Many senior citizens need long-term care at some point. Some senior citizens do not have family members who can give them the kind of care they need, and because of that as well as many other factors, they will need nursing home care.
But nursing home care and other long-term care arrangements are expensive. Medicaid can help fund these things, but you must meet the financial qualifications. Estate planning is critical for many people to be able to qualify. At Rogers Law, our elder law attorney in Texas will walk you through the Medicaid planning and estate planning process and help you begin planning for Medicaid early so that you and your spouse will qualify if or when the time comes and you need the help. Call 512.842.6573 to schedule a free consultation today.
What is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a federal program that provides long- term care, amongst other benefits, to individuals as well as families that are low income. Costs of this program are typically covered by a combination of federal and state funding. Services are provided to those with limited financial means so that they can obtain the medical care they need with limited out-of-pocket costs.
Planning for Medicaid in Texas
Before submitting an application for Medicaid, many people go through a process known as Medicaid planning. Medicaid planning is assessing a potential applicant's ability to receive Medicaid and taking steps to improve their chances of receiving it.
Why People Plan for Medicaid
There are multiple reasons why people engage in Medicaid planning in order to qualify for the program. Three common reasons are:
- To obtain coverage for the cost of long-term care that they would not otherwise be able to afford;
- To preserve assets that must otherwise be used or spent before qualifying for Medicaid;
- To preserve assets that may otherwise become part of Medicaid's estate recovery program;
- To qualify for Medicaid quickly, rather than wait months or years until all or most of the individual's assets have been depleted; and
- Because the Medicaid application process can be confusing, getting assistance from someone who understands how it works can prove very beneficial in the long run.
Medicaid planning benefits people who really need the services provided but fear they may not qualify -- or may not qualify at the time services are needed. If you do not have the financial resources or family members who are able to care for you when it becomes harder for you to do it yourself, you should speak to an attorney to plan your estate. Qualifying for Medicaid can be a big help just when you need it.
Medicaid Eligibility & Coverage in Texas
Medicaid planning exists to provide medical coverage to those people who need it most. Following are some of the main qualifications that must be met.
Income-Based Eligibility
Income is one of the primary factors considered in a Medicaid eligibility determination. Applicants must be below a certain threshold. This amount is calculated using taxable income and tax filing relationships. An elder law attorney may be able to assist the Applicant in qualifying for Medicaid through the use of a special income trust called a qualified income trust or Miller's trust. Thus, the reason it is important to speak with an elder law attorney in Texas.
There are cases where people who wish to qualify for Medicaid give their possessions to their children or other family members so that they may qualify for benefits. There are rules established to prevent this from happening, and it may not be in your best interest to give away your property. Thus, the reason it is important to speak with an elder law attorney in Texas.
How Rogers Law Can Help
If you or a loved one is in need of the long-term care that Medicaid helps cover, but you are unsure if you will be able to qualify, Rogers Law, an elder law attorney, can help. We know what the threshold amount is for qualification. If your income exceeds that amount, we will be able to work with you to formulate a plan to help you become qualified. One of the ways to accomplish the latter is through shielding your assets so they are no longer considered when your financial situation is assessed to determine Medicaid eligibility.
Contact Rogers Law, an Elder Law Attorney in Hays County for Medicaid Planning Today
At Rogers Law, our elder law attorney understands the importance of Medicaid eligibility for so many seniors who need long-term care. Unfortunately, so many people learn about estate planning for Medicaid when it is too late. Start early to avoid future problems and make sure you qualify for Medicaid when you most need it. Contact us either by using our online form or calling us directly at 512.842.6573. We will schedule a free consultation and help you get started on Medicaid planning today.
