Each applicant’s timeline varies based on individual circumstances. For those in a nursing home setting, approval can be as fast as 35-90 days; for those in assisted living or receiving care at home, the approval can range from 6-24 months.

Laws vary by state, but in Florida, Medicaid benefits can be used to cover long-term care costs in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or in-home nursing care. This level of protection ensures that your loved one’s needs are met, including a safe environment with a clean room, meals, medical supplies, and skilled supervisory care.

Medicaid recipients can receive all-inclusive care at a nursing home without paying out-of-pocket expenses. Care is not limited to room and board and on-site physician services. The all-inclusive nature of the coverage also includes laundry services, personal hygiene items, activity services, and more.

However, for Medicaid to pay for a nursing home, a person must meet eligibility requirements. Because Medicaid is generally only available to seniors over 65, other funding sources may have to be used to pay for a nursing home until Medicaid benefits become active.

You should begin thinking of your loved ones’ plans for Medicaid eligibility as soon as possible to ensure they do not start too late or fail to meet the requirements. Planning for Medicaid eligibility should begin at least five years before age 65. Medicaid eligibility can significantly affect ongoing living expenses and a family’s financial legacy. A Family First Firm attorney can combine estate planning and Medicaid planning to ensure eligibility.

A person’s income and assets determine Medicaid eligibility. For the elderly who carefully planned for retirement, significant income or accumulated assets could lead to denial of Medicaid benefits, which could then cause financial devastation in a long-term care setting. The income and asset threshold is relatively low and is evaluated each year.

The American Council on Aging has a preliminary Medicaid eligibility test one can take to determine if they meet the requirements; however, this test does not account for estate planning or crisis planning tools that can shield income and assets from the Medicaid eligibility equation. Working with a Medicaid lawyer can help to position your loved ones to qualify for these benefits, even if they have substantial income and assets.

Seniors who are “dual eligible” may have both Medicare and Medicaid. For people with Medicare only, Medicare will cover some of the cost of rehab in a nursing home. However, Medicare coverage is limited to short-term visits only. Full coverage applies for stays of up to 20 days. After that, as the stay extends up to 100 days, the patient is responsible for a significant portion of the fees—subject to whether they have a supplemental insurance policy. From the 101st day in a facility, Medicare no longer helps with the cost. Therefore, working with a Medicaid planning attorney is critical to prepare for long-term care in a nursing home.

Yes. If your loved one opts for in-home care, Medicaid can also cover the costs associated with promoting independent living.

Depending on your situation, you may prefer that a loved one stays at home as long as possible, but you may also have concerns about the costs associated with this option.

In independent living situations, Medicaid pays for:

• Daily living assistance
• Household chores (including meal preparation)
• Home modifications, such as wheelchair ramps and roll-in showers
• Vehicle modifications
• Adult daycare
• Medical supplies
• Transitional services

Discuss your unique goals and concerns about Medicaid planning with your Florida Medicaid attorney.

Supplemental Security Disability Income (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are the two types of disability benefits available. SSDI is based on your work history and how much you have contributed through payroll taxes. Instead, SSI is a flat rate and is based on your current financial situation.

Funds from your trust are meant to add to and not replace disability benefits. As a result, you can’t use your trust to fund living essentials that government benefits provide for, such as food, housing, clothing, or medical care. Doing so can reduce or eliminate your benefits. You can use it for things like education, therapy, or vacation expenses.

Medicaid and Medicare are both tax-funded government programs that help cover healthcare costs. Medicaid is for people with limited income and is managed by the states. Medicare, managed by the federal government, is for people who are 65 and older or have a disability. While Medicare is based on age, Medicaid is based on income.

You do not have to sell your home to qualify for Medicaid. As long as the proper conditions are met, your home is considered an exempt resource. However, if you gift or transfer the home, you may receive a period of ineligibility. In order to give away or transfer your home without penalty, you should consult with an experienced elder law attorney.