Long-term care expenses can quickly become overwhelming, forcing many Michigan seniors to use their entire life savings just to afford necessary assistance. Without the right planning, this financial strain can leave a surviving spouse without support and eliminate any inheritance for loved ones. Our Ann Arbor Medicaid planning attorneys are skilled in helping families qualify for benefits that cover long-term care costs. We understand Michigan’s Medicaid system inside and out and provide tailored solutions for both proactive planning and crisis management.

What You Need to Know About the Differences Between Medicare and Medicaid

Medicare provides healthcare coverage for individuals 65 and older as well as younger individuals with disabilities. It helps cover medical expenses such as hospital visits, outpatient care, and prescription drugs, but it does not pay for long-term care. Many seniors are shocked to learn that Medicare will not cover nursing home stays or in-home care, leaving them scrambling for financial solutions when they need assistance.

Medicaid, on the other hand, is a state and federally funded program that helps eligible individuals afford essential care, including nursing home stays, in-home assistance, and P.A.C.E. enrollment. Qualifying for Medicaid requires meeting specific financial criteria, which can be difficult without advanced planning. By working with an experienced elder law attorney, families can develop strategies to protect assets while ensuring access to necessary long-term care services.

Understanding Medicaid Eligibility in Michigan

Strict Medicaid regulations in Michigan mean that excess assets can disqualify applicants from receiving necessary care. Without proper legal planning from Mannor Law Group, property and retirement accounts may push you over the eligibility limit, making it difficult to qualify. If you have more assets than Medicaid allows, our experienced attorneys can create a plan to legally protect your wealth while ensuring you still qualify for benefits. We are dedicated to helping seniors navigate Medicaid planning and secure the care they need.

FAQs by Ann Arbor Clients

How Do Medicaid’s Income and Asset Limits Work?

Strict asset and income thresholds determine whether an applicant qualifies for Medicaid benefits, with each state setting its own criteria. Countable assets and monthly income play a role, making it critical to understand these limits for Medicaid planning.

What penalties can result from Medicaid’s look-back period on asset transfers?

During Medicaid’s look-back period, asset transfers are closely examined to ensure applicants meet eligibility standards. Any non-compliant transfers can lead to penalties, making careful planning essential for securing benefits without delays.

Will putting assets in a trust help me qualify for Medicaid benefits?

Properly structured trusts, including supplemental needs trusts, can provide a way to shield assets while still meeting Medicaid’s eligibility rules. Since these trusts must follow strict legal standards, working with a skilled elder law attorney is highly recommended.

Protecting Your Wealth and Care Through Medicaid Planning

You might not be considering Medicaid if you or your loved one is in good health, but taking action now can prevent financial challenges in the future. Long-term care is expensive, and many families are unprepared for the costs.
Our legal team helps you structure your assets in a way that preserves savings while ensuring Medicaid eligibility. We use estate planning strategies that allow you to qualify for benefits without exhausting your resources.
This ensures that when you need care, your financial future remains secure. Avoid gifting assets in an attempt to qualify—Medicaid has strict rules, and improper transfers can lead to lengthy periods of ineligibility.

Need Medicaid assistance? Our dedicated attorneys are ready to help with all your planning needs, even in emergencies—call now!

The need for long-term care can arise suddenly or build over time, but the financial burden is immediate. Families without a plan may struggle to find solutions, especially when a loved one’s assets exceed Medicaid limits. Without legal guidance, qualifying for benefits can be complicated and stressful. At Mannor Law Group, our Grand Blanc Medicaid planning attorneys can help navigate this process efficiently. See how we’ve helped others in similar situations—visit our client testimonials.