Medicaid

When you apply for Medicaid long-term care coverage, the state reviews asset transfers you made during the previous five years (the 'look-back period'). Transfers for less than fair market value during that window can trigger a penalty period during which Medicaid will not pay for your care.

Read more: Medicaid Planning Basics for Long-Term Care

Gifts and transfers below market value during the look-back period trigger penalties — the state treats them as attempts to qualify artificially. There are limited exceptions (for example, transfers to a spouse or a disabled child), but the rules are strict and state-specific.

Read more: Medicaid Planning Basics for Long-Term Care

Medicaid generally does not force the sale of a home while the applicant or their spouse lives there, but states can pursue 'estate recovery' — claiming reimbursement from the estate after death — with rules that vary by state. Planning around the home is one of the most state-specific parts of Medicaid planning.

Read more: Medicaid Planning Basics for Long-Term Care

Ideally years before care is needed — at least five years ahead, to clear the look-back period. Crisis planning (when someone is already in a facility) still has legal options, but they are narrower and more expensive.

Read more: Medicaid Planning Basics for Long-Term Care

Only short-term skilled care after a hospital stay, for a limited time. Ongoing custodial care is generally not covered by Medicare.

Read more: Medicare vs. Medicaid

People with limited income and resources, under rules that vary by state. It is the largest payer of long-term nursing home care in the U.S.

Read more: Medicare vs. Medicaid

Yes — people who qualify for both are called 'dual eligible,' with Medicaid helping cover Medicare costs and services Medicare doesn't cover.

Read more: Medicare vs. Medicaid

Medicare is federal health insurance primarily for people 65 and older, regardless of income. Medicaid is a joint federal-state program for people with limited income and resources. Some people qualify for both. Crucially, Medicare generally does not cover long-term custodial care in nursing homes, while Medicaid is the primary payer for it.

Read more: Medicare & Medicaid Lawyers

States are required to seek recovery from the estates of certain deceased Medicaid beneficiaries for long-term care costs. Protections exist — for example, when a surviving spouse or certain dependents live in the home. The details vary by state.

Read more: Medicare & Medicaid Lawyers

No. This site provides general educational information and is not a law firm. Nothing here is legal advice about your specific situation.

Read more: Medicare & Medicaid Lawyers