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.

Summer is a season for sunshine, adventure, and family—but it’s also a good time to pause and ask: Is your estate plan still working for you?

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.

As a lawyer, what I’m about to say might seem counterintuitive—but it’s a perspective that I’ve seen change lives: Sometimes, the best legal advice is not to sue.

According to the AARP, only 4 in 10 American adults have completed end-of-life planning. That means the majority of people are leaving their families unprepared for one of life’s most important transitions.

If you’re dealing with property damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, knowing how to approach repairs and navigate insurance claims can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and get the help you need.

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.