Think you have to be poor to qualify for Medicaid? Think again. In this episode of Asset Protection Today, elder law attorney Bill Alexander breaks down the biggest misconceptions about Medicaid eligibility using a real client case study, "Jane and John," a couple navigating a sudden health crisis, nursing home costs, and long-term care planning over more than a decade.

Bill walks through exactly how Medicaid planning works: protecting a home and vehicle, using a Medicaid-qualified annuity, setting up a supplemental needs trust, and avoiding the five-year look-back penalty — all while preserving hundreds of thousands of dollars in family assets. He also explains the critical differences between Medicaid, Special Assistance, and how eligibility rules shift depending on whether a loved one needs home care, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing care.

If you're worried about the cost of long-term care for yourself or a loved one, or you've heard conflicting information about Medicaid eligibility, this episode offers a clear, real-world roadmap from one of North Carolina's most respected elder law attorneys.

Want to learn more? W.G. Alexander & Associates hosts free educational webinars on asset protection, trust planning, and long-term care. Sign up at https://wgalaw.com/seminars/

Chapters:
(1:42) Medicaid Misconceptions & Overview
(3:10) Case Study: Jane & John's Health Crisis
(5:36) Medicaid Planning Strategies: Assets, Annuities & Trusts
(9:16) Medicaid Approval & "Money Follows the Person" Program
(12:16) 15 Years Later: Jane & John's Changing Needs
(13:26) Special Assistance vs. Medicaid: Key Differences
(16:12) Care Levels & Which Program Applies
(17:00) Why Planning Early Matters

#Medicaid #EstatePlanning #ElderLaw #AssetProtection #LongTermCare #MedicaidPlanning #FinancialPlanning