Medicaid planning is one of the most specialized and detailed fields in elder care. Knowing how to filter income and assets through this system is paramount when planning for the long-term care of a loved one. This is why people frequently ask whether Medicaid can be applied to nursing home costs.
Medicaid for nursing home care may be granted to Florida residents who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled. Individuals must apply for Medicaid coverage and demonstrate that they qualify before being ruled eligible for Florida Medicaid benefits.
At Finley Williams Law, PA, St. Petersburg Elder Law Attorney Melissa Williams can help you navigate the often complex and confusing process of planning for Nursing Home care. Call (727) 280-6837 or contact Finley Williams Law, PA hereto learn more.
Does Medicaid Cover Nursing Home Costs?
Florida’s Medicaid Institutional Care Program (ICP) covers a portion of nursing home care costs for those who qualify under state Medicaid regulations. To qualify for Medicaid in Florida, you must meet an income and asset test and be able to demonstrate that nursing home level of care is medically necessary.
Many people believe they will never be able to qualify for Medicaid benefits for nursing home care because they have too many assets or too much income. An elder law attorney can work with you to create a detailed strategic plan to restructure your assets and income to help you qualify to receive Medicaid benefits.
How to Apply Medicaid Towards Nursing Home Costs
Not all nursing homes are enrolled in the Medicaid program, and not all nursing homes that are enrolled are guaranteed to have beds available, so it is important to verify this information before you apply. You may also have to make a co-payment, referred to as “private/self-pay” on a nursing home, to cover a portion of your bill, or to secure a “bed hold” at said nursing home should you have to leave it for a time, even if you have Medicaid.
Because of the complications and red tape involved in applying for Medicaid benefits, it is advisable to enlist the assistance of an elder law attorney to help you navigate the process of applying for benefits that can help cover the cost of nursing home care.
Do you or a loved one need nursing home care? Are you looking for assistance with obtaining Medicaid benefits? At Finley Williams Law, PA, we can help. By focusing on education and advocacy, we help guide our clients through everything from estate planning to elder law. Call (727) 280-6837 or contact our St. Petersburg elder law attorney here to learn more.