As we age, the possibility of requiring long-term care, such as a nursing home, becomes more likely. With the high costs associated with these services, planning ahead to protect your assets is essential. This article offers some strategies for Missouri residents to consider.

1. Understanding the Cost of Nursing Home Care

Nursing home care costs can be exorbitant. According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2020, the national median cost for a semi-private room in a nursing home was over $90,000 per year. Given these figures, it's understandable that many families are concerned about preserving their assets.

2. Medicaid and Nursing Home Costs

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that can cover the costs of nursing home care for eligible individuals. However, Medicaid has strict income and asset limits. In Missouri, as of 2021, the asset limit is $999.99 for a single person.

3. Asset Protection Strategies

The following strategies can help you qualify for Medicaid without depleting your assets. However, these methods must be implemented carefully, as they can have significant legal and financial consequences.

A. Irrevocable Trusts: Placing your assets in an irrevocable trust can protect them from being considered for Medicaid eligibility. The assets in the trust no longer legally belong to you, and therefore are typically not counted as part of your estate.

B. Asset Transfers: Transferring assets to family members can reduce your estate size. However, Medicaid has a "look-back" period of five years, meaning asset transfers within five years of your Medicaid application could result in penalties.

C. Annuities: Certain types of annuities can convert countable assets into a stream of income, which can help meet Medicaid's eligibility requirements.

D. Long-Term Care Insurance: This insurance can cover a portion of nursing home costs, protecting your assets from being depleted.

E. Spousal Refusal: In some cases, the spouse of the nursing home resident can refuse to pay for the resident’s care. This can allow the resident to qualify for Medicaid while preserving the spouse's assets.

4. The Importance of Legal Guidance

Before implementing any of these strategies, it's crucial to consult with an experienced elder law attorney or an estate planning attorney who can guide you through the complexities of asset protection, Medicaid regulations, and the potential consequences of different strategies.

Conclusion

Planning ahead for the potential costs of nursing home care is a crucial part of effective estate planning. By understanding the legal and financial landscape, Missouri residents can take steps to protect their hard-earned assets for their families and future generations.