Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Community Medicaid?
A: Community Medicaid covers care and services that help you remain in your home, such as home health aides, personal care, and medical supplies. It does not cover nursing home stays.
Q: What is Nursing Home (Institutional) Medicaid?
A: Nursing Home Medicaid provides coverage for individuals who require long-term care in a skilled nursing facility. The application process is more complex and involves a lookback period of your financial history and asset transfers.
Q: How do I know if I qualify for Medicaid?
A: Eligibility depends on your income, assets, and medical needs. The rules can be confusing, but our team reviews your situation, prepares the paperwork, and ensures your application meets all requirements.
Q: What is a pooled income trust, and why would I need one?
A: If your income is above Medicaid’s limit, a pooled income trust allows you to remain eligible by directing excess income into the trust. Those funds can still be used to pay your living expenses, such as rent or utilities.
Q: Do I have to spend all of my assets to qualify for Medicaid?
A: No. With proper planning, you can protect many of your assets while still qualifying for Medicaid benefits. We specialize in strategies that preserve what you’ve earned while securing the care you need.
Q: How often do I need to recertify for Medicaid?
A: Medicaid benefits must be renewed each year. The recertification process requires updated financial and personal documents. We handle the entire process to prevent any gaps in coverage.
Q: What happens if my Medicaid application is denied?
A: You have the right to request a Fair Hearing to appeal the decision. We represent clients in these hearings, presenting evidence and advocating for approval or reinstatement of benefits.
Q: How long does the Medicaid application process take?
A: Timelines vary depending on the type of Medicaid and the completeness of the documentation. Applications can take several weeks to months. By managing every step, we help minimize delays and speed up approvals.
Q: Can I apply for Medicaid on my own:
A: Yes, but many people find the process overwhelming due to strict rules and extensive paperwork. Having an experienced team ensures accuracy, avoids costly mistakes, and increases your chances of approval.
Q: How do I get started with Medicaid Access Partners?
A: We offer a free consultation to review your needs and explain your options. From there, we guide you through applications, trusts, recertifications or hearings, so you can focus on your health and family.
Q: What is the Medicaid “lookback period”?
A: For Nursing Home Medicaid, the state reviews your financial records for the past five years to see if assets were transferred below market value. Certain transfers can result in a penalty period of ineligibility.
Q: What documents are required for a Medicaid application?
A: Common documents include bank statements, proof of income, tax returns, identification, insurance cards, and information about property or other assets. We provide a complete checklist and assist with gathering all paperwork.
Q: Can my spouse keep income and assets if I go into a nursing home?
A: Yes. Medicaid has special rules for “spousal impoverishment,” allowing the healthy spouse to retain certain income and assets. We help structure finances so both spouses are protected.