Who Gets Medicaid?

Medicaid is a needs-based program designed to provide individuals and families with health care and assistance. It is funded by both the federal government and the states, but management is left to the states. As such, Medicaid in Texas may differ somewhat from Medicaid in another state. If you are having difficulty qualifying for Medicaid, or need assistance of some other sort, a College Station elder law attorney can help.

Who Is Eligible for Medicaid?

At its most basic level, Medicaid is designed for those who have little or no income. The following are groups for whom Medicaid was originally established:

• Senior citizens who are low income
• Individuals who have disabilities
• Families with little to no income
• Infants and children in families that have very little income or resources
• Individuals who receive Supplemental Security Income
• Those in another assistance program, such as Work First Family Assistance
• Seniors in elder care facilities

The eligibility was expanded recently in accordance with the Affordable Care Act to include those with low income, defined for these purposes as those who are under 133% of the poverty line.

What if I Have Assets?

Generally speaking, individuals who possess substantial assets, such as a home, will not qualify for Medicaid. In the past, people would sometimes sell a property and give away assets in order to qualify. Be cautioned that this is not a wise idea today, as the federal government will do a “look back” of five years to determine whether such a “dumping” of assets has taken place.

How Do I Apply?

There are a number of different Medicaid programs. Your attorney can help you decide which is best suited to your needs. Once you select the program you want, fill out the application. You will need to include supporting documents. In addition, you must have a Social Security number and be a U.S. Citizen or legal immigrant, as well as a Texas resident.

What if I Have Questions?

If you have questions or need help with obtaining Medicaid, a College Station elder law lawyer will gladly assist. Call Peterson Law Group today to arrange an initial meeting at 979-703-7014 or 936-337-4681.