Medicare is often a confusing and exhausting system to navigate. Particularly if you are caring for aging parents or in-laws and do not always have the right forms or information. Here are some things you need to know about long term care entitlements and how to make sure you get your family the best possible care while spending the least amount possible.
Remember, older adults do not have to use all available resources, such as savings, before Medi-Cal might help pay for all or some of the costs of a nursing facility! And, anyone seeking long term care benefits under Medi-Cal is NOT required to use up their assets to the $2,000 level… they are required to have no more than $2,000 in Available Assets. Assets may be transferred or re-categorized at any time if the transfer falls within Federal and State rules. There is a 30 month “look back period,” during which an applicant may be denied eligibility because assets have been transferred in violation of Federal or State rules.
- Medi-Cal by law is required to provide every applicant for long term care benefits with a form called the DHS 7077.
- Medicare will pay 100% of care fees up to 20 days in a skilled during facility (rehab) and another 80 days with a deductible of $119 per day.
- At the end of 100 days in rehab or a sub-acute facility, or if re-classified as a ‘convalescent’ during the 100 days, Medicare will cease payment of benefits. However, Medi-Cal may pay for care.
- The program accommodates anyone that is indigent. But it also accommodates older middle-class Americans specifically the aged, blind and the disabled.
- Your basic choice to pay for care include:
- Private Pay (You write the checks every month yourself)
- Long Term Care Insurance Benefits (If you have any)
- Use your entitlement under the Medi-Cal Long Term Care program
Finding out what your benefits are and how to best apply for utilize them is critical. If you’re taking care of your parents or in-laws and need help don’t wait. Call 562-627-9600 for a free consultation with a licensed elder law attorney. It could make all the difference for you and your loved ones.
