In past years my dad has always purchased 3 gift cards for his daughters and family members. Is this allowed? I keep hearing I must spend down his money and have tried to purchase things for him for his complete comfort. I didn’t want to do anything that wasn’t right.
But he is insistent I get Christmas in order. I think gift cards were 100.00 each. thanks
If it weren't for that, the correct thing would be to continue to carry out your father's wishes as he has always done it for himself, provided it doesn't affect his own financial welfare.
But Medicaid does make a difference because they will look back over the last five years at where his money has gone, and money that has been given away could affect his eligibility. That $300 would be added back in as a penalty, for example, and delay when he could start receiving support.
Your state probably will provide clear guidelines about what is and is not allowed when Medicaid calculates legitimate spending. Try Googling "allowable expenses for Medicaid in [your state]" and you should be able to find out.
To avoid his being upset this season, could he be persuaded to try a more modest gift, say $10 each? Or could you buy the $100 ones as normal, and then each recipient could discreetly pay it back into his account?
Why do you have to spend down his money? Are you trying to qualify him for Medicaid? You might want to speak to an elder care attorney so you know exactly what you can and cannot do.
I am paying for his beautiful care hime for I hope about a year till his money gets down to 2,000
encouraged by lawyer and judge to spend down his money as far as ANYTHING HE NEEDS and that is what I intend to do
he deserves new clothing winter items tv for his room nice chair ect don’t you agree???
I was guardian for my Husband (long story) and he always would buy me a gift at Christmas as well as for my birthday. I purchased a gift and I was told that I would have to repay the funds back into his account.
I would say IF your dad is aware enough to verbalize that he wants to buy a gift for family members then it might be alright. But it might be something you want to ask the lawyer or be prepared to repay into his account the value of the cards purchased. (You might even want the lawyer to ask dad if he wants to buy gifts if he responds appropriately then it may be acceptable.)
I would think that family members would understand not getting a gift this year. (if they don't ..they don't deserve a gift anyway!)
The only reason to "spend down" his funds is if you will need to apply for Medicaid for him.
If you are one of the 3 daughters and guardian, I may not get one for myself. If Medicaid questions the $200, then easily paid back.
P.S. the price consulting an elder lawyer may cost as much or more than just giving the $200.
I've ordered lots of expensive things for my folks over the years, including two $1500 zero gravity recliners, some furniture, mattresses, Harry & David pears, all sorts of things......Italian cookies that are $28/lb. Those are living expenses and small luxury items aren't what Medicaid is worried about.
Naturally, if you have questions/concerns, you should speak to someone who helps you go thru the Medicaid application process, or, an Elder Care atty. The nursing home I want to get my mother into gave me the name & phone number of 3 agencies that handle Medicaid applications and walk you thru it, provide the forms, answer questions, and submit the apps and do the follow ups. VERY helpful people.
Good luck!