily targets low-income individuals and families, eligibility criteria can vary by state. Some states have expanded their Medicaid programs to cover individuals with higher income levels. Additionally, Medicaid provides coverage for certain groups, such as pregnant women, children, and individuals with disabilities, regardless of income.

I must be unemployed to qualify for Medicaid. Fact: Medicaid eligibility is not solely based on employment status. While income is a significant factor, being employed does not automatically disqualify you from Medicaid. In fact, some states offer Medicaid coverage for working individuals with disabilities or provide options for individuals who meet specific income and asset criteria.

I own a home, so I cannot qualify for Medicaid. Fact: Owning a home does not automatically disqualify you from Medicaid. Medicaid has specific rules regarding the valuation and equity of your primary residence. In many cases, your primary residence is considered an exempt asset. However, it’s important to consult with an elder law attorney or Medicaid specialist to understand how home ownership may impact your eligibility in your specific state.

I need to spend all my assets to qualify for Medicaid. Fact: While Medicaid has asset limits, it does not mean you must deplete all your assets to qualify. Medicaid planning strategies, such as establishing trusts, can help protect some of your assets while still meeting eligibility requirements. It’s essential to consult with an elder law attorney or Medicaid specialist who can guide you on legal ways to preserve your assets while qualifying for Medicaid.

Medicaid is only for older adults. Fact: While Medicaid does provide coverage for older adults who require long-term care, it also serves various other groups, including children, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities. Medicaid eligibility is not limited to a specific age group and can vary based on income, household size, and specific circumstances.

Conclusion: Understanding the truth behind common myths about Medicaid eligibility is crucial for making informed decisions. Medicaid rules and regulations can be complex, and it’s advisable to consult with professionals who specialize in Medicaid or elder law. By debunking these myths, we hope to provide clarity and encourage individuals to explore the options available to them for accessing affordable healthcare through Medicaid.

We have helped hundreds of clients qualify for Medicaid making sure the process is completed with accuracy and adhering to all requirements. Contact us to set up an appointment for Medicaid planning for you.

How To Ensure Your Financial Security With Medicaid Qualification

Navigating the intricacies of Medicaid eligibility can be a complex task, especially for older adults seeking assistance with their healthcare costs. As you age, it becomes crucial to ensure your financial security and access to quality healthcare.

1. Understanding Medicaid: Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides healthcare coverage for individuals with limited financial resources. It serves as a safety net for older adults who require long-term care services or assistance with medical expenses.
2. Income and Asset Limits: To qualify for Medicaid, individuals must meet specific income and asset limits. An elder law attorney can help assess your financial situation and guide you through strategies to structure your assets legally, such as establishing trusts or using permissible spend-down strategies.
3. The Five-Year Look-Back Period: Medicaid imposes a five-year look-back period to evaluate any asset transfers or gifts. Working with an elder law attorney well in advance allows you to plan ahead and minimize potential penalties during the application process.
4. Protecting the Community Spouse: For married couples, Medicaid provides protections for the community spouse—the one who remains in the community while their partner receives care. An elder law attorney can assist in safeguarding the community spouse’s income and assets, ensuring they can maintain their standard of living.
5. Utilizing Medicaid Planning Strategies: Engaging an elder law attorney offers the opportunity to employ Medicaid planning strategies. These strategies involve converting countable assets into exempt assets, utilizing annuities, and creating caregiver agreements, all of which can improve eligibility for Medicaid.

Conclusion: Medicaid eligibility requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of the eligibility criteria. Seeking guidance from an experienced elder law attorney can make a significant difference in your Medicaid application process. By working together, you can navigate the complexities of Medicaid, protect your assets, and ensure access to the healthcare services you need as you age.

if we can help you navigate Medicaid eligibility, please contact our office for a consultation. This is something you cannot do on your own. It’s best to rely on professionals who know the law.