The cost for a year of nursing care in the state of Maryland can easily exceed $100,000. Without proper planning, a lifetime of savings can quickly evaporate. The development of a well thought out strategy is crucial to successfully preserving assets, taking into consideration the various Federal and State laws, and county Medicaid practices and policies. We can help you and your family develop a strategy to navigate the complicated process of qualifying for Medicaid benefits, while still preserving your families assets and life savings.

     As with all types of planning, timing is critical. Implement too soon, and you may not have enough for your needs. Wait too long, and a "Look back period" can deny benefits. An unexpected long-term illness can completely use up an entire life savings, as individuals are expected to privately pay for nursing care and nursing home stays, before government benefits kick in.

     Without careful planning, Medicaid benefits can be denied and certain innocent transfers of assets you may have made to your children or other relatives could be reversed by the government. Mediciad benefits are basic-- even with benefits, the Medicaid reciepient may still have other financial needs. The hard-earned assets that might otherwise have been used for the care of a loved one or to pass on to your heirs, may not be used as planned.

     This puts a burden not only on the elderly, but on their families and friends as well. After all, who will care for Mom, or Dad?

     We assist families with their elder care planning-- so your loved ones are properly cared for and their assets preserved to the fullest extent allowed by law. We regularly review long-term care insurance plans, provide contract review for long-term facilities and advise caregivers, as appropriate.

     Our office employs a former hospital administrator, who holds a Masters in Public Health. We have thorough knowledge of Medicaid rules, tax, estate and probate laws. Our firm will be there when you need us most, working with you throughout the process.

Our Services Include:

Suggesting retitling strategies to protect assets
Reviewing long-term care insurance contracts

Guardianship issues
Reviewing estate planning documents
Identifying problem assets for Medicaid
Reviewing CCRC, nursing home and similar contracts

Preparing caregiver agreements, leases and promissory notes
Advice regarding Medicaid and Medicare rules
Developing strategies to protect the family's assets
Helping families apply for Medicaid
Appealing Medicaid denials
Avoiding probate
Assisting families who have adult disabled children

For a consultation to discuss your legal options or to find out more about our Elder Law services, call us at 301.913.2948 or contact us online.