With Medicaid, it is absolutely critical to consider what repercussions may occur as a result of every decision. Let me introduce you to Dorothy.
Many years ago, Dorothy had been married to a gentleman named Tom. Throughout their lives, they worked hard and that hard work sure paid off – they had grown a nest egg! Sadly, though, Tom was diagnosed with cancer and after battling for several years, he passed away. As a consequence, the medical bills swallowed up a large portion of their nest egg.
Dorothy, at this point in her 80s, decided that it would be in her best interests to move into an assisted living community. Prior to moving, however, she sought advice from an acquaintance. Upon a quick glance at her assets, her acquaintance advised that she transfer her home to her daughters, pay off any debts, and that she could qualify for Medicaid because she did not have much in cash in the bank.
Unfortunately, the advice she received – specifically transferring her home to her daughters – created a “Medicaid penalty” which made her unable qualify for Medicaid.
Thankfully, a team member at the assisted living community insisted that Dorothy call Hunter Estate & Elder Law. I consider myself the lucky one that sweet Dorothy landed on my calendar! Upon walking into the conference room, I immediately felt Dorothy’s anxiety. It was in her shaking voice, her cold hand shake, and just her overall demeanor. I bent down, softly grabbed her shaking hands, and said, “Dorothy, I’m Jenny. I promise that I am going to help get you in the right direction today.”
You know, plain and simple – Dorothy just needed help. She needed help navigating the Medicaid maze, she needed help from a professional that could appropriately advise her, and she needed someone just to “do it for her.” When Dorothy and I began talking more in-depth, she tearfully said, “Jenny, I just want to move into the community and I just want to leave my daughters a little somethin’ for an inheritance. Something. Anything.”
With strategic planning and qualified advice, Dorothy is in process of moving into the assisted living community; Medicaid will be paying for her stay; and her daughters will likely end up getting that “little something of an inheritance.” While I have never been that great at the game of Chess (I’m more of a Checkers lady, myself!), I think I won this time around.
If you have questions about Medicaid planning we are offering a FREE Lunch & Learn on two convenient dates and two different locations. Seats are limited so make sure to grab a spot today by clicking here now.
All the best,
Jennifer L. Rozelle
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