Elder Law and Medicaid Planning

“Elder law” is an umbrella term for the various aspects of law that have an impact on the lives of older people. It can include estate planning, long-term care planning, and representation regarding government benefits and other financial matters. In short, elder law involves advocating for the needs of seniors and those who love and care for them.

At Schroeder, Blankemeyer and Clinton, LLC, we take pride in developing relationships with our clients that last for years, decades, and sometimes, for generations. We are present as our clients’ needs change, available to help with legal issues that arise as they age. Our attorneys can help you resolve urgent concerns as well as to plan for the future.

Ohio Elder Law Services

Elder law attorneys have a saying: “It’s never too late to plan, but it’s never too soon to plan, either.” Obviously, it is ideal to plan ahead for your needs or those of a loved one whenever possible. Sometimes, of course, emergencies happen. Even—or especially—then, the services of an experienced Ohio elder law attorney can make things easier, offering answers and clarity when decisions must be made quickly.

Our elder law services include:

• Estate planning
• Probate
• Guardianships
• Powers of attorney
• Advance medical directives
• Coordinating and financing long-term care
• Elder neglect and abuse review and guidance
• Financial abuse issues of seniors
• Medicaid planning and eligibility

Over a third of all Americans who reach age 65 will need care in a nursing home or long-term care facility in their lifetimes. Unfortunately, the cost of that care can reach $100,000 per year or more. Medicare and Medicaid are not “cure-alls” and few people can afford indefinitely to pay for their care.

Medicaid Planning for Ohio Nursing Home Care

Medicaid planning is a significant component of our elder law services. Although Medicaid does cover nursing home care, most residents have to “spend down” their own assets in order to qualify. Simply giving away assets to loved ones can create more problems than it may solve. Medicaid has a five-year “look back” period. If, during the five years before applying for Medicaid, you transfer assets for less than their fair market value, you may not qualify for Medicaid when you need it most.

Fortunately, there are legal ways to preserve your hard-earned assets for your loved ones while still qualifying for Medicaid assistance. Our experienced Ohio Medicaid planning attorneys can explain the law and how it applies to your unique situation, as well as exploring your options with you.

If, like many people, you or a loved one find yourself in a situation where care is needed immediately, you may not have the luxury of planning ahead. However, there may still be avenues for protecting some assets while qualifying for assistance.

The sooner you are able to qualify for Medicaid assistance, the greater the financial relief for your family. Every month you must pay out-of-pocket for care may represent lost asset preservation options. Let us offer you the guidance you need to navigate the Medicaid qualification process.

We invite you to explore our website, meet our attorneys, learn about our practice areas, and contact us to schedule a consultation. We look forward to working with you.

Helpful Links

Ohio Department of Medicaid

Ohio Medicaid Forms

Ohio Medicaid Rules

Ohio Medicaid Helpful Links