Florida Medicaid Planning Resource Center

Providing Resources to Help You Navigate the Complicated World of Medicaid Planning 

Welcome to the Florida Medicaid Planning Resources page of Flammia Elder Law Firm. Navigating the intricate landscape of Medicaid in Florida can be a complex and daunting task, but you don’t have to face it alone.

We provide comprehensive and up-to-date information to guide you through the Medicaid planning process. Whether you’re seeking eligibility insights, to understand income and asset limits, or exploring strategies for long-term care, our resources are tailored to assist you in making informed decisions. If you have questions regarding Medicaid planning or eligibility, please contact us at 407-478-8700 to schedule a consultation.

Our commitment at Flammia Elder Law Firm is to empower you with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively plan for your healthcare needs, ensuring peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Medicaid Planning News & Insights


Will Medicaid Pay for a Stay at a Nursing Home?

April 17, 2024

When a cherished family member requires continuous care or faces a sudden decline in health, the decision to transition them to a nursing home or assisted living facility can be heart-wrenching. Yet, beyond the emotional challenges, families often confront an…

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Flammia Elder Law Firm Medicaid Planning Guide

Avoid Costly Mistakes & Protect Your Assets

  • What is Medicaid Planning?
  • How do I qualify for Medicaid?
  • Do I have to spend down my assets to qualify for Medicaid?
  • How do I apply?

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Medicaid Planning FAQ


Medicaid is a government-funded program designed to assist those over 65, blind, or disabled with their long-term healthcare needs. This program is vital for those who require both regular healthcare services and long-term care, such as support provided in nursing homes or assisted living facilities.

At its core, Medicaid is especially beneficial for individuals who might not have the financial means to cover their healthcare expenses independently. In Florida, there are various Medicaid programs tailored to meet the needs of individuals who cannot afford care on their own.

One common misconception about Medicaid is that it’s only for the financially destitute. However, eligibility for Medicaid is based on stringent financial criteria, which often leads many to mistakenly assume they won’t qualify. It’s important to understand these requirements to determine if you or your loved ones are eligible for Medicaid benefits.

To qualify for Medicaid in Florida, applicants must meet certain financial requirements that are based on income and asset limits. These requirements can vary depending on the specific Medicaid program and the applicant’s circumstances, such as whether they are applying for standard Medicaid, Medicaid for the Aged and Disabled, or Long-Term Care Medicaid. Here are the general guidelines:

  • Income Limits: For an individual, the monthly income limit is often set at a level that is a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). This amount can change yearly. 

For married couples, the income limit is higher than for individuals, but it still depends on whether one or both are applying.

  • Asset Limits: Medicaid also considers the applicant’s assets. The asset limit for an individual is typically set at a relatively low level (it may be around $2,000, but this can vary). 

For married couples, the asset limit is higher, particularly when only one spouse is applying for Medicaid. There are special rules, like the Community Spouse Resource Allowance (CSRA), that allow the non-applicant spouse to retain a certain amount of the couple’s assets.

  • Exemptions and Countable Assets: Certain assets are not counted towards the asset limit, such as the applicant’s primary home (up to a certain equity value), personal belongings, one vehicle, and certain types of burial funds. 

Other assets, like bank accounts, stocks, additional properties, and certain types of trusts, are typically considered countable assets; however, our Medicaid planning utilizes strategies to convert countable assets to exempt assets.

  • Five-Year Look-Back Period: Florida Medicaid has a five-year look-back period for asset transfers. This means any asset transfers made for less than fair market value within five years of applying for Medicaid can result in a penalty period, delaying eligibility.

It’s important to note that these guidelines are general, and the specific numbers can change annually. Additionally, Medicaid planning can be complex, and strategies like converting nonexempt assets to exempt assets or the use of certain types of trusts might be used to help meet eligibility requirements.

Due to the complexity and the potential for regulatory changes, it is often advisable to consult with a Medicaid planning attorney who specializes in elder law to get accurate and personalized advice. If you need assistance determining eligibility for Medicaid, we invite you to call our office to schedule a consultation. As experienced Medicaid planning lawyers, we can evaluate your income and assets and explain your legal options for seeking coverage.

To qualify for Florida Medicaid, applicants must meet several key criteria. First and foremost, they need to be residents of Florida and either U.S. nationals, citizens, permanent residents, or legally residing aliens.

This program is specifically designed to aid those who require assistance with health care or insurance and whose financial circumstances fall under the low or very low-income bracket. Eligibility extends to individuals who are 65 years of age or older, blind, or declared disabled by the Social Security Administration.

It is important to note that meeting these basic criteria is just the first step in the eligibility process. The specific financial requirements, such as income and asset limits, are also crucial factors in determining Medicaid qualification. As these details can be complex and are subject to change, seeking guidance from a professional experienced in Medicaid law, like those at Flammia Elder Law Firm, can be invaluable in navigating the application process effectively.

Florida Medicaid defines income as any earnings from employment or any funds that are received as financial support. This includes various sources like unemployment benefits, Social Security payments, retirement benefits, and child support. When applying for Medicaid, the size of your family and the specific Medicaid program for which you are applying are important factors that influence eligibility.

Having private health insurance does not disqualify an individual from Medicaid eligibility in Florida.

While you may qualify for Medicaid even with existing private health insurance, it’s important to note that certain Medicaid programs have specific rules about concurrent health insurance coverage. Some of these programs may require that you do not have any other form of health insurance. Therefore, it is essential to understand the requirements of the specific Medicaid program you are considering.

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