Planning for a loved one with dementia or disability is not just getting them to sign the correct legal documents.
Planning for them requires making sure that they can access the public benefits that might be available to them and making sure that, if they are receiving Medi-Cal and/or SSI, that they don’t lose their benefits if they inherit money.
There are many myths about public benefits; believing these myths often cost those living with dementia and disabilities hundreds of thousands of dollars.
For those needing Skilled Care in a Nursing Home, or just Medi-Cal, the law in California is very liberal.
In 2023, a single person can have $130,000.00 (and their spouse is allowed $137,400) and it is expected that in 2024 assets will not be considered at all.
The income rules for Medi-Cal will still apply, and if you make too much money, the Share of Cost associated with Medi-Cal can be very high.
Consulting a Certified Elder Law Attorney like Martha Patterson who is an expert in these benefits will ensure that your loved one gets the benefits they need and that their share of cost is reduced or eliminated.
