When Do You Need An Elder Law Attorney?
Elder law is the practice of assisting aging clients and their families with finding estate planning and care solutions, all while protecting their assets. For many people, this means planning for a time when an elderly person can no longer care for or make decisions for themselves. Long-term care is expensive, and many people cannot afford it outright. They rely on aid through the federal Medicaid program.
The rules to qualify for Medicaid are complex and ever-changing. At Stillman & Associates, LLC, attorney Matthew Stillman can help you navigate the Medicaid maze and find the solution that works for you and your family. He is well-known throughout the area for his work in elder law and Medicaid planning. When other attorneys need help interpreting the law in this area, they turn to him. He represents clients in Connecticut from his Guilford office in their elder law concerns, as well as traditional estate planning.
When You Must Act Now
Unfortunately, health can decline rapidly and require a quick response. If you need to move a loved one to long-term care right now, attorney Stillman can help you review all your options, assist you with your Medicaid application process, and identify available facilities.
Many people do not realize that they may have multiple options available, especially in a time of crisis. If you do not have your important documents in place, such as an advance medical directive or a power of attorney, Mr. Stillman will help you take care of that.
When You Have Time To Plan
There are a variety of ways to protect your assets if you can plan far enough ahead for your long-term care. The Medicaid program has very strict asset limits for eligibility. If your current assets are over the limit, you may need to spend down some of your money to reach the eligibility threshold. Attorney Stillman will help you identify the best way to do that.
In addition, Connecticut’s Medicaid program has a five-year look-back period, meaning that you can only spend or transfer your money and other assets in a very specific way in the five years before you apply for Medicaid. If you do not follow the very strict guidelines, you may have to account for that money before you can be eligible.
Attorney Stillman can advise you regarding how other services and benefits coincide with Medicaid and long-term care. For example, if you are eligible for veterans’ benefits or have long-term care insurance, you may have different options available. He can also help you establish a conservatorship for a loved one.
Discuss Your Needs With Stillman & Associates, LLC
Attorney Stillman is here to help. The sooner you get started, the more options you will have available. To schedule an appointment, please call him at 860-764-2980 or send an online message.