Monterey, CA : Medi-Cal : Advice For Those Forced Into Applying

by Richard Kuehn on 04/17/12

Monterey, CA : Medi-Cal : Advice For Those Forced Into Applying :  View From A Non-Profit Serving Carmel, Carmel Valley, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Gonzalez, Greenfield, King City, Marina, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Pebble Beach, Salinas, Seaside And Soledad California

 

 

The Wall Street Journal had a great article recently which gave advice to those in the unfortunate position of having to go on Medi-Cal because they can no longer afford long-term care.  Medi-Cal is not as uncommon as you might think.  The Medicaid program (called Medi-Cal in California) currently carries the burden for a full 40% of the country's long-term-care spending, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation.  That number surprised me, but illustrates why California and so many other states are suffering such serious budget woes.  But one needs some careful planning before going on Medi-Cal.  Some try giving gifts to family members so they can qualify, but the government has what is called a look-back period where they can disqualify any gifts going back as far as five years by giving you a "penalty period" where you aren't on Medi-Cal.  In some cases, the states are actually suing the estates of people who have used Medicaid and had a positive net worth when they died.  That shows just how desperate the budget situation has become.  If contemplating going on Medi-Cal, you should consult a specialist in elder care law to find out just what the rules are as they do change and with California so short of cash, they will likely be scrutinizing applications closely.  There is the possibility that with careful planning, you could transfer the title of your home to a loved one, but again this needs to be planned carefully with an attorney who might be able to structure a trust appropriately.  If you can't afford an attorney, consider going to Legal Services For Seniors, a non-profit helping seniors in Monterey County at no charge.  And if you can afford an attorney, consider supporting this organization by going to their Cioppino feast this Saturday, tickets are $75.