What Does An Elder Law Medicaid Attorney Do?

"What does an elder law Medicaid attorney do?" This is a question that we frequently hear, as many people simply don't know about the benefits of working with an elder law Medicaid attorney.

As we all get older and life progresses, we will run into so many situations where we must work with doctors, banks, and even attorneys. Someday, we might even need an elder law and/or Medicaid attorney.

Elder Law vs. Medicaid Attorneys?

We must first understand the difference between "elder law attorneys" and “Medicaid attorneys’.” These professionals are sometimes confused with one another, but there is indeed a difference; Although there is often overlap between these two jobs, elder law attorneys are not always trained in Medicaid law, and Medicaid lawyers are not always trained in elder law.

A Medicaid attorney is a type of lawyer who specializes in handling the legal and financial issues that arise when dealing with Medicaid.

What Do These Attorney's Do?

Medicaid planning attorney laws are complex and oftentimes require the expertise of an Elder Law attorney. There are many different situations that might require the assistance of a professional such as this, and all of them can be extremely overwhelming for the average person.

Let's take a look at the most common situations that an elder law attorney assists with.

Applying for Medicaid

When applying for Medicaid, the process can be extremely confusing and even demoralizing. If you have ever tried to wade through the stacks of paperwork, the endless waiting periods, and other roadblocks that are required by Medicaid to receive benefits, then you know what we mean.

Here is where a Medicaid attorney can help. These professionals understand the system; They will make sure your application processes quickly, and they'll even deal with any issues that arise during this process.

An elder law attorney can help ensure that your application is filed correctly and will provide you with the benefits of their expertise regarding any obstacles that might get in your way.

Help with Income and Asset Limits

Medicaid has strict guidelines when it comes to assets and income. The limits are ever-changing and are different in every state, so click here to check for yours.

If you are over this limitation, don't worry; A Medicaid lawyer can help you. These professionals will be able to provide you with strategies that will allow you to maintain your assets and still qualify for benefits.

You may simply need to implement techniques for lowering your countable income and assets, which will allow you to qualify for the assistance you need. This will become entirely possible with the guidance of a Medicaid attorney.

Provide Advance Planning

Something that many people don't know about is Medicaid's "lookback period," which is a 5 year period that Medicaid looks back at when deciding if you are eligible for benefits. This essentially means that you cannot simply give away your assets right before you apply and call it a day; you must plan in advance.

A Medicaid lawyer will be able to advise on the different strategies and options you have, which include creating a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT), using the Modern Half a Loaf strategy, or creating a Miller Trust.

Depending on your situation, an attorney will advise you on which options are best for you and will ensure that your wishes regarding your assets are carried out.

Why is it important to hire an Elder Law Attorney?

So, as you can see, there are a lot of benefits to be had with an Elder Law attorney. Even if you do not have one of the situations described above, it never hurts to have a professional by your side.

Having a dedicated elder law attorney means that you will be getting personalized services. You can have all of your questions answered, and they will guide you through the process every step of the way. Because they specialize in these types of cases, they know what works and what doesn't and will help ensure that you get the best possible outcome.

Why should I hire OC Estate & Elder Law?

OC Estate and Elder Law is the top Medicaid planning attorney in Hollywood, Florida, and surrounding areas. Our goal is to help you and your family get the benefits that you deserve. Most importantly, we will continue to be by your side as a trusted legal counsel throughout this entire process. Call us today at (954) 251-0332 for more information on how we can assist you!