Medicaid’s Give And Take

The fear that the government could one day seize their homes is deterring some people from signing up for Medicaid.

Medicaid comes with a lot of give and take. It is a safety net for those who need it, but it does come with its drawbacks. One drawback many are now discovering is “Medicaid Asset Recovery.”

So, what is “Medicaid Asset Recovery”? In layman’s terms: after you pass away the government can recoup the benefits you received from Medicaid by taking from your remaining assets, which usually means your house.

The Washington Post recently touched upon the new anxiety about the Medicaid Estate Recovery program in an article titled “Little-known aspect of Medicaid now causing people to avoid coverage.” Bottom line: Medicaid Asset Recovery is an important reality for families to understand.

Now, asset recovery has been a part of the Medicaid program for quite some time. It has been the means by which the government recoups costs for expensive Medicaid coverage for long-term care, at least when there was no surviving spouse or minor child involved. However, the law has expanded so states can recoup losses for any Medicaid benefits provided after age 55.

Since it is “Medicaid” (a shared Federal-State program), states vary in their use and tolerance of the asset recovery procedure. Nevertheless, as a family member caring for an elderly loved one it does present a potential dilemma between receiving Medicaid benefits and keeping the house. If the house is actually a “home” with sentimental value to the family, or even if it is a valuable property worth bequeathing, then there are many factors to consider and maybe even more alternatives to explore.

In the end, however, the care of an elderly loved one is never less important than their house or some of their other assets. On the other hand, this is a prime example of when your family should consult with an elder law attorney sooner to plan for the best financial and legal solution for your family later on.

For additional information on Medicaid planning in Houston, please visit our website.

Reference: The Washington Post (January 23, 2014) “Little-known aspect of Medicaid now causing people to avoid coverage”