Important Steps to Complete a Medicaid Application

For years, Medicaid has been helping countless people get the care that they deserve. This state-administered program was designed specifically for disabled and low-income U.S. citizens as well as legal aliens to help get the hospital care and doctor services that they need. One of the main ways that Medicaid helps today’s in-need seniors is by helping them with the costs of nursing home care. Long-term care for the elderly and disabled can be extremely expensive, and most people aren’t sure of how to complete the Medicaid application to see if they qualify for this type of financial aid.

However, the process can be more complicated than just merely qualifying or not. This is where the professionals at Your Legacy Legal Care Firm come in. We can walk you through every step of the process and represent you and your interests so that you can make the right decision for your situation.

Step 1: Determine if Medicaid is Right For You

Many seniors consider Medicaid when they discover they are unable to cover nursing home care on their own. Before you move forward with your Medicaid application, it is essential to determine if this is the right decision for you and your unique situation.

First, we will walk you through what Medicaid does to assist eligible individuals. We must also address specific asset preservation requirements. Depending on your unique financial situation, your home or other assets may be at risk if you enroll in the Medicaid program. We are here to help you understand how the process works and to help you protect your property during this process.

Step 2: Gather Your Supporting Documents

In addition to filling out an application, you also need to provide a few different supporting documents.

1. Proof of age (birth certificate or driver’s license).

2. Proof of citizenship or resident alien status(limited benefits only).

3. Proof of income (pension award letters, pay stubs, Social Security, etc.).

4. Proof of assets (including most recent statements).

5. Proof of disability, if applicable.

One of the main reasons that Medicaid applications get denied is because applicants do not provide enough supporting documents or the right supporting documents. The actual application is particular about what documents are required, making it easy to determine what will work and what will not. We can help make sure that you have everything in order for your application.

Step 3: Submit Your Application.

You can submit your application via fax, on paper, online or in-person at your state’s Medicaid office. When your application is complete, a caseworker will review your application and determine if you qualify for Medicaid benefits to cover your nursing home care.

With Medicaid coverage, you must go to a long-term nursing home care facility that is Medicaid certified. If you are looking at assisted living communities, Medicaid will not pay for room and board or rent in these communities. However, there are still other programs available that are open to Medicaid beneficiaries which can help with the costs.

Typically, Medicaid applications are responded to within 45 days. If your application is denied, you can appeal. The Medicaid office outlines how to start the appeal process in your denial letter. If the denial was due to a lack of supporting information, they will likely outline what documents you need to re-open your Medicaid application.

If you have any questions regarding the Medicaid application process, visit the professionals at Your Legacy Legal Care Firm. We can help answer any of your questions about Medicaid and. Call us today at (281) 885-8826 for more information.