Legacy Care Law Firm

Did you know that there are more than 8 million Americans over the age of 65 who are disabled and rely on Social Security for survival? It’s true. Many may recall President Nixon signing into law the Supplemental Security law in 1972. A lot has changed since then. The program is now 43 years old and some say it’s long overdue for an overhaul.It’s alarming to realize how many of those who receive these benefits but who are also living in deep poverty. There are more than 50 national organizations … [Read more...] about Supplemental Security Income

The Medicaid qualification process often gets a bad rap. It’s true that there’s a certain amount of tedious detail work that goes into qualifying, but understanding Medicaid guidelines before you begin that journey can ensure it’s a smoother process and with the help of your elder law attorney, you’re less likely to face the appeals process. This week, we explore a few of those misconceptions. Going Broke for Medicaid This is often the most misunderstood aspect for seniors wishing to apply … [Read more...] about Fact or Fiction: Understanding Medicaid Guidelines

Medicaid estate recovery is front and center these days. The reasons why are just as important as the rule itself. What does it mean for Medicaid recipients and what can they do to protect themselves are the questions everyone is asking. This week, we explore what this clause in Medicaid agreements really means. This particular Medicaid element is back in the news for the same reasons anything else associated with the American healthcare sector hits the evening news: politics.  There … [Read more...] about What is Medicaid Estate Recovery?

When it comes to Medicaid, those who take action sooner rather than later are most often the ones who transition into the program seamlessly and with much less stress. Medicaid planning was important before the new rule changes; today, though, it’s far more challenging for those who put off planning or who hadn’t anticipated needing the program. For years, we’ve heard about the five year look back period and the spend down rule. Here are four more reasons why you should plan for Medicaid. It all … [Read more...] about 4 Reasons to Plan for Medicaid Now

Many of our clients, unfortunately, are living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. No one wants to face the traumatic reality of these diagnoses, but far too often, estate planning includes that reality. There are a host of resources available for families in New Hampshire and Massachusetts; but there’s also much to look forward to in the research aspects of finally finding a cure for these brutal diseases. New Studies in Alzheimer's Disease New studies show that there exists a … [Read more...] about A Cure for Alzheimer’s?

As most of us gear up to ring out 2014 and welcome 2015, there’s a silent near-crisis that’s threatening the Medicaid program. In just days, there are deep cuts slated in the form of payments to physicians. Not surprisingly, concerns are that even more doctors will opt out of providing care for Medicaid recipients. This means, of course, it will become difficult for those with Medicaid to find the medical care they need. The Obamacare Influence When the Obama Administration was doing its … [Read more...] about Medicaid Payments in Jeopardy?

Did you know that there are 42 million people enrolled in Medicare? Medicaid enrollment numbers are even higher, partly because this program covers more than senior citizens and partly because of the new healthcare laws. As of April 2014, there were more than 61 million enrollees – and counting. By the Numbers: Medicaid and Medicare Between June 2011 and June 2012, more than 1.3 million people enrolled in Medicaid for the first time. In April 2014 alone – just that one month - there were … [Read more...] about Medicaid and Medicare Differences