Blog Archives
When NOT to file a Medicaid application
There is a subtle but important distinction between the Medicaid look-back rule and the ineligibility rule – while the look-back period is limited to five years, the ineligibility period is not. Think about that. If you file a Medicaid application, … Continue reading
How to calculate a Medicaid ineligibility period
You may have heard that a Medicaid applicant becomes ineligible for benefits as a result of giving away assets. But what are the details? First let me give you the rule, then we’ll examine the parts. Rule: A Medicaid applicant … Continue reading
What is the Medicaid look-back period?
An applicant for Medicaid must report transfers of assets made in the five years (60 months) prior to applying. This period of time is called the “look-back” period. Here are the basics of how it works in Pennsylvania. When is … Continue reading
Medicaid benefits increase January 1
A number of important Medicaid figures will increase as of January 1, 2012. Most of the changes are figures that are typically adjusted every January. (Others change July 1, October 1, or at a lesser interval.) Many reflect a 3.6% … Continue reading
Are kids liable for Mom & Dad’s nursing home bill?
You may be surprised to learn that Pennsylvania law provides that the spouse, parent, or child of an indigent person has “the responsibility to care for and maintain or financially assist” that person, and that this responsibility applies “regardless of … Continue reading
“Assisted living” in Pennsylvania: terminology confusion ahead
What does “assisted living” mean in Pennsylvania now? It’s getting harder for consumers to know. When I have visited assisted living facilities in the past year, I have been struck by the wide variation in the services offered. One place … Continue reading
What is a “self-proved” or “self-proving” will in Pennsylvania?
If you’re the executor of an estate, you want to be able to walk into the register of wills office, present the original will (along with other required materials), get sworn in, obtain the documents you need, and walk out … Continue reading
Doctors: Can you tell the family when a patient needs a guardian?
Let’s suppose you are a doctor, or other similar health care provider. Every time you see your patient Joe his memory has worsened. Joe struggles to recall whether he took his medications this morning, and if so, what they were. … Continue reading
A pet trust for Fluffy
You don’t have to be Leona Helmsley to set up a trust for a beloved pet. After the billionaire Helmsley’s death, her white Maltese lived in the lap of luxury on its multi-million dollar trust fund. But Pennsylvania law allows … Continue reading
What is a “third party” special needs trust?
When someone uses his or her own money to set up a special needs trust (SNT for short) for another person, that’s called a “third party” SNT. It’s the best kind of SNT for two reasons. First, unlike a “first … Continue reading
Recent Posts
- When NOT to file a Medicaid application
- How to calculate a Medicaid ineligibility period
- What is the Medicaid look-back period?
- Medicaid benefits increase January 1
- Are kids liable for Mom & Dad’s nursing home bill?
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