Applying For Long-Term Care Medicaid In Florida
Long-term care Medicaid is often a critical recourse to assist with paying for care needs at home, in an assisted living/memory care facility, or in a skilled nursing facility (nursing home). At Feldman & Feldman, Counsellors at Law, P.A., we understand the complexities of qualifying and applying for long-term care Medicaid in Florida while helping clients protect their hard-earned assets.
As a boutique firm, each of our attorneys are familiar with our Medicaid planning matters and work directly with our clients on a day-to-day basis, providing our clients with comprehensive support and a team-centered approach. In fact, before scheduling a formal consultation, prospective clients will first speak with an attorney without charge to discuss their concerns and to learn how we can be of assistance. This hands-on approach sets us apart from firms that rely on non-attorney staff for initial screenings.
What Is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program providing health-related benefits to eligible individuals. In Florida, Medicaid offers essential medical services to those who meet specific criteria, including doctor visits, hospital stays, preventive care and long-term care services. Understanding Medicaid is a crucial part of comprehensive Medicaid planning. Medicaid planning includes both long term care planning, where benefits are not imminently needed, as well as crisis planning, where benefits must be obtained as quickly as possible.
Who Is Qualified To Apply For Long-Term Care Medicaid?
Eligibility for Florida Medicaid depends on various factors, including:
- Age (those over age 65 or disabled individuals under 65);
- Income and assets that meet specific criteria;
- Florida residency;
- Requiring sufficient assistance with activities of daily living (“ADLs”);
Specific requirements can be complex and may vary based on individual circumstances. As Florida elder law attorneys, we assist our clients with qualifying for Medicaid when needed to help pay for their care needs.
How Can A Florida Elder Law Attorney Help You When Applying For Medicaid?
An attorney can:
- Navigate the complex eligibility rules for Medicaid benefits;
- Ensure accurate and complete submission of the Medicaid application;
- Advise on strategies to protect assets while qualifying for Medicaid;
- Assist with situations where income exceeds the Medicaid limit (such as preparation of a qualified income trust);
- Ensure that non-Medicaid spouses receive their full allowance of income diversion from the Medicaid spouse;
- Represent you in appeals, in the event of a denial or delay in application processing;
- Provide personalized guidance throughout the application process;
- Help you understand how receipt of Medicaid benefits might affect your overall estate plan;
Our team approach allows us to offer comprehensive support with all aspects of the application process.
Common Medicaid Application Mistakes
When applying for Medicaid, it’s crucial to avoid these frequent errors that can delay or derail your application:
- Incomplete or inaccurate information on the application;
- Failing to provide all required documentation;
- Misunderstanding asset and income limits;
- Overlooking spousal allowances;
- Improper timing of asset transfers;
- Failing to disclose all asset transfers within the lookback period;
Many Medicaid applications are denied due to these common mistakes. Working with an elder law attorney to help avoid these errors can significantly improve your chances of approval.
Reasons For Medicaid Application Denial
Even if you avoid common mistakes, your application or benefits may still be denied for various reasons, including:
- Exceeding income or asset limits;
- Failing to meet age or disability requirements;
- Insufficient medical need for long-term care services;
- Asset transfers with the five-year look-back period;
- Lack of U.S. citizenship or qualified noncitizen status;
Proper Medicaid planning can help address these potential issues before they lead to denial. Our attorneys can guide you through the application process, helping you avoid common pitfalls and address any concerns that might result in a denial.
What Should You Do If Your Application Is Denied?
If your Medicaid application is denied:
- Review the denial notice carefully;
- Gather any additional documentation requested by the caseworker;
- File a timely appeal in order to preserve or protect benefits as of the date of application or denial;
- Consider seeking legal representation for the appeals process;
Our attorneys can guide you through these steps, help you understand the reasons for denial and advocate on your behalf throughout the appeals process.
We Can Help You With Your Application: Call Today
Applying for Medicaid can seem like a daunting and confusing task, but you don’t have to face it alone and unaided. Our lawyers at Feldman & Feldman are here to support you throughout the process. Call us at 954-228-6074 or send an email to arrange a consultation. We return all calls and emails within 24 hours, ensuring you receive prompt attention to your Medicaid concerns and can move forward with confidence.