Get Help With Medicaid Planning

Last updated on March 26, 2025

Medicaid is a lifeline for many seniors who need quality medical care, especially long-term care. However, qualifying for Medicaid can be challenging due to the program’s income and asset limits.

At Jen Haskins Law, LLC, I can help you navigate the many intricacies of Medicaid planning. I’m an elder law attorney with more than a decade of experience guiding clients through the process. I work with seniors and their adult children across the state of Georgia.

Can Medicaid Help Pay For Nursing Home Care?

Generally, yes. Nursing home care is the most common reason why people pursue Medicaid. Without the program, they couldn’t afford the care they need.

Navigating Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Medicaid as a senior in Georgia, you must be at least 65 years old. You must demonstrate that your income and assets are below the threshold.

The income and asset limit for Medicaid in Georgia changes every year. I can advise you of the current limits and the spend-down amount that might apply to your situation.

There are other ways to qualify for long-term care through Medicaid even if you aren’t 65 or older – for example, if you’re disabled or in need of nursing home care.

Medicaid vs. Medicare

Both Medicaid and Medicare can help with health care costs, but they work differently. Medicaid provides health coverage to those with limited assets or low income through state or federal programs. Medicare is a federal health insurance program for individuals over 65 years old, with some exceptions for those under 65 who have specific health conditions.

In other words, the main qualifier for Medicare is age, while the main qualifier for Medicaid is income level. Some individuals may qualify for both, such as someone who is over 65 and has a limited income.

It is typically Medicaid, not Medicare, that covers the long-term costs associated with a stay in a nursing home. It is important to know how these programs work and how you – or a loved one – can benefit from them.

Medicaid Planning Myths

One common misconception is that you have to be living in poverty to qualify for Medicaid, but this is not the case. For example, in 2023, the maximum yearly income for a family of four was over $63,000. The total changes depending on how many people are in the family and therefore need support from that income.

Likewise, the government will not seize your assets if you apply for Medicaid. Some people fear losing their homes, but this is not how the process works. You simply have to pass the means test. The government isn’t going to come and take your home, or other assets just because you applied.

If you have concerns about passing the test, planning in advance is key. Medicaid planning is a legal and ethical way to protect your assets for your family.

Married Couples And Medicaid

One important detail for married couples is the spousal impoverishment protections. If one spouse applies for Medicaid, these protections allow the other spouse to retain some assets so they do not have to spend them down to qualify.

There is a maximum dollar amount allowed under federal law, which was $148,620 as recently as 2023, though this amount may change. An experienced attorney can help you determine what the guideline is in your situation.

Planning ahead is crucial. Couples going through this process need to understand both state and federal laws to protect their assets while still qualifying for the benefits they need.

Medicaid Planning Strategies

The most effective way to plan for Medicaid is to establish an asset protection plan at least five years before you need to qualify. This will avoid the five-year “lookback period” – which is the 60-month period immediately preceding your application. If you gifted or transferred assets during that period, it may impact your eligibility. However, there are many misconceptions about the lookback period, and you shouldn’t let it discourage you. Tools such as Miller Trusts can preserve your eligibility for Medicaid without requiring a massive spend-down.

I’m very familiar with the many aspects of planning for nursing home care. I can advise you of your options and help you put the right plan into place for your situation.

Start Planning For Medicaid Today

Take control of your future by putting a Medicaid plan into place. I’d be happy to help. I can also help you if you’re already in need of Medicaid and don’t have a plan in place.

Please contact my Macon office online or by phone at 478-200-2232 to get started.