Medicaid is a joint program of the states and federal government that provides health care coverage and long term care for people who don’t have other health insurance, or who have insurance that doesn’t cover everything they need. Unlike Medicare, which is for people over 65 or some people with disabilities, Medicaid has no age-requirement, but it is not available to everyone. Generally, Medicaid is available to people who have very low income or a disability. People of any age can get Medicaid if they meet all of the eligibility requirements.
If you think you may qualify for Medicaid, it is important to apply as soon as possible. You could save money on healthcare costs and prescriptions if you are eligible, but it could take some time for your application to be processed and your benefits to start. Whether you can get Medicaid depends on your income, assets and your health. You can prepare a Medicaid application and submit it yourself, but the process of eligibility determination is complicated, and submitting incorrect or incomplete information may reduce the chances of your being found eligible. It is a good idea to seek assistance in preparing a Medicaid application from someone who is experienced in Medicaid law and can make sure you answer all the questions on the application correctly. For people over 65, the application process is more complex than it is for younger people. Medicaid may pay for long term care, such as care in a nursing home, but for this type of application especially, it is advisable to seek professional help from an attorney when applying.
Medicaid pays more nursing home bills than any other single payer in the country, but in the past it was easier to apply and be deemed eligible. In an effort to reduce the national debt, the government has made it harder for people to qualify for Medicaid. Some states have chosen to expand Medicaid under the new Affordable Care Act health care law, but many states have not. The chances of being deemed eligible for Medicaid are reduced if mistakes are made on the application, or if information is missing or incorrectly reported.
Felinton Elder Law & Estate Planning Center can help you prepare a Medicaid application to give you the best chance of receiving Medicaid benefits. We understand the laws and have the experience and expertise to help you complete your application completely and accurately. If you think you may qualify for Medicaid, call us now for more information about Medicaid planning and the application preparation.