If you are looking to give away assets or money to your friends or family, you should be aware that those transfers can affect your Medicaid availability. Medicaid will look back five years to see what assets have been transferred to others. Depending on the amounts, this could lengthen the amount of time that you have to wait for Medicaid benefits to kick in.

There are some exceptions to this rule however. Here are some people you may transfer assets to that may not change your Medicaid qualification.

Spouses

Transfer of assets between spouses is not held against you for Medicaid. However, if you have not set up certain protections for you and your spouse, the total amount of all assets held by both of you may be considered. Consult Stano Law group’s team if you have questions about how to do this.

Disabled or Blind Children

If you are transferring assets to a child who is blind or disabled, this will not be held against your Medicaid limit. This must be your child or funds donated to a trust for the benefit of someone under aged 65 who is blind or has a disability.

Homes

In some states you may transfer your home to:

  • Children under the age of 21
  • Child who has lived with you for two years (or longer) prior to your application for Medicaid benefits
  • Siblings who have equity in the home and have lived with you for a year.

Remember, laws vary from state to state. Contact Stano Law group for help with your questions.