Elder Law Services
 

Medicaid Planning
 Medicaid is the only government program that pays for nursing home care. Medicaid is different than Medicare. Medicare is health insurance that you are entitled to at age 65; Medicare has very limited, short-term benefits to pay for institutional skilled care. Medicaid is a welfare-based government benefit that pays for skilled nursing care. You must meet Federal and State guidelines as to wealth (or, more accurately, the lack of it) to qualify for Medicaid. Certain assets count and certain assets do not count as part of your wealth. There also is an income test. 

We help you apply for government benefits for the Medicaid institutional care program. Medicaid is a Federal program that is administered under State law. We are familiar with Florida Medicaid law and are experienced in creating plans to prevent you from losing your life savings to nursing home care.

Do not wait for a crisis to discuss 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. Learn your options so that you may make thoughtful choices.