The decision to place an elderly loved one in a nursing home can be emotionally draining. While Medicaid is intended to help families with the burdens of affording this long-term care, the process of securing coverage can be confusing. Planning ahead may allow you to protect assets while getting the healthcare your loved one needs.
Medicaid is a federal assistance program that follows strict income and asset guidelines. A Staten Island Medicaid lawyer could work with you to explain the relevant rules and help you develop a plan for your loved one. When it comes to applying for Medicaid benefits, we are here to help you every step of the way. To learn more about the types of government assistance available, contact the Law Offices of Louis P. Lepore to set up a free consultation.
With the typical cost of a nursing home in New York is over $12,000 per month, no one should have to shoulder these kinds of expenses to get their loved one the care they need. Medicaid is a federal health insurance program that subsidizes the cost of long-term care. For eligible individuals, Medicaid covers doctor’s visits, hospital care, medications, supplies, and medical equipment.
Medicaid can also cover the cost of care at a nursing home facility, like a hospital, rehabilitation center, or for caregivers that help at home. However, a person’s income and assets must satisfy certain requirements to qualify for this coverage. If you have questions about the Medicaid program and the benefits it offers, speak to a Staten Island attorney.
While Medicaid is a federal program, each state has different requirements that affect eligibility. To qualify for Medicaid in New York, an individual must:
Someone applying for Medicaid who is 65 or older must not have personal income exceeding $954 per month. If the person is married, the monthly income limit is $1,387. The overall cap on resources to qualify for Medicaid is $16,800. To make these requirements all the more complicated, rules for coverage change frequently.
Some people believe they must dispose of their hard-earned assets to meet these requirements for Medicaid coverage, but getting rid of property is not the only way to meet this threshold. Through the creation of a Medicaid trust, individuals may be able to protect their assets while ensuring they receive quality care. This is because transferred assets belong to the trust rather than the trust creator. A Staten Island lawyer could provide deeper insight into the rules governing Medicaid eligibility and explore strategies to help someone qualify for coverage.
Do not wait for a crisis to occur before discussing Medicaid planning. The rules for Medicaid are quite harsh. There is a five year look-back to see if you have given away your assets; there is a five year going forward penalty period if you have. Louis Lepore, Esq. will explain all of your options so that you may make thoughtful choices. Even if you and your spouse are not currently in need of long-term care, you may wish to plan for an unforeseen diagnosis such as Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Qualifying for Medicaid does not have to involve spending your assets down to nothing. By working with a dedicated attorney, you can ensure the protection of your assets, including your life savings and property, while maintaining your eligibility for Medicaid coverage. Our attorneys could assist you with qualifying for Medicaid and represent you throughout the application process. Contact a Staten Island Medicaid lawyer to schedule a free consultation.
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