Q: Do I need to hire an attorney to complete a Medicaid application for my dad? He has some assets in his name, including his primary residence, which I have heard is automatically protected from Medicaid. A: The Medicaid health care system is a tricky system to navigate with its extensive rules, regulations and exceptions. …
Question: I was speaking with a friend and she mentioned that I should consult an attorney for asset protection. I do not have a taxable estate, but she referred to a 5-year lookback. I do not understand why I would need asset protection. Answer: Your friend was most likely referring to asset protection relating to …
While the beginning of the year is typically tax season, it is important to remember that property tax exemptions can be applied for at this time. There are different programs that homeowners should be aware of in order to potentially save with respect to property taxes. Most individuals are familiar with the STAR program which …
Question: My husband may require care in a Nursing facility. I was considering applying for Medicaid but I have heard that we could lose everything if we accept assistance through the Medicaid program. Is this correct? Answer: No, however this is a common misconception. Medicaid is a means tested program and accordingly applicants must meet …
Q: Will my Social Security deposit increase in the New Year? A: New Year, new income and asset thresholds! Each year the Social Security Administration determines if there will be an across the board Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) in Social Security and Supplemental Security Income. For 2020, this increase will be 1.6%. With this COLA, Medicare …
Question: My husband suffers from Alzheimer’s disease and may soon need a nursing home. I have been told that if he needs to go to a Nursing Home, they will take our house and I will have to give them all of his income, is this true? Answer: No, it does not have to be. Because Medicaid …
Question: My father was recently enrolled into a Managed Long Term Care Company. I am having a hard time navigating his benefits and getting the care at home that he needs. Are there any options? Answer: Yes, there are options. First, a basic understanding of the Managed Long Term Care Program (“MLTC”) is helpful when …
Question: My mother is elderly and gifted her house and a large bank account to me so that she could apply for Medicaid should her long-term care costs exceed her remaining resources. I am currently completing a FAFSA form for my son who is going to college next year. Will these gifts from my mother …
Question: I am considering applying for Community Medicaid for my mom in order to cover the cost of home health aides. I heard that Community Medicaid might pay for certain supplies my mom could use in her home, is that true? Answer: Yes. The Community Based (Homecare) Medicaid program can assist families in paying for …
Question: I am currently paying for caregivers to come to my house and assist me with day to day tasks. My friends tell me that I should apply for Community Medicaid but I own my home. Does the equity in my home disqualify me for Community Medicaid? Answer: The answer is technically that you can …
