More than ten percent of Racine's population is over the age of 65. Many of these residents will have a longer life expectancy than previous generations and will need long-term medical care in their later years. A common concern among senior citizens in Wisconsin is protecting their assets from the steep costs of healthcare as they enter their golden years.
Senior citizens and their families often worry about receiving quality care. A person who requires long-term care may end up paying tens of thousands of dollars a year for the opportunity to reside in a nursing home. A nursing home is often the largest expense seniors and their family members face. In some cases, it may be possible to apply for Medicaid benefits to offset some of these costs.
If you've never applied for Medicaid before, the process can be confusing and difficult; however, it is a process that should be carefully completed for the best chance of receiving much-needed benefits. Often, it is advisable to work with a Racine Medicaid attorney before applying for Medicaid to ensure eligibility.
At Heritage Law Office, attorney Brad Sarkauskas diligently assists clients in navigating Medicaid while helping them protect their assets. We aspire to provide peace of mind to families by assisting them with elder and disability law, Medicaid planning, long-term care planning, and estate planning. Contact us either online or at 414-253-8500 to schedule a free consultation today.
What Is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a federal program designed for people who cannot afford healthcare on their own. Because of fraudulent claims and other issues, the Medicaid application process is now much more complicated than before.
Medicaid provides healthcare to individuals who:
- Are age 65 or older, blind, or disabled
- Have a household or family income at or below the monthly program limit
- Are U.S. citizens or legal immigrants
Residents of Wisconsin must apply to receive Medicaid benefits, which differs from Medicare. Individuals can check their eligibility for Medicaid with Social Security's BEST (Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool). They may also apply for Wisconsin Medicaid online or work with a Medicaid attorney in Racine to boost their chances of receiving the funds they need.
Was your Wisconsin Medicaid Application Rejected?
If you have applied for Medicaid in Wisconsin and your application was rejected, you might not know what to do next. It might seem that there are no other options for receiving the funds you need to receive quality care. Fear not. This is the perfect time to contact a Racine Medicaid attorney and discuss your situation. An attorney who helps clients qualify for Medicaid will be able to evaluate your application and provide you with the information necessary to qualify on a second try.
There are dozens of rules and eligibility requirements that must be met before receiving Medicaid benefits in Wisconsin, which is why an attorney can be a valuable asset to completing the process smoothly.
Planning for a Bright Future with Racine Medicaid Lawyers
It's never too soon to speak with a qualified Medicaid lawyer in Racine about your financial plans. Our staff holds over 20 years of extensive experience in complete financial planning, including:
- Nursing home planning
- Special needs trusts
- Estate planning
- Annuities to provide monthly income to your spouse
Trust attorney Brad Sarkauskas is able to walk you through Medicaid benefits in Wisconsin. He can help you not only apply for Medicaid but also position your assets before you apply to help ensure your greatest chance of approval. If you or someone you love is considering applying, but aren't sure what to do, contact Mr. Sarkauskas of Heritage Law Office by calling 414-253-8500 for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Medicaid and who qualifies for it?
Medicaid is a federal and state program designed to provide health coverage to people with limited income, including some low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. The guidelines for eligibility differ from state to state, but they all follow the same basic structure set out by federal law. Generally, Medicaid applicants must meet financial and non-financial criteria. In Wisconsin, you can check your eligibility for Medicaid with Social Security's BEST (Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool).
2. How can a Racine Medicaid attorney assist me in the application process?
A Racine Medicaid attorney can provide valuable assistance in the Medicaid application process by helping you understand the complex eligibility rules and requirements, advising you on the best way to position your assets, and ensuring your application is correctly filled out to increase your chances of approval. They can also guide you through the appeal process if your application has been denied.
3. What should I do if my Medicaid application has been denied?
If your Medicaid application has been denied, don't despair. This is a good time to seek the help of a Racine Medicaid attorney. An attorney can evaluate your application, identify potential issues, and provide you with the necessary information to qualify on a second attempt.
4. How can I protect my assets while applying for Medicaid?
The rules surrounding asset protection and Medicaid eligibility are complex and vary from state to state. In general, some assets, such as your primary residence, may be exempt. However, others may be counted towards your eligibility. An experienced Racine Medicaid attorney can help guide you through these rules and devise a strategy that protects your assets while maintaining your eligibility for Medicaid.
5. How can Medicaid help with long-term care costs?
Medicaid can provide significant help with long-term care costs, which can include nursing home care, home health care, and other related medical expenses. However, the rules surrounding Medicaid and long-term care can be complex, and there are specific eligibility requirements to meet. An experienced Medicaid attorney can help you navigate these rules and maximize your benefits.
