Long-term medical care can be costly, making it a challenge for families to access the support and services needed when a loved one is injured or falls ill. Since the burden of medical services can be financially devastating for many people, the federal government offers support in the form of Medicaid benefits.
Eligibility Requirements for Medicaid Benefits
This program is designed to offer support for people who might not otherwise have access to insurance, but certain eligibility requirements need to be met. These fundamental requirements limit services to certain groups of people, which means that an error on the application could result in the denial of services.
Here is an overview of requirements that are considered for Medicaid eligibility:
- Medical Necessity: A doctor or other healthcare professional needs to verify that the patient requires long-term medical support, such as 24-hour care in a nursing facility.
- Minimal Assets: The person’s assets must be valued at less than $2,000, with a few exceptions such as a home, one car, life insurance policies, and a prepaid burial policy.
- Income Cap: To qualify for Medicaid benefits, the patient must have a monthly gross income that is below the poverty level. The specific amount varies depending on the state where the person is living and the number of people in the household.
Do I Qualify for Medicaid?
If you think that you might qualify for Medicaid benefits, then it’s time to talk to a legal professional for advice. The application process requires a careful strategy to increase the likelihood you will be able to access available financial support. Additionally, it can be helpful to have ongoing legal support as you are navigating coverage in the future.
For more information about Medicaid services and benefits, you are welcome to talk to us at Mortellaro Law. We offer a free consultation for every client. Call us at 813-367-1500 or book an appointment using our online form.