Welcome to Part 2 of our episode on Medical Assistance for Long Term Care in Minnesota. This is a HOT topic and one that deserved some extra time! In this episode, Robyn and Eliesa welcome back Rachel Schromen of Schromen Law, LLC answers more questions and gives practical examples and tips on the strategy and process behind applying for Medical Assistance for Long Term Care. What’s a 5 year look back? What’s a spend down? What are Medical Assistant Divorces and why do they happen? There is so much great information in this episode!

Hot Tip: Spend the money and hire an attorney - it’s worth the investment! We’re not here to sell, we are here to guide you through and hopefully shed some light on a subject that is fraught with financial and emotional loss.

**Please note that we are not offering specific legal advice - Use this advice to ask the questions in your states, with your attorneys.**

Takeaways:

• The benefits of Pre Planning for Long Term Care
• The benefits of hiring an attorney to help - especially to flag for exemptions in MN that get missed a lot.
• Clarifying the terms: 5 year Look Back, Asset Reduction and Spenddown terminology
• The cost of care in America is HIGH right now - we will all need long term planning and the earlier the better because you have options.
• Ongoing MA maintenance
• Some real life examples of a medical assistance spenddown before annual renewals
• Medical Assistance Divorces and why do they happen
• What’s the most frequent question an attorney gets asked by families applying for Medical Assistance for long term care?

Links and Resources:

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys - a national resource to help connect you with Elder Law Attorneys around the country!

Schromen Law, LLC - Learn more about Rachel’s practice and approach to Estate Planning and Elder Law. We know we’ll be making an appointment!

10 Questions to ask your Estate Planning Attorney - A very cool document provided by Schromen Law, LLC that walks you through questions to ask while calling around for Estate Planning and Elder Law.

Minnesota Application for Medical Assistance for Long Term Care - if you’re interested in a DIY approach. A word of caution - these forms can seem deceivingly simple. We might recommend hiring a pro to help guide you.

Low Income Resources:

Mid Minnesota Legal Aid

LawHelpMN.Org