Nursing Home and Medicaid Myths

There are many myths about nursing homes and Medicaid that can hold people back from doing proper planning, or worse, plan improperly which can put their assets at risk.

Here are a few of the most common myths about nursing homes and Medicaid to give you the information you need to plan with confidence.

Medicaid is only for lower income individuals.

TRUTH: Many middle-class families can also benefit from Medicaid, especially for long-term care.

Medicaid pays for the nursing home entirely, allowing you to keep your regular income. 

TRUTH: Most of the medicaid recipient’s income will go to the nursing home, with Medicaid paying the difference.

Medicaid planning can only be done before going into a nursing home. 

TRUTH: It’s never too late to start Medicaid planning, there are asset protection options that can be completed even after moving into a nursing home and/or qualification for Medicaid.

If you have Medicare, you don’t need Medicaid.

TRUTH: Medicare only covers a maximum of 100 days of a nursing home, it doesn’t cover long-term care or assisted living expenses, which is where Medicaid can help.

I have to spend all of my accounts down to get Medicaid.

TRUTH: There are some assets, like retirement accounts, that if set up correctly won’t be considered by Medicaid when determining your eligibility. Spouses are also entitled to retain a significant amount of assets in their name. Ultimately, what assets you have and how they are set up will determine whether Medicaid will count them against you. 

If I go into a nursing home, they’ll “take my house.”

TRUTH: Medicaid will only “take your house” if your house has to go through probate after your death. There are ways to avoid this.

You don’t need a lawyer for Medicaid planning.

TRUTH: While not required, an experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex rules of Medicaid eligibility and asset protection and find ways to protect assets you won’t discover on your own.

Ready to begin your estate planning or have further questions about Medicaid? Schedule an initial consultation to get answers to your questions. It’s never too early or too late to plan for your care.