Planning for Long-Term Care: Medicaid and Medi-Cal Eligibility

As people age, many face the prospect of needing long-term care. This type of care can be expensive, and it can quickly deplete your savings if you are not prepared. Medicaid and Medi-Cal are government programs that can help cover the costs of long-term care, but they have specific eligibility requirements. Here's what you need to know about planning for long-term care and eligibility for Medicaid and Medi-Cal:

Long-Term Care: Long-term care includes a range of services and support for people who need help with everyday activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. This care can be provided in a variety of settings, including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and in-home care.

Medicaid: Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides healthcare coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families. It can also cover the costs of long-term care, but eligibility requirements vary by state. In California, Medi-Cal is the state's version of Medicaid.

Medi-Cal: Medi-Cal provides healthcare coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families in California. It also covers the costs of long-term care, but eligibility requirements are complex and can be difficult to navigate. A trust may help you structure your assets in a way that preserves eligibility.

Planning for Long-Term Care: Planning for long-term care can help ensure that you are prepared for any future needs. One option is to purchase long-term care insurance, which can help cover the costs of long-term care. Another option is to work with an attorney to create an estate plan that includes provisions for long-term care.

At LS Carlson Law, we can help you understand the eligibility requirements for Medicaid and Medi-Cal long-term care benefits, as well as explore other options for planning for long-term care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you plan for your future needs.