Commonly Asked Medi-Cal Planning Questions

For anyone considering using Medi-Cal in Californi, to pay for the expenses associated with long-term care, there are several factors you need to consider. While an experienced and qualified elder law attorney can help you assess whether a Medi-Cal plan is right for your needs and guide you through the process of creating such a plan, here are some commonly asked questions about Medi-Cal planning.

Question 1. How do I qualify for Medi-Cal?

It can be very complicated, but it basically boils down to meeting the specific asset limits imposed under the program. In order to be accepted into Medi-Cal, you must have no more than a specific amount of assets. However, there are three categories of assets: exempt, nonexempt and unavailable property. Exempt property is not taken in the calculation when determining your eligibility criteria, while nonexempt property is. Unavailable property is nonexempt property that is not counted due to specified circumstances.

Question 2. What I exempt property?

There are several categories of exempt property under Medi-Cal. The primary exempt property is a personal residence, such as a home, mobile home, or even a boat you use as your primary living space. Other exempt property includes a single motor vehicle, clothing and recreational items, jewelry, as well as furnishings and appliances.

Question 3. If I’m already in a nursing home, can I still apply for Medi-Cal?

Absolutely. Even if you are currently using a private pay system, or have long-term care insurance, you can still apply for Medi-Cal. Also, if you already have a long-term care insurance policy and wish to plan for the possibility of needing Medi-Cal, you can create a plan that takes this in the consideration as well.

The best advice is to work with an experienced and qualified elder law attorney who regularly assists clients with qualifying for Medi-Cal and assisting with the application.  Our firm offers those services.

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Timothy P. Murphy

Timothy P. Murphy is an estate planning and elder law attorney whose practice emphasizes helping people to build, preserve and pass on their wealth. He works with his clients to accomplish their goals while avoiding unnecessary court proceedings and minimizing or eliminating exposure to death taxes.

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