The likelihood that you will need some type of long-term care later in life is probably higher than you imagine. Making the proper arrangements to pay for that care can give you peace of mind that you will be taken care of properly. Additionally, effective disability planning can prevent you from becoming a financial burden to your loved ones. At the Law Office of Cynthia Hayes Hutchins, P.C., we are experienced in helping clients plan for the possibility of long-term disability. With over 25 years of experience handling elder law matters, we ensure our clients are fully prepared for future long term care needs. We have extensive experience in advising adult children who are faced with needing to transition an elderly parent. Legal and financial concerns can be addressed with proper planning and legal advice. Because Medicaid rules are unique in the State of Illinois, it is not advisable to rely upon advice obtained on the Internet.
Medicaid benefits can be used to pay for costly nursing home care, but the financial requirements for Medicaid eligibility are strict. With the proper planning, however, you may be able to avoid depleting your assets in order to qualify for Medicaid assistance. For example, with an OBRA Special Needs Trust, also known as Medicaid Payback Trust, you may be able to set aside assets so they are not considered for Medicaid eligibility. Medicaid can then be used to pay for your nursing home care, and you can continue to use your assets for other special needs. Attorney Cindy Hutchins is skilled in assisting clients with Medicaid planning and Trust preparation. We have been advising those facing a long term care transition to understand and implement possible avenues of planning for that care.
In addition to Medicaid planning, it is important to have the proper legal documents in place to handle your Estate and make health care decisions if you are unable to do so for yourself. Powers of Attorney for Healthcare and Living Wills are essential estate planning documents that allow you to choose who will make your decisions and communicate your health care wishes. If you have your assets in a revocable living trust, there are also provisions to grant a Trustee the necessary authority to make decisions if you are incapacitated. Our firm offers comprehensive estate planning assistance and can work with you to ensure you are fully protected should you become temporarily or permanently disabled in the future.
To learn more about how we can assist you or an older family member with Medicaid, elder law or disability planning issues, contact us to schedule a consultation. From our Wheaton office, we help individuals and families throughout DuPage County including Glen Ellyn, Naperville, Warrenville, Winfield, Lombard, Carol Stream, Glendale Heights, Bloomingdale and Lisle.