Rochester Elder Law logo

Call (585) 256-0090

Protecting Your Assets from Nursing Home Costs

At Rochester Elder Law, we can help you prepare for the possibility of nursing home care, and the unexpected cost, in advance.


We'll work to protect your assets for your spouse and family as we have been doing for decades.

Schedule a Consult

Watch our Free Webinar to learn more about preparing for long-term care.

Paying for Nursing Home Care

The Staggering Costs of Long-Term Care

One of the greatest fears of older Americans is ending up in a nursing home. Nearly one in two women and one in four men find themselves in nursing homes at some point in their lives, facing a tremendous financial burden.


Depending on location and level of care, nursing homes can cost over $200,000 a year.

Private Pay vs. Medicaid: Understanding Your Options

Most people pay for nursing home care out of their savings until they run out of money, then qualify for Medicaid benefits. Paying privately may give you access to better quality facilities and postpone dealing with government bureaucracy, but it's very expensive and can wipe out your life savings.

Medicare's Limited Coverage for Nursing Home Care

Medicare Part A covers up to 100 days of "skilled nursing" care per illness, but the conditions for obtaining this coverage are stringent. As a result, Medicare pays for only about 9 percent of nursing home care in the United States.

Navigating Medicaid Eligibility Rules in New York

Medicaid is the government insurance plan for long-term institutional care. To be eligible for Medicaid, you must qualify under the program's guidelines.


Medicaid is a joint federal-state program, with each state operating its own system within federal guidelines. This complicates matters, as Medicaid eligibility rules vary by state and change frequently.


In New York, the rules are complex but can be explained simply by our experienced attorneys.

Schedule a Consult

Get Our FREE Guide,
"The Top Eight Mistakes People Make with Medicaid Qualification" when you sign up for Weekly News & Updates.


Subscribe Here

Medicaid Eligibility Myths and Realities

You May Qualify for Medicaid Even with Significant Assets.

Many people believe that Medicaid is only for those with very limited resources. This common misconception can prevent individuals and families from exploring their options for long-term care coverage. However, the truth is that with proper planning and guidance, even those with significant assets can often qualify for Medicaid while preserving their wealth for the future.


At Rochester Elder Law (formerly Dutcher & Zatkowsky), our experienced attorneys have helped countless clients navigate the complex Medicaid eligibility rules in New York. In many cases, we've been able to assist clients who were previously told by other professionals that they had too many assets to qualify. Through strategic Medicaid planning, we can help you structure your assets in a way that allows you to receive the care you need without depleting your life savings.


Don't let misinformation about Medicaid keep you from getting the support and coverage you deserve. Contact Rochester Elder Law today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you protect your assets while securing the long-term care you need.

Schedule a Consult

Rochester Elder Law Can Help Protect Your Assets

We can qualify you for Medicaid and apply on your behalf, which allows you to preserve your assets while you receive the care you need.

Schedule a Consult

Medicaid Planning
& Asset Protection
FAQs

  • What is Medicaid Planning?

    Needing a nursing home can cause a family to lose their life savings. Medicaid planning is a proven way the law allows you to protect assets. Every case is different, so a consultation is the only way to better understand what you are entitled to keep.

  • My parents are older and own their own home. Should they transfer it to the children?

    The transfer of assets should not be done without consideration by an experienced Elder Law firm such as Rochester Elder Law. The transfer of assets, joint accounts, gifting of assets to children or grandchildren, will impact benefits they may apply for now or in the future. A consultation will answer these questions.

  • I have heard I will need to “spend down” my loved one’s assets in order for them to be eligible for Medicaid benefits.

    In many cases we can protect those assets. Before acting on any information or advice such as this, make a consultation with us to discuss and understand all your options.

  • What happens if my spouse goes into a nursing home but I am living in the community?

    We can take steps to protect you and your assets in the event your spouse will be institutionalized.

  • What if my spouse has a stroke and needs a nursing home?

    A stroke can cause devastating results. If a loved one has a sudden life-changing medical event, you may need to redo your estate plan or even engage in Medicaid planning to protect your assets.

Read More About Medicaid & Asset Protection

A person is putting a coin into a piggy bank that says long term care
September 10, 2024
Medicaid, a joint federal and state program, provides health insurance to low-income individuals and families. However, due to the high costs associated with long-term care, Medicaid planning has become increasingly important for individuals with higher net worth. This strategic approach allows people to legally restructure their financial resources to meet eligibility requirements while preserving assets for their loved ones. Learn more...
A man is sitting at a desk with a magnifying glass scrutinizing a Medicaid application.
August 6, 2024
In today's world, planning for long-term care is more crucial than ever. With the rising costs of healthcare, many New York seniors turn to Medicaid to help cover their long-term care expenses. However, qualifying for Medicaid isn't as simple as it may seem. One of the most important aspects to understand is the five-year look-back period. In this post, we'll explore what this means for New York residents and how you can plan effectively to protect your assets while still qualifying for Medicaid benefits.
A senior man and a woman meeting with an elder law attorney are signing a legal document.
June 25, 2024
As Americans age, many rely on family members or friends to assist with managing their financial, health, and personal affairs. While involving loved ones in the planning process is important, it's crucial to also seek the guidance of an elder law attorney. At Rochester Elder Law, our attorneys specialize in the complex issues surrounding retirement, wills, and estate planning, ensuring that decisions are tailored to each senior's unique situation. The benefits of working with an elder law attorney...
Show More

Ready to get started?

Contact Rochester Elder Law today for a consultation to learn how we can help protect your assets and plan for the future.

Schedule a Consult

Or call us at (585) 256-0090 ext. 103

Share by: