Here at Slonim Law we strive to assist you in many Elder Law Matters, but Medicaid Planning is a tricky avenue that we tackle head on. This process is made easy and smooth to navigate by our staff and we look forward to helping you and your family with this process. Here are a few tips and FAQs to check over when seeking help with a Medicaid Matter.
Always call the office and set up an initial consultation.
You can reach our office manager, Barbara, at 321-757-5701. She can set you up with a telephone conference, zoom conference or in office visit at our Melbourne or Kissimmee Locations (and soon, Clearwater!).
You must be eligible for Medicaid.
To be eligible for the Medicaid Institutional Care Program, an applicant needs to satisfy the following:
- U.S. Citizen (or Legal Permanent Resident, 5 years or more)
- Florida Resident
- Aged, Blind, or Disabled
- Placed in a Medicaid Approved Skilled Nursing Facility
- Receiving 24 hours a day/7 days a week Skilled Care (Intermediate I or II Skilled Care) and must be and an appropriate placement
- Must have applied for all benefits available (VA benefits, etc.)
How long does it typically take to be approved for Medicaid?
This varies depending on the financial status of the individual. Technically, once the applicant files the application, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) must “process” the application within 30 days after the date of application, but has up to 90 days to determine eligibility. This may be extended for a variety of reasons, not the least of which being preparing an applicant to file the initial application to appealing an unreasonable denial by DCF.
Giving general rules for so-called “Medicaid planning” is difficult because every client’s case is different.
Some have more savings or income than others. Some are married, others are single. Some have family support, others do not. Some own their own homes, some rent. Still, a number of basic strategies and tools are typically used in Medicaid planning. This is where the experts at Slonim Law come in. We are here to make this process as simple as possible. We look forward to helping you achieve your Medicaid goals soon.
You can find more information regarding Florida Medicaid here. This directs you to the Florida Department of Children and Families and is a wonderful resource to look over while you are preparing for your initial consultation.
Have more questions? Contact Us at Slonim Law and we will gladly help!