Hopefully, all of you reading this already know how involved our Beck, Lenox & Stolzer Estate Planning and Elder Law attorneys are at assisting clients with Medicaid Planning. To-date, we have helped approximately 3,000 families successfully apply for Medicaid for Nursing Home expenses. Although you don’t have to get an attorney to help you apply for Medicaid, an elder law attorney who thoroughly understands Medicaid eligibility can be very valuable in ensuring a smooth and successful application process. Here are some common questions about applying for Medicaid.
Film Daily’s recent article “Do You Need a Lawyer to Apply for Medicaid?” looks at some of the Frequently Asked Questions about using a lawyer to apply for Medicaid and discusses the benefits of seeking legal assistance.
- Will hiring a lawyer guarantee my Medicaid application’s approval? Hiring a lawyer doesn’t guarantee approval of your Medicaid application. Still, a seasoned Medicaid lawyer can increase your chances of success by providing guidance, ensuring accurate documentation, and addressing any issues or appeals that may arise.
- Are there income limits to qualify for Medicaid? The Medicaid program has income limits that vary by state and household size. A person’s eligibility is determined based on their income in relation to the federal poverty level. Speaking with a Medicaid attorney can help you understand the specific income limits in your state.
- Can I apply for Medicaid on my own without legal assistance? You can apply for Medicaid on your own without legal assistance, as the application process is designed to be accessible to individuals. But if you have complex financial situations or face challenges during the application process, hiring a Medicaid attorney can be beneficial. Often, even a small mistake on an application can cause the Medicaid office to deny your claim, and you may not realize what had been done wrong.
- How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid? The timeframe for Medicaid application approval can vary depending on various factors, such as the state you reside in and the complexity of your case. You should submit your application as soon as possible and provide all the necessary documentation to avoid delays. An exception to the “soon as possible” is that you must be in a Medicaid pending bed in a nursing home before you can apply for Medicaid.
- What should I do if my Medicaid application is denied? If your program application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Working with a qualified lawyer experienced in Medicaid appeals can help you get through the appeals process, gather additional evidence, and present a strong case.
- Can an attorney assist with Medicaid planning for long-term care? Yes, lawyers specializing in Medicaid planning can help you devise a strategy for long-term care that protects your assets while ensuring access to necessary healthcare services. These attorneys can help structure your finances and guide you through applying for long-term care benefits. This is the area of Medicaid planning in which Beck, Lenox & Stolzer specializes.
While hiring a lawyer when applying for Medicaid is not mandatory, their expertise can be invaluable in navigating the complexities of the program. If you or a loved one is at risk for needing long-term care, or is already paying privately in a nursing home, read more about Medicaid on our website. You can also contact us on our site to schedule a complimentary phone consultation with a Beck, Lenox & Stolzer elder law attorney.
Film Daily (July 25, 2023) “Do You Need a Lawyer to Apply for Medicaid?”
