Planning for long-term care can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to protect your family and everything you've worked hard to build. In New York City, Medicaid can be a powerful tool to help cover the cost of care, but qualifying for it isn't always easy.

At McAdoo Estate Planning, LLC, we specialize in helping individuals and families navigate the Medicaid process with clarity and confidence. With the right plan in place, you can secure the care you need without putting your home or savings at risk.

Are You Eligible For Medicaid?

To qualify for Medicaid in NYC, you'll need to meet certain financial and non-financial requirements. These include income limits, asset thresholds, and specific criteria depending on your age, health, or veteran status.

Seniors (age 65+), people with disabilities, and veterans may be eligible for additional programs, but even then, the rules can be confusing. A Medicaid lawyer in New York, like our team at McAdoo Estate Planning, LLC, can help you understand all your options and ensure you're on the right track from the very beginning.

The Medicaid Application Process: What to Expect

Applying for Medicaid involves much more than just filling out a form. You'll need to gather financial records, medical documentation, and other paperwork, then submit everything to the right agency. 

The process can take a while, from weeks to possibly even months, and one mistake can cause serious delays. McAdoo Estate Planning, LLC can help you out with all of this. We make sure your application is complete, accurate, and filed properly, giving you the best chance of success.

Spend-Down Strategies: Qualifying Without Losing Everything

If your assets or income are over Medicaid's limits, you may still qualify through a strategy called "spend-down." This involves using excess assets on allowable expenses, like medical bills, home improvements, or even funeral planning.

We'll help you structure your spend-down legally and strategically, so you meet eligibility requirements without risking penalties.

Avoiding Medicaid Estate Recovery

Many families are surprised to learn that after someone passes away, Medicaid may try to recover costs from that person's estate. Fortunately, there are legal ways to protect your home and other assets.

At McAdoo Estate Planning, LLC, we use tools like irrevocable trusts to keep your estate safe and ensure your wishes are carried out. You can schedule a free consultation with us to find out exactly how we can help you.

What Medicaid Covers—and Why It Matters

Medicaid can help pay for critical services, including:

• Nursing home care
• Home health aides
• Assisted living services
  
  

Even if you have a high income or significant assets, planning ahead with the help of a Medicaid attorney can open the door to these benefits while still preserving your wealth.

Why Planning Ahead Makes All the Difference

Medicaid has a five-year “look-back” period, meaning the state reviews your financial activity over the past 60 months. That's why early planning is key—waiting too long can limit your options and leave your family financially vulnerable.

By starting now, you can take advantage of asset protection tools that work best when implemented early. Our team at McAdoo Estate Planning, LLC is here to help you do just that.

How a Medicaid Lawyer Can Help

Working with a Medicaid attorney isn't just about filling out paperwork—it's about having an expert by your side who understands how to:

• Protect your assets
• Navigate complex rules
• Ensure your application is handled properly
• Avoid delays and penalties
  
  

We've helped many New York families qualify for Medicaid, and we'd be honored to help you, too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Medicaid take my house if I enter a nursing home?

Not necessarily. With proper planning, such as placing your home in a trust, you may be able to protect it from Medicaid recovery.

How do I apply for Medicaid?

You'll need to gather key financial and medical documents, complete the application, and submit it to your local Medicaid office. A lawyer can make the process much smoother.

What's the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?

Medicare is a federal program for seniors; Medicaid is income-based and covers long-term care.

How do I know if I qualify?

It depends on your income, assets, and health. We can help you find out quickly and clearly.

What does a Medicaid lawyer do?

We help you preserve your assets, plan ahead, and apply for Medicaid with the best chance of success.

When should I start Medicaid planning?

As early as possible—ideally at least five years before you think you'll need care.

What is the Medicaid look-back period?

New York Medicaid reviews your finances for the past five years to ensure there were no improper asset transfers.

What is a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT)?

It's a legal tool that helps you protect your assets while still qualifying for Medicaid.

Can a lawyer help with the application itself?

Absolutely. We'll walk you through every step, making sure everything is accurate and on time.

Let's Secure Your Future—Together

If you or a loved one may need long-term care, now is the time to plan. At McAdoo Estate Planning, LLC, we make the Medicaid process manageable and help you preserve what matters most.

Schedule your free consultation today with a skilled Medicaid attorney in NYC. We're here to help you navigate the system with confidence, protect your legacy, and give your family peace of mind.