In New York, who is eligible for Community Medicaid?
In general, persons needing long-term care services in New York may qualify for community Medicaid provided they fulfill specific income and asset criteria. They may also transfer assets to another person or a trust to qualify for the program. If they meet these standards, they will be eligible for Community Medicaid benefits the month following the transfer. If a person’s assets exceed the income restrictions, they may utilize a trust to safeguard their earnings.
The new Community Medicaid eligibility standards in New York will go into effect on April 1, 2021. However, clients can plan ahead of time for these changes and implement measures that will maximize their chances of getting benefits. While the adjustments will likely hurt many New Yorkers, they are also projected to benefit the program. As long as the new standards are followed appropriately, community Medicaid will continue to be provided to a broader population than previously.
Individuals must be 65 or older and handicapped to qualify for Community Medicaid. They must also show that they have a verified need for the services. They must also have at least two essential daily activities (ADLs). Applicants must also be financially qualified. The government will assess their income and assets to see whether they can afford to pay for services.
The initiative is intended to help persons with minimal means. Medicaid is, therefore, a means-tested program. It is meant for persons with modest incomes and assets. Those with impairments might also get extra Social Security payments. There are two aspects to the program: community Medicaid and residential care. Community Medicaid covers nursing homes and assisted living institutions. These hospitals provide treatment to most New Yorkers who qualify for Medicaid.
Community Medicaid recipients in New York can get home health care, adult day care, personal care support, and assisted living services. The lookback time will be thirty months (2.5 years), whichever comes first. The shift to Community Medicaid will be accomplished in stages. The first phase is expected to begin on October 1, 2022, while the second phase will start in April 2023.
While the Community Medicaid program faces adjustments, the latest Coronavirus outbreak has already affected eligibility. While the government cannot remove Community Medicaid immediately, the COVID Public Health Emergency (COVID) has stopped it from eliminating Medicaid or boosting “spend-down.” If you or a loved one is becoming older, you should consider alternatives. An elder law expert can guide you through the new Community Medicaid program and help you make the best selections.
Cash, equities, investments, vacation houses, savings, and checking accounts are all examples of countable assets. However, many assets are free from these requirements. These assets include personal items, IRAs with payout status, and non-refundable pre-paid funeral arrangements. Furthermore, a principal residence is excluded from the countable asset restrictions provided the applicant resides in it and has less than $955,000 in equity.
Community Medicaid in New York is intended to assist those who need in-home care. The program is open to disabled and elderly adults in New York State. There was no “lookback time” for asset donations before, so if you gave away your assets a month before registering for Community Medicaid in New York, you might collect home care benefits the following month. New state legislation, however, will make it more difficult for individuals to participate in the program.
