Medicaid Long-Term Assistance Application Tips
by Margie Yohn | June 7, 2023
Medicaid is a state run assistance program for persons with low to no income. There is more to it then just filling out the medicaid application.
[Be Sure To Speak With An Expert Or Visit The State Website For The Most Recent Information.]
In some situations, such as when people reach a point in their finances where they have low to no income, it may be necessary to apply for Medicaid assistance in order to pay for their housing or care. Often this happens when all other forms of financing has been exhausted and/or a move to a nursing home facility is warranted.
In order to receive subsidy from the state of residence, an applicant must first prove they need the assistance because they have limited income and assets and need long-term care services. Each state has their own eligibility rules with income and asset limitations.
Some nursing homes have social workers or staff that can help with the Medicaid application process. Below is a list of items needed to go along with the Medicaid application. This list may not be everything Medicaid requires as rules often can change. Use this as a starting point and expect to be asked to supply additional information or explanations throughout the process. If married, information for both parties will be required.
- Photo ID
- Social Security Card
- Birth Certificate
- Death Certificate (if widowed)
- Divorce Decree (if divorced)
- Medicare Care (front & back)
- Any additional Medical Cards (front & back)
- Power of Attorneys (legal, medical, etc.)
- Guardian and/or Conservator
- ID of the person holding your Power of Attorneys/Guardian/Conservator
- Social Security Award Letter
- Pension Verification (gross, net & deductions)
- VA (Veteran's Administration) income letter (breakdown of pension and aid & attendance)
- Any Income being received (gross, net & deductions)
- Paystubs (current & 3 months prior)
- Health Insurance premium verifications
- Current statements of all bills
- Current tax notices on home/deed, mortgage statement, proof of homeowner's insurance, lease agreement
- Bank statements for all accounts/all pages - including any closed accounts - for current month and the previous 5 years
- Vehicle registrations, titles and proof vehicle insurance and premium
- Trust fund, stocks, bonds, IRA, CD statements for current month and last 5 years
- Current face value and cash value for all life insurance policies
- Proof of pre-paid burial including contract, Goods & Services sheet and irrevocable agreement
- Taxes filed in previous 5 years - if not filed, written statement stating the applicant did not file taxes for any of the last 5 years
Again, use this list as a starting point in gathering documents. Medicaid rules can change at any time and also be prepared to be asked for additional documentation or explanations about anything supplied. As stated, this is a government run program and can be a lengthy, and sometimes confusing, process. Be sure to be working with the most current Medicaid application and list of requirements - visit Medicaid.gov for information about this program.
You can count on Margie Yohn, Realtor® & Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, to guide you through seniors issues --either yours or on behalf of an elderly loved one -- with the goal to inform, educate and advocate for transitions that are less stressful and more successful. For Seniors On The Move!