Medicaid is a joint federal and state program created under Title XIX of the Social Security Act of 1965. It provides a source of funding for long-term care to those aged, blind and disabled individuals who qualify financially.  42 U.S.C. §1396 et seq.; N.J.A.C. 10:71-1 et seq. Eligibility for Medicaid is based upon financial need. For example, in 2017, an unmarried applicant’s countable resources cannot exceed $2,000.00, N.J.A.C. 10:71-4.4, and monthly income cannot exceed $2,205.00.

However, through the use of the long-term care trusts, individuals with excess income or resources can plan to become eligible for Medicaid coverage for their long-term care needs.

On July 10, 2017, I presented at the 2017 “Elder Law in a Day” seminar given by the New Jersey Institute for Continuing Legal Education at the New Jersey Law Center in New Brunswick, New Jersey. In my presentation, I provided an overview of the various trusts utilized in planning for long-term care while qualifying for Medicaid and other public benefits based upon financial need. (Note that my presentation does not address Special Needs Trusts, which were the subject of another presentation.) 

My powerpoint presentation on long-term care trusts follows:

Download (PPT, 429KB)

For additional information concerning Medicaid and public benefits planning, visit: https://vanarellilaw.com/medicaid-public-benefits-planning/