Law Journal

When a loved one is facing the high costs of long-term care, families often ask: Is there any way to preserve part of our savings for the next generation? The answer—sometimes—is yes. One time-tested method that elder law attorneys use is called the Half-a-Loaf Strategy. Though the name might sound unusual, this approach combines two powerful tools—gifting and annuities—to help families shelter a portion of their assets while still qualifying for Medicaid. Let’s break it

When planning for long-term care, one of the biggest challenges families face is how to legally protect assets while still qualifying for Medicaid. One lesser-known but highly strategic tool is the use of annuities—a financial product that, when used properly, can convert countable resources into non-countable income.

When it comes to qualifying for Medicaid, many people are surprised to learn that your home—often your most valuable asset—can be protected.

When applying for Medicaid long-term care in Texas, income eligibility can become a roadblock for many families. Even if your assets are within the limits, having “too much income” can still disqualify you from receiving much-needed benefits.

When it comes to Medicaid planning, income limits can be one of the biggest hurdles to overcome—especially for married couples where one spouse is entering long-term care and the other remains at home. Fortunately, income shifting strategies exist to help protect a family’s financial stability while still qualifying for Medicaid benefits.

Navigating the Medicaid application process is no small feat. Between income limits, resource caps, and the maze of rules, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But once you’ve cleared the three major hurdles—medical necessity, income eligibility, and resource limits—the next step is figuring out how to legally and effectively qualify for benefits.

To qualify for Medicaid, applicants must meet specific resource limits. This is the third major requirement, following medical necessity and income limits. Many people worry about exceeding resource limits, but understanding countable vs. non-countable assets can help navigate Medicaid eligibility.

Applying for Medicaid in Texas requires careful planning and a clear understanding of eligibility requirements. The first and most crucial step is demonstrating medical necessity—you cannot simply decide to enter a nursing home and expect Medicaid to cover the costs. In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors that determine Medicaid eligibility for long-term care, explain Texas-specific regulations, and discuss alternative options for assisted living.

Many aging parents prefer to stay at home rather than move into a nursing home. Given the choice, most people would rather receive care in a familiar and comfortable environment. However, Medicaid does not typically cover long-term in-home care. Fortunately, there are alternative programs available that can help families access government assistance for in-home care.

The Medicaid Spousal Impoverishment Rule is a vital protection for married couples when one spouse requires long-term care. It ensures that the healthy spouse, also known as the “community spouse,” is not left destitute while the other spouse qualifies for Medicaid assistance. Here's what you need to know about this rule and how it works.

When applying for Medicaid , one of the most important factors  to consider is the income limit . In Texas, as well as in 12 other states...

For many, nursing homes are the final stage of long-term care. While they strive to provide quality care, resources often determine the..

Nursing homes are often a necessary part of life for elderly parents, but navigating the financial and legal aspects of their care can be...

Learn about the Three-Month Nursing Home Strategy, a valuable approach for families on Medicaid to secure a preferred nursing home before tr

The Medicaid spend-down strategy is a critical tool for those seeking to qualify for Medicaid while making the most of their resources.

When applying for Medicaid, meeting the resource requirement is one of the most critical and misunderstood aspects of the process.

When applying for Medicaid, understanding income limits is crucial, especially in states like Texas and 12 others with income-stated limits.

Medicaid long-term care can be a confusing topic, especially when it’s often mistaken for Medicare due to their similar names.

When planning for Medicaid, one strategy to preserve resources while meeting eligibility requirements is the self-settled trust.