No one looks forward to applying for Medicaid. It’s a complex and grueling process, the rules are always changing, and there are so many things that can go wrong. Unfortunately, as is often the case, there are companies that are only too willing to take advantage of this situation. These…
Elder law attorneys are often asked by clients about the difference between Medicare and Medicaid. While the names of these government-sponsored programs sound very similar, each has a distinct purpose and serves a specific audience. MEDICARE is a federal health insurance program. No matter what your income is, you can…
On March 31st, a change to Medicaid eligibility that was brought about by the onset of COVID-19, is scheduled to come to an end. A federal policy that had allowed states to temporarily suspend redetermination – the process by which renewal of Medicaid benefits for recipients is reconfirmed – will…
Transfers of assets generally raise a red flag when it comes to applying for Medicaid. They can trigger a penalty period, or a period of ineligibility. The good news is the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) will allow certain types of Medicaid asset transfers. For example, a family caregiver…
Applying for Medicaid benefits can be overwhelming. Between the paperwork, the ever-changing rules and regulations, and the inevitable waiting game that you’re up against, there’s a lot you need to know. Here is information to get you started and hopefully, to make it easier for you. 1. What do you…
If you want Medicaid in Connecticut to pay for your long-term care, one thing you should NOT do is give away your assets – unless you think you won’t need Medicaid within the next five years. When you apply for Medicaid for long-term care in either a nursing facility or…
While Medicare does not pay for long-term care, it will cover up to 100 days of care in a skilled nursing facility (SNF). There are, however, some fairly stringent and somewhat confusing qualifications patients must meet before Medicare will extend this benefit. Unfortunately, because there is some nuance to the…
By Lara Schneider-Bomzer Purchasing annuities is a good way for married couples to protect assets, but doing it wrong could mean huge penalties. Here is what you need to know about annuities as it relates to Medicaid planning in Connecticut: If your spouse is residing in a nursing home or…
Many a well-intentioned family member has taken on the responsibility of caring for an aging parent only to realize that they’ve committed to more than they can handle on their own. And many more people will need to step into a caregiver role in the coming years. The U.S. Census…
If you haven’t heard of the Medicare Savings Program, today may be your lucky day. You could save thousands of dollars a year on medical costs courtesy of the State of Connecticut and Medicaid. The Medicare Savings Program covers out-of-pocket expenses for premiums, deductibles co-pays and subsidizes your prescriptions drug…