Helping You Secure the Benefits You Need
In the event that you or your spouse must be admitted to a nursing for long-term care, you may want to apply for Medicaid benefits. The application process is complex and often requires a sophisticated asset protection plan. If you are considering applying for Medicaid, you should seek the assistance of a skilled and knowledgeable attorney, one who you can trust to help you prepare an accurate, thorough Medicaid application.
My name is Melanie B. Bradford, and as an experienced Scottsboro Medicaid application lawyer, I understand the process of applying for and receiving Medicaid benefits. I am dedicated to helping my clients get the assistance they need. I am deeply committed to helping elderly citizens throughout Alabama. I am the chairwoman of the Elder Law Section of the State Bar of Alabama and a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. Solving legal problems for our elderly and/or disabled neighbors is my passion, and I look forward to helping you.
To arrange a consultation, call my office at 256-293-4092, toll-free at 888-736-1592 or contact me online.
Medicaid Eligibility
Many people believe that they cannot get Medicaid benefits because their financial resources are greater than the program allows. In fact, people are often told to spend their money and sell property until they have only $2,000 in assets left, which is the resource limit to be eligible for benefits. "Spending down" your assets this way is simply not necessary.
I can help you put your assets into a trust, allowing your family to keep the assets and use them for your benefit, while at the same time making you eligible for Medicaid benefits. If you are planning ahead for a possible nursing home stay, I can help you with proper Medicaid planning that can protect your assets further.
Helping You With the Medicaid Application Process
If done incorrectly, the timing of certain property transfers, such as giving a gift or putting property in trust, can make you ineligible. It is important to work with a skilled lawyer when applying for benefits and conducting asset transfers.
I am ready to help you prepare your application, and I will represent you in any hearings that are necessary to determine your eligibility. With my help, your application can be approved quickly, getting you the benefits you need as soon as possible.
Medicaid vs. Medicare
There is a great deal of confusion about the difference between Medicare and Medicaid. Simply put, Medicare provides funding for skilled nursing care, rehabilitation and short stays at the hospital. Medicaid pays for long-term care in a nursing home. A nursing home stay can cost nearly $5,500 a month, so even those with significant assets should consider Medicaid if they are facing a lengthy nursing home stay.
Contact a Huntsville, Alabama, Medicaid and Estate Planning Lawyer
To set up a private consultation, call my office at 256-293-4092, toll-free at 888-736-1592 or contact my law firm online. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Friday, evening and weekend consultations are available upon request.
