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5 things you should know about Medicaid applications

On Behalf of | Feb 22, 2021 | Medicaid

Medicaid can be a very helpful program to cover the costs of emergency treatment and other necessary types of medical care. With the high expenses in the United  States, government programs allow seniors access to the healthcare they need — as long as they qualify.

So, the big hurdle for many people is applying to the program and getting the government to recognize that they do, in fact, qualify. 

Working through the Medicaid application process

If you’re considering Medicaid and wondering how to apply, here are five things you should know:

  1. Income and asset levels are crucially important. For instance, a single person who has (excluding necessary items like a home, a car, etc) more than $2,000 in assets generally won’t qualify.
  2. Though there are a few exceptions, proof of disability is usually needed in the form of medical records. Of all the paperwork you provide, those medical records are arguably the most important. (You will not need this if you are applying based on your age alone.)
  3. You can get denied based on simple paperwork errors, such as not filling out the right forms or failing to submit certain documents — such as your medical records. If you get denied, you may be able to fix the error and get approved.
  4. You will also need paperwork to prove various other aspects of the case. For example, a driver’s license can be used to prove your age, and you may need documents to prove your citizenship.
  5. You can reduce your estate value to qualify. Many people do this by giving gifts to their children, for instance, rather than holding those assets and leaving them in a will.

As helpful as Medicaid is, the application process can feel overwhelming. Make sure you understand what legal steps to take to ensure that you qualify. If you’re looking ahead to the future, Medicaid planning can be a useful process. An experienced advocate can guide you through the steps you need to take.

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