Nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and in-home care come with overwhelming costs. Many Michigan seniors deplete their life savings just to afford the care they need as they age. This often leaves them unable to protect their spouse from financial hardship or pass down assets to their loved ones. Our Brighton Medicaid planning attorneys help families secure benefits to cover long-term care costs while preserving their financial future. With a deep understanding of Michigan’s Medicaid eligibility rules, we guide clients through both proactive planning and urgent crisis situations, ensuring they receive the care they deserve.

How Does Medicare Differ from Medicaid?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program available to individuals 65 and older or those under 65 with certain disabilities, regardless of income. It primarily covers hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescription medications, but it does not pay for long-term care, such as nursing home stays or extended in-home care. Many people assume Medicare will provide for all their healthcare needs as they age, only to be caught off guard by the high costs of long-term care services that Medicare does not cover.

Medicaid, however, is a needs-based program that provides coverage for qualifying individuals, including long-term care services like nursing home care, in-home assistance, and the Program for All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (P.A.C.E.). Unlike Medicare, Medicaid eligibility is determined by strict income and asset limits, and without proper planning, individuals may find themselves ineligible for assistance when they need it most. If you or a loved one may require long-term care in the future, it is crucial to understand the Medicaid application process and explore legal strategies to preserve assets while still qualifying for benefits.

How to Become Eligible for Medicaid in Michigan

Michigan’s Medicaid program has strict eligibility requirements, and having too many assets can lead to disqualification. Without proper legal planning from Mannor Law Group, real estate and retirement accounts may count toward these limits, making it harder for seniors to qualify. If your holdings exceed Michigan’s Medicaid thresholds, our experienced attorneys can develop legal strategies to protect your assets while preserving your eligibility. We understand the complexities of Medicaid planning and can help you navigate these regulations so you can secure the long-term care and support you need.

FAQs by Brighton Clients

What are the asset and income limits for Medicaid eligibility?

Medicaid programs have strict asset and income thresholds that applicants must meet to qualify for benefits. These limits vary by state and consider factors such as countable assets and monthly income. Understanding these thresholds is crucial for effective Medicaid planning.

How does the Medicaid look-back period affect asset transfers?

The Medicaid look-back period is a timeframe during which any asset transfers made by the applicant are scrutinized to prevent disqualification. Transfers made during this period may result in penalties or delays in eligibility. It’s essential to understand how this period works to avoid potential issues.

Can setting up a trust help in qualifying for Medicaid?

Establishing certain types of trusts, such as supplemental needs trusts, can be a strategy to protect assets while maintaining Medicaid eligibility. However, these trusts must meet specific legal criteria to be effective. Consulting with an experienced elder law attorney is advisable to navigate this complex area.

Proactive Medicaid Planning: Securing Long-Term Care Benefits

If you or a loved one is currently healthy, Medicaid eligibility may not be a pressing concern. However, planning ahead ensures that if long-term care becomes necessary, you won’t face financial strain.
Our team can help you develop a strategy to meet Medicaid’s asset requirements while protecting what you’ve worked hard for. Through estate planning tools, we can safeguard your savings and prevent the need to spend everything on care.
With careful planning, you can preserve assets while still qualifying for Medicaid benefits. Avoid giving away assets in an attempt to qualify, as improper transfers can lead to disqualification for an extended period.

Contact our Experienced Medicaid Planning Attorneys today for all your Medicaid needs, Emergencies included!

A sudden illness or a condition that has been worsening for years can quickly necessitate long-term care. When that moment arrives, you may have little to no time to prepare for the financial impact. Without proper legal guidance, this transition can become a major financial strain, especially if your loved one has too many assets to qualify for Medicaid. Our Grand Blanc Medicaid planning attorneys at Mannor Law Group can help implement legal strategies to secure eligibility and financial assistance. Learn how we’ve helped families like yours—visit our client testimonials.