Sarasota Medicaid Planning Lawyers

Secure Your Future with the Leading Elder Law Firm—Serving Throughout Southwest Florida

Among the most devastating news a family can receive comes in the form of a diagnosis of dementia or physical decline of a loved one. The personal issues are profound; the financial considerations can be overwhelming. The costs of long-term care, whether at home or in a facility, can devastate a modest retirement savings. It puts in jeopardy not only the one who needs care, but those dependent on them for support. At these times, it becomes essential to understand what benefit programs can help and which don’t. For some, VA benefits provide relief; for many others, the only available option is Medicaid.

What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a program which is run jointly by both the federal government and the state government that can assist in paying for long-term care. Benefits might be available for assisted living, but obtaining them is quite difficult. For nursing home care, availability is far greater but the government imposes a number of factors for determining eligibility that may require skilled planning to work within. Limitations on levels of income and assets, protection for spouses at home and disabled children often need to be finessed for optimum results.

What is the Difference Between Medicare and Medicaid?

The government runs both Medicare and Medicaid separately. Because they are run separately, you can be dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Government agencies operate and fund these centers, which primarily serve different groups. Although people often get confused over which is which, there are some differences in cost-sharing and services.

• Medicare, unlike Medicaid, is paid for with contributions from Social Security taxes (FICA). Medicare also provides health insurance for people 65 and older or under 65 with disabilities, regardless of their income. Because it is federally funded, the program is the same across the U.S.
• Medicaid is a federal and state needs-based program that offers health coverage based on a person's income and medical history. Unlike Medicare, Medicaid pays for long-term care and varies from state to state.

Florida Medicaid Eligibility Standards: July 2021 Update

While Medicaid seems like a straightforward program, determining your eligibility can be complicated. Working with an experienced Medicaid attorney, like ours at Advocates in Aging, can help you understand the rules and regulations, and can help you plan for the future. Our elder law attorneys are well-versed in all aspects of Medicaid, have been successfully guiding clients for decades and can help you today.

Questions About Medicaid? Contact Our Sarasota Lawyers for Guidance at (941) 242-7270.

Why Partner with a Sarasota Medicaid Attorney for Your Application

The Medicaid application process may seem grueling. If you are an applicant aged 65 or above and in need of a nursing home or other long-term care, seeking the services of an elder law attorney is crucial.

Professional advice is highly recommended because Medicaid can be complicated due to its many rules and regulations. We also understand that the application can be confusing and frustrating. Our team at Advocates in Aging are here to help you throughout the entire process and make sure you understand your options and benefits. Give us a call today for a case review and to schedule a consultation with a Medicaid lawyer!