Yes! Medicaid pays for long-term care in a nursing home. It pays for long-term senior care in the home in a few states as well. However, Medicare does not pay for long-term care.
If I give away all my money and my house, will I qualify?
You will no longer qualify for Medicaid. There is a 5-year look-back law in place now. The United States government can find your money and force you to pay. Consult an elder law attorney to understand the suitable alternatives to “spend-down” assets to qualify for Medicaid as a low-income senior. One alternative to consider is that you can gift a beneficiary some of your assets, within limits, but remember that you will be relinquishing control over these assets. Also, bear in mind that the predominant form of elder abuse is financial, often committed by a family member. Spousal poverty protection laws have been ratified to permit the spouse of a senior who requires long-term nursing home care to maintain typically up to 50% of the couple’s assets.
How can I apply?
Applications are accessible through your state Medicaid program.
How soon will coverage begin?
Coverage can begin from 3-months before the application’s approval. Applications can occasionally take longer than anticipated. Ask about the typical approval time frame when submitting your initial application for Medicaid coverage to gauge the time before your approval.
What is the minimum asset requirement to be eligible?
The asset requirements are generally capped at $2,000.00. For the year 2020, a single individual who is 65 years older must have an income of less than $2,349.00 per month to qualify for Medicaid. This pertains to nursing home Medicaid, as well as assisted living (in states which cover it) and in-home care when it is provided through a state’s HCBS Waivers.
Does Medicaid long-term care have a limit?
No. Medicaid will continue to pay for long-term care in a nursing home for as long as a senior qualifies for requiring the care, even if this results in multiple years of care until death.
Schedule a Consultation Today to Discuss Your Medicaid-Related Concerns
Our team of attorneys has over 35 years of experience helping seniors with Medicaid qualifications. We welcome you to call the Voeller Law Firm today at 210-985-2741 to request a consultation and learn more about Medicaid benefits and if you qualify. We are proud to serve the greater San Antonio, Bexar County, Comal County, Guadalupe County, and South Texas areas.