Medicaid Planning & Elder Law

Many people are concerned about the cost of nursing home care — and rightfully so. The cost of private nursing care typically exceeds $6,000 per month. Qualifying for Medicaid can reduce the amount of your out-of-pocket expenses for nursing care, but unfortunately many people make costly mistakes managing assets and property on their own. If you, your spouse or your parent is in a position where eligibility for federal health benefits is a concern, call Cuyahoga County Medicaid planning lawyer Bradley Hull IV of Cavitch, Familo & Durkin Co. LPA. He will work with you and your spouse in planning for the expenses of long-term care. He can also discuss strategies with you to protect resources for the rest of the family.

The Difference Between Medicare And Medicaid

Understanding the basic differences between the major joint federal-state health care programs is an important first step when considering a Medicaid eligibility plan.

• Medicare: A federal insurance program for all persons 65 and over and for certain disabled persons. It provides for the payment for medical needs for all persons age 65 and over, regardless of financial resources or income. Medicare coverage, however, provides limited coverage in the case of an illness, long-term care in nursing homes or adult care facilities.
• Medicaid: A federal health insurance program that is based on income and assets. There is not an age restriction and if you are eligible, nearly all your medical needs, including nursing home care, are covered.

It may be possible for you to qualify for Medicaid benefits that will cover your potential stay in a nursing home or care center. Determining your eligibility can be difficult and depend on many individual factors so it is important that you work with an elder law attorney who understands the Medicaid laws. Attorney Bradley Hull IV will talk with you and fully review the assets and income available and likely to be considered in the application. He will help you determine what assets are exempt, as well as the assets that can be legally transferred. The goal for each client is to avoid wasteful spending or an estate recovery lien.

Transferring Assets To Become Eligible For Benefits

Many people believe that one way to qualify for benefits is to reduce their assets, and they may sell or give away their property or savings. This can be a costly mistake because of the rules that govern how you can dispose of your assets. When you apply for benefits, all the transactions or gifts that you conducted for the previous five years will be considered when determining your eligibility. Taking action without a full understanding of the potential impact on your future eligibility can be a costly move. Depending on your situation, it may be possible to preserve some or most assets for the nursing home resident’s spouse. Qualifying for Medicaid can significantly ease the cost burden to you or a family member for expensive nursing home care.

A Lifetime Of Commitment To Ohio

Attorney Bradley Hull IV was born and raised in Ohio, and he is dedicated to serving the legal needs of the people where he grew up. He believes that quality legal service should be accessible to everyone. To this end, he offers his clients:

• One-on-one individual care
• House calls by appointment
• Free initial consultations
• Flexible scheduling

If you need the services of a Medicaid planning lawyer, contact elder care planning Attorney Bradley Hull IV of Cavitch, Familo & Durkin Co. LPA today to help you navigate the maze of Medicaid eligibility regulations.