Ralph Robbins
Certified Financial Planner
Ralph S. Robbins, CFP©, is a licensed Certified Financial Planning Practitioner and an Accredited VA Claims Agent specializing in Eldercare Financial Planning. He works everyday helping families in crisis find creative ways to fund long-term care expenses and deal with family financial issues.
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Question
My mother is selling her home and will recieve approximately $40,000. She is 70-years-old. Can she protect thi...
There should be no tax consequence to the sale of the home which means that all of the money can be put to work. Assuming she is not... There should be no tax consequence to the sale of the home which means that all of the money can be put to work. Assuming she is not currently receiving Medicaid benefits she can do with the funds as she pleases.
If the goal is "retirement" please be aware that there are thousands of "investment professionals" that would love to get a hold of her money.
These days, the "investment du jour", in other words the "investment" that pays the highest commission and therefore is being agressively sold to seniors is the "Equity-Indexed Annuity".
Whatever you do DO NOT LET HER PURCHASE ONE OF THESE ANNUITIES! I do not have the time to go into details here but suffice to say state after state has received thousands of complaints from consumers about these product.
My suggestion is that you "ladder" CD's at the bank. The concept is this: Take the $40k and divide it into 5, $8k pieces. Take $8k and buy a 1 yr or 2 yr CD. Take the next $8k and purchase a 2 yr or 3 yr CD. Take the next $8k and purchase a 3 or 4 yr CD, etc.
This will...
1. Keep mom's money as safe as possible.
2. Provide a higher yield than just purchasing a short term CD with all of the funds
3. Provide "fresh" money each year from an expiring CD to purchase a new CD at the then current rate. (Rates will most likely be going higher over the next few years, we can't stay at zero forever, can we?).
4. Provide liquidity in the event she needs money some will always be available with very little penalty.
DO NOT buy stocks for obvious reasons.
DO NOT buy bond mutual funds. When interest rates go up the value of the funds will be CRUSHED. see more
If the goal is "retirement" please be aware that there are thousands of "investment professionals" that would love to get a hold of her money.
These days, the "investment du jour", in other words the "investment" that pays the highest commission and therefore is being agressively sold to seniors is the "Equity-Indexed Annuity".
Whatever you do DO NOT LET HER PURCHASE ONE OF THESE ANNUITIES! I do not have the time to go into details here but suffice to say state after state has received thousands of complaints from consumers about these product.
My suggestion is that you "ladder" CD's at the bank. The concept is this: Take the $40k and divide it into 5, $8k pieces. Take $8k and buy a 1 yr or 2 yr CD. Take the next $8k and purchase a 2 yr or 3 yr CD. Take the next $8k and purchase a 3 or 4 yr CD, etc.
This will...
1. Keep mom's money as safe as possible.
2. Provide a higher yield than just purchasing a short term CD with all of the funds
3. Provide "fresh" money each year from an expiring CD to purchase a new CD at the then current rate. (Rates will most likely be going higher over the next few years, we can't stay at zero forever, can we?).
4. Provide liquidity in the event she needs money some will always be available with very little penalty.
DO NOT buy stocks for obvious reasons.
DO NOT buy bond mutual funds. When interest rates go up the value of the funds will be CRUSHED. see more
Question
How can I get paid or get financial help to keep our home and keep caring for my dad?
Charles... Thanks for being so open about your circumstances... West Virgina has a Home and Community Based Waiver program. I'll bet... Charles...
Thanks for being so open about your circumstances...
West Virgina has a Home and Community Based Waiver program. I'll bet it may be underfunded and there is a waiting list but you should get on it. See the services available and requirements here:
http://www.wvseniorservices.gov/HelpatHome/MedicaidAgedandDisabledWaiver/tabid/77/Default.aspx
Here is the contact info for the Director of the Program for West Virginia. Why not start at the top...
Julie McClanahan, Director
Medicaid Aged & Disabled Waiver Program
West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services
1900 Kanawha Blvd., East
Charleston, WV 25305-0160
Call her and ask her about the income situation. Mention the Income Trust!
There is another program in WV called "Medicaid Personal Care" which does have a very low income threshold ($674 per month). It appears to be targeted to those under age 65. This is not the program you want...maybe this is where the confusion lies with the person you spoke to.
There are actually several Medicaid programs targeted to the elderly in WV including a "Cash and Counseling" option called "Personal Options". Here's the link: http://www.wvseniorservices.gov/Portals/0/pdf/brochure-PersonalOptions.pdf
Call the agency below about this and other services such as help with your home. This is the WV Aging and Disabilit Resource Center website. Pick your county.
http://www.wvseniorservices.gov/GettingAnswers/InteractiveMap/tabid/61/Default.aspx
I'll be curious to learn what you discover... see more
Thanks for being so open about your circumstances...
West Virgina has a Home and Community Based Waiver program. I'll bet it may be underfunded and there is a waiting list but you should get on it. See the services available and requirements here:
http://www.wvseniorservices.gov/HelpatHome/MedicaidAgedandDisabledWaiver/tabid/77/Default.aspx
Here is the contact info for the Director of the Program for West Virginia. Why not start at the top...
Julie McClanahan, Director
Medicaid Aged & Disabled Waiver Program
West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services
1900 Kanawha Blvd., East
Charleston, WV 25305-0160
Call her and ask her about the income situation. Mention the Income Trust!
There is another program in WV called "Medicaid Personal Care" which does have a very low income threshold ($674 per month). It appears to be targeted to those under age 65. This is not the program you want...maybe this is where the confusion lies with the person you spoke to.
There are actually several Medicaid programs targeted to the elderly in WV including a "Cash and Counseling" option called "Personal Options". Here's the link: http://www.wvseniorservices.gov/Portals/0/pdf/brochure-PersonalOptions.pdf
Call the agency below about this and other services such as help with your home. This is the WV Aging and Disabilit Resource Center website. Pick your county.
http://www.wvseniorservices.gov/GettingAnswers/InteractiveMap/tabid/61/Default.aspx
I'll be curious to learn what you discover... see more
Question
How can I get paid or get financial help to keep our home and keep caring for my dad?
Do you mind sharing what his income is? Did you ask them about the Irrevocable Qualified Income Trust I mentioned to divert the income so... Do you mind sharing what his income is? Did you ask them about the Irrevocable Qualified Income Trust I mentioned to divert the income so he can qualify? There is no reason why this should not work (unless there is something going on that I am not aware of but I can't imagine what that might be). It is Federal Law.
With respect to the home, is it titled in your name or your parent's? I'm assuming the financial issue with the house is the mortgage payment? If there is equity there it may be possible to transfer the property to your father and have him execute a reverse mortgage. This would not only eliminate the mortgage payment but would also provide access to the remaining equity. The downside is that if the residence is no longer occupied by dad for more than 12 months or if he passes away the house will have to be sold or refinanced. This means you will have to either move or be able to qualify for a mortgage at that time.
I of course have no idea how far behind you might be on the mortgage or where in the process of foreclosure you might be but again, I would encourage you to fight. Your county housing authority might be a good place to start for a referral to a non-profit organization that will help you buy time and hopefully rework your loan. No bank is going to want to evict an elderly gentlemen. see more
With respect to the home, is it titled in your name or your parent's? I'm assuming the financial issue with the house is the mortgage payment? If there is equity there it may be possible to transfer the property to your father and have him execute a reverse mortgage. This would not only eliminate the mortgage payment but would also provide access to the remaining equity. The downside is that if the residence is no longer occupied by dad for more than 12 months or if he passes away the house will have to be sold or refinanced. This means you will have to either move or be able to qualify for a mortgage at that time.
I of course have no idea how far behind you might be on the mortgage or where in the process of foreclosure you might be but again, I would encourage you to fight. Your county housing authority might be a good place to start for a referral to a non-profit organization that will help you buy time and hopefully rework your loan. No bank is going to want to evict an elderly gentlemen. see more
Question
Mom owns manufactured home and pays rent on the property that includes taxes, garbage and cable. Will Medicaid...
If it is her primary residence the property will be considered exempt as a countable resource for Medicaid in Florida. Does the property... If it is her primary residence the property will be considered exempt as a countable resource for Medicaid in Florida. Does the property have a deed or a title? If, by some chance the notion is challenged, and it may be depending on the Medicaid program you are applying for (ICP vs. Long-Term Diversion Waiver), you can always list the property for sale (even if the intent is not to sell it). This will make the property "unavailable" and therefore also exempt as a countable resource.
Parenthetically, if the property has a deed, you should remove your name from it. This is best done via a quick claim deed. The new deed should be established as and "enhanced life estate deed" aka "lady bird deed". Do a search why this is important. Bottom line: It will avoid the property going through probate. see more
Parenthetically, if the property has a deed, you should remove your name from it. This is best done via a quick claim deed. The new deed should be established as and "enhanced life estate deed" aka "lady bird deed". Do a search why this is important. Bottom line: It will avoid the property going through probate. see more
Question
How can I get paid or get financial help to keep our home and keep caring for my dad?
Charles... I want to take a moment to apologize to you in the event that, as Pirate Gal pointed out above, I may have offended you and your... Charles...
I want to take a moment to apologize to you in the event that, as Pirate Gal pointed out above, I may have offended you and your family.
My intent was actually to offer you some "inspiration" and some hope that you can get throught this mess.
Therefore, I hope you will accept my heartfelt apology. As a caregiver myself, as well as one who works with caregivers everyday, the very LAST thing I wanted to do is be insensitive to another's plights.
I am particularly apologetic for I just noticed you stated that you recently lost your mom. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
One last item occured to me with respect to your situation. Was your father a veteran who served during wartime? There is a VA pension benefit he may be eligible for. Let me know. see more
I want to take a moment to apologize to you in the event that, as Pirate Gal pointed out above, I may have offended you and your family.
My intent was actually to offer you some "inspiration" and some hope that you can get throught this mess.
Therefore, I hope you will accept my heartfelt apology. As a caregiver myself, as well as one who works with caregivers everyday, the very LAST thing I wanted to do is be insensitive to another's plights.
I am particularly apologetic for I just noticed you stated that you recently lost your mom. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
One last item occured to me with respect to your situation. Was your father a veteran who served during wartime? There is a VA pension benefit he may be eligible for. Let me know. see more
Question
How can I get paid or get financial help to keep our home and keep caring for my dad?
Aaaargghh! Pirate Gal how are ya? I re-read my posts and I apologize if I came off a bit strong. These are very tough times for many of... Aaaargghh! Pirate Gal how are ya?
I re-read my posts and I apologize if I came off a bit strong. These are very tough times for many of us regardless as to whether we are taking care of elders or not. Guess I was just a little sensitive to this matter for I have recently run across a string of families in my practice who are singing the same tune but are really taking no action to help themselves.
Perhaps I am unusual in that I am an absolute pit bull when it comes to advocacy and taking responsibility. I often work 12 hour days to help families...lots of that time pro bono...and its striking to me how families will not stand for themselves as fiercely as I will stand for them!
Having to make money drives some people crazy because they are married to the notion that they must have an employer. I was simply trying to EMPHATICALLY make the point that there are always ways to make some extra scratch.
I appreciate, too, your comment about faith based organizations. I am neither and adovcate nor detractor of same but I do recognize the role they play in many communities...particularly rural ones (note our poster is from WV).
My point here, really, is that many communities have pooled resources to help families in crisis.
And if they haven't, someone has to start. Why not this couple? see more
I re-read my posts and I apologize if I came off a bit strong. These are very tough times for many of us regardless as to whether we are taking care of elders or not. Guess I was just a little sensitive to this matter for I have recently run across a string of families in my practice who are singing the same tune but are really taking no action to help themselves.
Perhaps I am unusual in that I am an absolute pit bull when it comes to advocacy and taking responsibility. I often work 12 hour days to help families...lots of that time pro bono...and its striking to me how families will not stand for themselves as fiercely as I will stand for them!
Having to make money drives some people crazy because they are married to the notion that they must have an employer. I was simply trying to EMPHATICALLY make the point that there are always ways to make some extra scratch.
I appreciate, too, your comment about faith based organizations. I am neither and adovcate nor detractor of same but I do recognize the role they play in many communities...particularly rural ones (note our poster is from WV).
My point here, really, is that many communities have pooled resources to help families in crisis.
And if they haven't, someone has to start. Why not this couple? see more
Question
Why would someone want to have a member of their family under a guardianship? They would be unable to have a c...
The plot thickens... You have another son living with you? Is there some reason why you cannot enlist his help in following the... The plot thickens...
You have another son living with you? Is there some reason why you cannot enlist his help in following the suggestions I gave you? The name of the judge is easily aquired (you might even be able to find the records on-line if your court system is large). You just have to do some leg work. see more
You have another son living with you? Is there some reason why you cannot enlist his help in following the suggestions I gave you? The name of the judge is easily aquired (you might even be able to find the records on-line if your court system is large). You just have to do some leg work. see more
Question
How can I get paid or get financial help to keep our home and keep caring for my dad?
Come on man! Butch up! You are depressing me! 1. When it comes to long-term care benefits and Medicaid (if Dad is over 65) Dad's... Come on man! Butch up! You are depressing me!
1. When it comes to long-term care benefits and Medicaid (if Dad is over 65) Dad's income should not be a problem. To qualify for Medicaid when Social Security or any other source of income is too high, one simply needs to create and "Irrevocable Qualified Income Trust" to divert the excess income over the $2,022 per month limit. Call the Medicaid office and ask about this. Some states provide the trust document, others do not but they may be able to refer you to someone who will do it for nominal price. Also try your local Area Agency on Aging (every county has one).
2. Contacting the Area Agency on Aging will also put you in touch with other resources. How about Adult Day Care for few hours? How about cobbling together help/companions from friends, neighbors, church?
3. Does it really take two of you to care for him simultaneously? Take turns with part-time jobs.
4. This is America! What are you good at? Do you cook well? Have a hobby that others admire? Does your wife knit or sew? What can you buy and sell? Are you handy around the house? Would others benefit from your abilities? In other words....become self-employed and self-empowered. You are only 53! Half your life is ahead of you...is this the way you want to live it?
5. Since you are both taking care of elders...maybe you can take care of others as well...for a fee, of course!
You are obviously a family of tremendous strength or you would not be able to do what you have been doing. Stay positive, think out of the box, and go for it! see more
1. When it comes to long-term care benefits and Medicaid (if Dad is over 65) Dad's income should not be a problem. To qualify for Medicaid when Social Security or any other source of income is too high, one simply needs to create and "Irrevocable Qualified Income Trust" to divert the excess income over the $2,022 per month limit. Call the Medicaid office and ask about this. Some states provide the trust document, others do not but they may be able to refer you to someone who will do it for nominal price. Also try your local Area Agency on Aging (every county has one).
2. Contacting the Area Agency on Aging will also put you in touch with other resources. How about Adult Day Care for few hours? How about cobbling together help/companions from friends, neighbors, church?
3. Does it really take two of you to care for him simultaneously? Take turns with part-time jobs.
4. This is America! What are you good at? Do you cook well? Have a hobby that others admire? Does your wife knit or sew? What can you buy and sell? Are you handy around the house? Would others benefit from your abilities? In other words....become self-employed and self-empowered. You are only 53! Half your life is ahead of you...is this the way you want to live it?
5. Since you are both taking care of elders...maybe you can take care of others as well...for a fee, of course!
You are obviously a family of tremendous strength or you would not be able to do what you have been doing. Stay positive, think out of the box, and go for it! see more
Question
How do I get in touch with the Veteran finacial assistance for long-term care?
Here is the deal on VA and long-term care... 1. There are two types of VA benefits available for non-career military; compensation and... Here is the deal on VA and long-term care...
1. There are two types of VA benefits available for non-career military; compensation and pension. Compensation is what most are familiar with...a veteran is injured or disabled as a result of service and they receive a "rating" and a compensation check every month. Pension a non-service connected benefit in that the veteran's disability does not have to be service related. A veteran cannot receive compensation and pension at the same time.
2. There are three levels to VA pension benefits - basic, homebound, aid and attendance. All are needs based. Basic pension can be received without medical evidence. Homebound and Aid and Attendance do.
3. The pension (monthly maximum for vet = $1,650, for couple = $1,950, for surviving spouse = $1,056) is paid directly to the veteran. Claim can be made for virtually any service including care provided by a relative, home health aids, geriatric care management, and assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
4. To qualify the vet must have served at least 90 continuous days one day of which must have been during a TIME of combat (the vet does not have to have served IN combat). The vet must have received at least a general discharge. To be eligible for the survivor benefit, the spouse must have been married to the vet at the time of the vet's demise (no divorce).
5. You will need help to successfully apply for the benefit. You can try a local Veteran Service Office (search for National Association of Veteran Service Officers to find same near you). Keep in mind that Service Officers will not make recommendations with respect to financial planning if the claimant is "over-resourced". Also keep in mind that if the application is not done properly the first time it may take up to 9-12 months to receive an award. Although you can apply on line for veteran benefits, you cannot do so for survivor benefits.
6. Benefits will be retroactive to the month AFTER application.
7. If you use a private consultant pay a fee. Do not use one of the profilgate "we help vets for free" firms that are actually financial service firms, typically insurance brokers, looking to sell high commission annuities. My experience has been that most of these firms are woefully inexperienced in coordinating VA benefits with other public benefit programs and as a result mom's access to Medicaid may be seriously compromised.
To learn more about this benefit directly from the VA, visit here http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/pension/
By the way...qualifyng your parent for Medicaid now, even if she is home, may free up cash for other purposes. Call your local Area Agency on Aging for additional resources.
P.S. The "Checks for Vets' book is OK but really basic...doesn't really contain any information you can't find on the web for free. If your situation is complex it will be of little value. see more
1. There are two types of VA benefits available for non-career military; compensation and pension. Compensation is what most are familiar with...a veteran is injured or disabled as a result of service and they receive a "rating" and a compensation check every month. Pension a non-service connected benefit in that the veteran's disability does not have to be service related. A veteran cannot receive compensation and pension at the same time.
2. There are three levels to VA pension benefits - basic, homebound, aid and attendance. All are needs based. Basic pension can be received without medical evidence. Homebound and Aid and Attendance do.
3. The pension (monthly maximum for vet = $1,650, for couple = $1,950, for surviving spouse = $1,056) is paid directly to the veteran. Claim can be made for virtually any service including care provided by a relative, home health aids, geriatric care management, and assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
4. To qualify the vet must have served at least 90 continuous days one day of which must have been during a TIME of combat (the vet does not have to have served IN combat). The vet must have received at least a general discharge. To be eligible for the survivor benefit, the spouse must have been married to the vet at the time of the vet's demise (no divorce).
5. You will need help to successfully apply for the benefit. You can try a local Veteran Service Office (search for National Association of Veteran Service Officers to find same near you). Keep in mind that Service Officers will not make recommendations with respect to financial planning if the claimant is "over-resourced". Also keep in mind that if the application is not done properly the first time it may take up to 9-12 months to receive an award. Although you can apply on line for veteran benefits, you cannot do so for survivor benefits.
6. Benefits will be retroactive to the month AFTER application.
7. If you use a private consultant pay a fee. Do not use one of the profilgate "we help vets for free" firms that are actually financial service firms, typically insurance brokers, looking to sell high commission annuities. My experience has been that most of these firms are woefully inexperienced in coordinating VA benefits with other public benefit programs and as a result mom's access to Medicaid may be seriously compromised.
To learn more about this benefit directly from the VA, visit here http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/pension/
By the way...qualifyng your parent for Medicaid now, even if she is home, may free up cash for other purposes. Call your local Area Agency on Aging for additional resources.
P.S. The "Checks for Vets' book is OK but really basic...doesn't really contain any information you can't find on the web for free. If your situation is complex it will be of little value. see more
Question
Will the VA pay caregiver to take care of aging Mom? I Quit work to take care of her!
Here is the deal on VA and long-term care... 1. There are two sets of VA benefits available for non-career military; compensation and... Here is the deal on VA and long-term care...
1. There are two sets of VA benefits available for non-career military; compensation and pension. Compensation is what most are familiar with...a veteran is injured or disabled as a result of service and they receive a "rating" and a compensation check every month. Pension is a non-service connected benefit in that the veteran's disability does not have to be service related. A veteran cannot receive compensation and pension at the same time.
2. There are three levels to VA pension benefits - basic, homebound, aid and attendance. All are needs based. Basic pension can be received without medical evidence. Homebound and Aid and Attendance require medical evidence.
3. The pension (monthly maximum for vet = $1,650, for couple = $1,950, for surviving spouse = $1,056) is paid directly to the veteran. Claim can be made for virtually any service including care provided by a relative, home health aids, geriatric care management, and assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
4. To qualify the vet must have served at least 90 continuous days one day of which must have been during a designated TIME of war (the vet does not have to have served IN combat). The vet must have received at least a general discharge. To be eligible for the survivor benefit, the spouse must have been married to the vet at the time of the vet's demise (no divorce).
5. You will need help to successfully apply for the benefit (especially if you are going to try to make claim for yourself as a caregiver). You can try a local Veteran Service Office (search for National Association of Veteran Service Officers to find same near you). Keep in mind that Service Officers will not make recommendations with respect to financial planning if your mother is "over-resourced". Also keep in mind that if the application is not done properly the first time it may take up to 9-12 months to receive an award. Although you can apply on line for veteran benefits, you cannot do so for survivor benefits.
6. Benefits will be retroactive to the month AFTER application no matter how long it takes for an award to be granted.
7. If you use a private consultant, pay a fee. Do not use one of the profilgate "we help vets for free" firms that are actually financial service firms, typically insurance brokers, looking to sell high commission annuities. My experience has been that most of these firms are woefully inexperienced in coordinating VA benefits with other public benefit programs and as a result mom's access to Medicaid may be seriously compromised.
To learn more about this benefit directly from the VA, visit here http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/pension/
By the way...qualifyng mom for Medicaid now, even if she is home, may free up cash for other purposes. Call your local Area Agency on Aging for additional resources. see more
1. There are two sets of VA benefits available for non-career military; compensation and pension. Compensation is what most are familiar with...a veteran is injured or disabled as a result of service and they receive a "rating" and a compensation check every month. Pension is a non-service connected benefit in that the veteran's disability does not have to be service related. A veteran cannot receive compensation and pension at the same time.
2. There are three levels to VA pension benefits - basic, homebound, aid and attendance. All are needs based. Basic pension can be received without medical evidence. Homebound and Aid and Attendance require medical evidence.
3. The pension (monthly maximum for vet = $1,650, for couple = $1,950, for surviving spouse = $1,056) is paid directly to the veteran. Claim can be made for virtually any service including care provided by a relative, home health aids, geriatric care management, and assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
4. To qualify the vet must have served at least 90 continuous days one day of which must have been during a designated TIME of war (the vet does not have to have served IN combat). The vet must have received at least a general discharge. To be eligible for the survivor benefit, the spouse must have been married to the vet at the time of the vet's demise (no divorce).
5. You will need help to successfully apply for the benefit (especially if you are going to try to make claim for yourself as a caregiver). You can try a local Veteran Service Office (search for National Association of Veteran Service Officers to find same near you). Keep in mind that Service Officers will not make recommendations with respect to financial planning if your mother is "over-resourced". Also keep in mind that if the application is not done properly the first time it may take up to 9-12 months to receive an award. Although you can apply on line for veteran benefits, you cannot do so for survivor benefits.
6. Benefits will be retroactive to the month AFTER application no matter how long it takes for an award to be granted.
7. If you use a private consultant, pay a fee. Do not use one of the profilgate "we help vets for free" firms that are actually financial service firms, typically insurance brokers, looking to sell high commission annuities. My experience has been that most of these firms are woefully inexperienced in coordinating VA benefits with other public benefit programs and as a result mom's access to Medicaid may be seriously compromised.
To learn more about this benefit directly from the VA, visit here http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/pension/
By the way...qualifyng mom for Medicaid now, even if she is home, may free up cash for other purposes. Call your local Area Agency on Aging for additional resources. see more
Question
Do you feel that you have just given up on your parents? That there's nothing much you can provide as funds al...
It appears you are experiencing extreme burnout and you should really seek help. All you can do is all you can do physically, emotionally,... It appears you are experiencing extreme burnout and you should really seek help. All you can do is all you can do physically, emotionally, and financially.
First things first. Money is the root of so much stress. Although perhaps not the first concern in the sense that obviously your mother's well being is paramount, but without finding the financial solution you won't be able to deal with anything else.
Look to public benefits. It may not be practical to keep mom at home. I understand it is everyone's first objective but the fact is that it will probably be more affordable for her to live in a decent assisted living facility than at home and benefits may be available to assist with the cost.
What state do you live in? Find out whether there is a Medicaid Waiver program that will help with the cost of assisted living. Call your local Agency on Aging and ask for a care assessment. Tell them your story and ask for help.
Was your father a veteran? Was your mom married to him at his demise? If so she may be eligible for a VA pension called Aid and Attendance (up to $1056 per month).
You feelings are understandable and not at all uncommon. A support group will be of big help to you. see more
First things first. Money is the root of so much stress. Although perhaps not the first concern in the sense that obviously your mother's well being is paramount, but without finding the financial solution you won't be able to deal with anything else.
Look to public benefits. It may not be practical to keep mom at home. I understand it is everyone's first objective but the fact is that it will probably be more affordable for her to live in a decent assisted living facility than at home and benefits may be available to assist with the cost.
What state do you live in? Find out whether there is a Medicaid Waiver program that will help with the cost of assisted living. Call your local Agency on Aging and ask for a care assessment. Tell them your story and ask for help.
Was your father a veteran? Was your mom married to him at his demise? If so she may be eligible for a VA pension called Aid and Attendance (up to $1056 per month).
You feelings are understandable and not at all uncommon. A support group will be of big help to you. see more
Question
How do I claim expenses for taking care of my uncle who has dementia, like travel expense, gas, preparing meal...
Well, anyone can write or enter into a contract with anyone. So the question really is, what should be contained in the contract? You can... Well, anyone can write or enter into a contract with anyone. So the question really is, what should be contained in the contract? You can try searching for "Personal Care Agreement" , "Personal Services Contract", or perhaps Personal Caregiver Agreement" and see what comes up. Part of the issue will be whether you want to maintain Mediciad eligibility for your uncle. If so, it will be important to know how the state he lives in will treat such a contract and the resulting payments.
Some states require a pay back provision to the estate of the elder in the event of death before the term of the contract expires, others do not.
You may be able to find a wills and trusts lawyer (as opposed to, and less expensive than, a board certified elder law attorney) who can draw the proper document at a reasonable fee. You may also be able to find a non-lawyer Medicaid planner in your area that can refer you to a low-cost attorney. If you are in Florida private message me or contact me through my website and I will be happy to refer. see more
Some states require a pay back provision to the estate of the elder in the event of death before the term of the contract expires, others do not.
You may be able to find a wills and trusts lawyer (as opposed to, and less expensive than, a board certified elder law attorney) who can draw the proper document at a reasonable fee. You may also be able to find a non-lawyer Medicaid planner in your area that can refer you to a low-cost attorney. If you are in Florida private message me or contact me through my website and I will be happy to refer. see more
Question
Can you set up a living trust for a parent without an attorney?
Sorry I do not have the name of an attorney in the SF area.
Question
Why would someone want to have a member of their family under a guardianship? They would be unable to have a c...
You sound as though you are surprised by all of this which does not make sense. Guardianship is an extensive process. You seem to have... You sound as though you are surprised by all of this which does not make sense. Guardianship is an extensive process. You seem to have your wits about you so it seems impossible to me that he could have been granted guardianship without you knowing about it.
For guardianship to have been granted there would have to have been medical or some other evidence as to your incompetency and quite often the potential "charge" is required to appear before the judge if there is any question as to that.
If what you are saying is truly the case, here is what I would suggest:
1. Find out if your county has a pro se office in their probate/guardianship division.
2. See if you can get a copy of the filing and the hearing.
3. Get medical records from your physicians as to your competency.
4. Write a letter to the judge who handled your case. Tell him/her the story and include your medical evidence. Ask that an attorney be appointed to you pro bono and that a hearing be scheduled.
5. Don't take no for answer. Show up at the judge's office if need be. How bad do you want it?? see more
For guardianship to have been granted there would have to have been medical or some other evidence as to your incompetency and quite often the potential "charge" is required to appear before the judge if there is any question as to that.
If what you are saying is truly the case, here is what I would suggest:
1. Find out if your county has a pro se office in their probate/guardianship division.
2. See if you can get a copy of the filing and the hearing.
3. Get medical records from your physicians as to your competency.
4. Write a letter to the judge who handled your case. Tell him/her the story and include your medical evidence. Ask that an attorney be appointed to you pro bono and that a hearing be scheduled.
5. Don't take no for answer. Show up at the judge's office if need be. How bad do you want it?? see more
Question
What are my legal and financial rights as my mother's caregiver?
You may claim your mother as a dependent if you are responsible for more than 50% of her support. Carol has a great suggestion since you... You may claim your mother as a dependent if you are responsible for more than 50% of her support. Carol has a great suggestion since you are looking into "legal and financial" and that is to make sure that at the very least you have a durable power of attorney and health care surrogate (medical power of attorney) drawn for your mom while she has her wits about her (an updated wil would be a good idea, too). see more
Question
Question
My step-mother is trying to make my dad's health condition seem worse than it is to get Power of Attorney over...
What is "automotist" (you have it as a diagnosis above)? Let's slow down for a moment before we start calling the... What is "automotist" (you have it as a diagnosis above)?
Let's slow down for a moment before we start calling the authorities.
How sure are you of your stepmom's motives? What does she have to gain by becoming his agent? By your own admission he is experienceing cognitive loss which means that someone must act on his behalf. Apparently, your father gave that responsibility to your stepmother.
Is your father in danger? Is your stepmother having an affair with a 20 year old? What are you worried about?
If your father gave your stepmother this responsibility I would respectfully suggest that you butt out unless there is something seriously wrong. Spend your energy on building positive ties to your stepmom so you can be there for your father.
The bottom line is that unless he is in danger and not being cared for "social services" has better things to do. The only other recourse you will have is legal and you will spend a lot of money and probably lose. Believe it or not...maritial contract is thicker than blood. see more
Let's slow down for a moment before we start calling the authorities.
How sure are you of your stepmom's motives? What does she have to gain by becoming his agent? By your own admission he is experienceing cognitive loss which means that someone must act on his behalf. Apparently, your father gave that responsibility to your stepmother.
Is your father in danger? Is your stepmother having an affair with a 20 year old? What are you worried about?
If your father gave your stepmother this responsibility I would respectfully suggest that you butt out unless there is something seriously wrong. Spend your energy on building positive ties to your stepmom so you can be there for your father.
The bottom line is that unless he is in danger and not being cared for "social services" has better things to do. The only other recourse you will have is legal and you will spend a lot of money and probably lose. Believe it or not...maritial contract is thicker than blood. see more
Question
Does Medicare or Medicaid pay for a nursing home?
Let's make this clear for the poster... Medicare pays for skilled care in a facility if: 1. The beneficiary is first hospitalized for... Let's make this clear for the poster...
Medicare pays for skilled care in a facility if:
1. The beneficiary is first hospitalized for at least 3 days
2. The beneficiary then enters a Medicare approved facility
3. For the same condition for which they were hospitalized
4. Within 30 days of discharge.
If these conditions are met Medicare will pay:
1. The full Medicare approved charge for the first 20 days.
2. All but $137.50 per day for the next 80 days (in 2010).
3. The additional charges are typically covered by Medicare supplements.
The skilled nursing benefit is PER BENEFIT PERIOD. NOT ANNUAL. A benefit period is described as periods of care separated by at least 60 days.
The Medicare beneficiary may be denied skilled nursing benefits even if they have benefit days left. This is because of the definition of skilled care. The patient must be receiveing physician ordered and professionally rendered medically related services and must be making progress. Once progress ceases then the patient is no longer eligible for skilled services and hence, no longer eligible for Medicare skilled nursing benefits.
It would be a this point that one would apply for Medicaid if continued skilled, intermediate, or custodial care was required in a facility.
If things have progressed this far you have hopefully begun to seek some financial guidance. If not, this would be the time to do so. I would suggest that no gifts or transfers or financial commitments or any kind be made until you have done so. see more
Medicare pays for skilled care in a facility if:
1. The beneficiary is first hospitalized for at least 3 days
2. The beneficiary then enters a Medicare approved facility
3. For the same condition for which they were hospitalized
4. Within 30 days of discharge.
If these conditions are met Medicare will pay:
1. The full Medicare approved charge for the first 20 days.
2. All but $137.50 per day for the next 80 days (in 2010).
3. The additional charges are typically covered by Medicare supplements.
The skilled nursing benefit is PER BENEFIT PERIOD. NOT ANNUAL. A benefit period is described as periods of care separated by at least 60 days.
The Medicare beneficiary may be denied skilled nursing benefits even if they have benefit days left. This is because of the definition of skilled care. The patient must be receiveing physician ordered and professionally rendered medically related services and must be making progress. Once progress ceases then the patient is no longer eligible for skilled services and hence, no longer eligible for Medicare skilled nursing benefits.
It would be a this point that one would apply for Medicaid if continued skilled, intermediate, or custodial care was required in a facility.
If things have progressed this far you have hopefully begun to seek some financial guidance. If not, this would be the time to do so. I would suggest that no gifts or transfers or financial commitments or any kind be made until you have done so. see more
Question
How do you find affordable living arrangements?
This really is a great question. The place to start is with some additional questions: What is the goal? What are the requirements? Short... This really is a great question.
The place to start is with some additional questions:
What is the goal?
What are the requirements?
Short term fix or long-term solution?
Who is going to pay for what?
Benefits available to assist with cost?
I'd love to read how you progress through the process... see more
The place to start is with some additional questions:
What is the goal?
What are the requirements?
Short term fix or long-term solution?
Who is going to pay for what?
Benefits available to assist with cost?
I'd love to read how you progress through the process... see more
Can a senior qualify for Medicaid if they receive Medicare?
1. Medicare continues to be their primary insurer. They are free to go to any provider that accepts Medicare. They are not limited to "Medicaid Docs".
2. If they have a Medicare supplement or a member of an HMO or other Medicare Part C plan that insurer or plan is the secondary insurer.
3. Medicaid is now the Tertiary insurer picking up that which the first two do not.
Dual eligibles also receive have their Part B Medicare premium paid, their Part D Rx premium subsidized, Rx co-pays go to $1 and $5 with no "donut hole". see more