Healthcare coverage isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some programs are designed for older adults, while others focus on those with limited income or specific medical needs. Medicare, Medicaid, and MassHealth each have different eligibility rules and benefits, which can make it difficult to determine where you fit in. For Massachusetts residents, MassHealth provides additional coverage...
Understanding Medicare and Medicaid: Key Differences for Seniors
Healthcare costs can be a significant concern as we age, especially when it comes to doctor visits, hospital stays, and long-term care. Many seniors rely on government programs to help cover these expenses, but not all programs work the same way. Understanding what’s available can make a big difference in planning for...
What Is the Medicaid Five-Year Look-Back Period?
Planning for long-term care often raises questions about how to qualify for Medicaid without jeopardizing your financial security. Many people worry about how their past financial decisions, such as gifts to family members or transfers of property, might affect their eligibility. These concerns are valid, but with the right approach, you can...
Gaining Benefits for In-Home Long-Term Care
Many people prefer to receive long-term care at home rather than move into a facility. Being surrounded by familiar faces and a comfortable environment can make a significant difference in maintaining independence and quality of life. In-home care provides the support you need while allowing you to stay connected to your community...
Understanding Medicaid Spend-Down Rules in Massachusetts
Medicaid eligibility often requires reducing your assets to a certain level, a process known as spending down. Understanding how to manage this process is essential for those planning to apply for Medicaid in Massachusetts. By strategically spending down assets, you can meet the requirements without jeopardizing your financial stability. Whether you're preparing...
Can Turning 65 Impact MassHealth Eligibility?
Determining whether you’re eligible for the significant benefits of MassHealth can be puzzling, especially as you approach age 65. In this blog, the experienced elder law attorneys at Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., will clarify how reaching retirement age can affect your eligibility for MassHealth benefits in Southeastern Massachusetts. We will take a careful look...
How Do I Apply for MassHealth Long-Term Care Services?
At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., our estate planning law practice has extensive experience assisting clients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts with their long-term care planning needs. We understand the complexities of applying for MassHealth (Medicaid) for long-term care services and are committed to guiding our clients through every step of this...
Does MassHealth Cover Nursing Homes in Massachusetts?
When it comes to planning for long-term care, understanding the differences between MassHealth (Medicaid) and Medicare, as well as knowing which services are covered by each program is essential. At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., a well-respected estate planning law practice serving clients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts, we are committed to providing you with...
Reasons Medicaid/MassHealth Applications get Denied
When you require the long-term care that Medicaid (known as MassHealth in Massachusetts) provides, it can literally be a lifesaver. Unfortunately, a significant percentage of claims for these services are denied which is especially disheartening when your health or the health of a loved one is on the line.
Exempt Assets and Countable Assets: What Can you Keep and What is at Risk?
To qualify for Medicaid, applicants must pass fairly strict tests on the amount of assets they can keep. To understand how Medicaid works, we first need to review what are known as exempt (non-countable) and non-exempt (countable) assets.
Exempt assets are those which Medicaid will not take into account...