While some people understand the finer details of Medicaid, others don’t know the first thing about this government program. Unfortunately, this means that some people miss out on receiving benefits.
Before you do anything, such as applying for Medicaid or consulting with a lawyer, it would be in your best interest to learn more about the program as a whole.
Medicaid.gov shares a comprehensive definition of Medicaid:
“Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that, together with the Children’s Health Insurance Program, provides health coverage to over 72.5 million Americans, including children, pregnant women, parents, seniors and individuals with disabilities. Medicaid is the single largest source of health coverage in the United States.”
Now do you see why Medicaid is so important? This federal and state program provides health care coverage to tens of millions of people who may have otherwise been unable to receive coverage that can help keep them healthy.
Of course, just because you understand what Medicaid entails doesn’t mean that you have a clear understanding of where you fit in. This is why it makes good sense to consult with a Medicaid lawyer. Here are three situations in which you should consider reaching out to a legal professional:
- To Discuss Your Eligibility
Let’s face it: the Medicaid system is more complex than it should be. With this in mind, you may not fully realize where you fit in.
Are you eligible for benefits at the present time? Could you find yourself in position to receive coverage through the program in the future?
When it comes to eligibility, there are many details to consider. Even if you research on your own, such as via the internet, you are still going to have some questions. This is why it’s a good idea to speak with a Medicaid lawyer about your situation.
- To Protect the Future of a Loved One
Do you have a disabled child, for example? If so, you know one thing to be true: you have to create an estate plan that will help provide for this person after you are gone. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done.
By working with a Medicaid lawyer, you can make decisions, such as the use of a special needs trust, that can help protect this person’s Medicaid benefits down the road.
If you neglect to take the appropriate steps, you could jeopardize your loved one’s ability to receive Medicaid – and that is not a risk you should be willing to take.
- To File for Medicaid Benefits
Some people have no problem working through the Medicaid application process, but others continually run into trouble while doing so. Are you concerned that you won’t be able to make it through the application on your own? Are you worried about making mistakes?
Rather than waste time, consult with a Medicaid attorney who can walk you through the application process.
Note: if you’ve been denied for Medicaid but have reason to believe that you’re eligible, you should also get legal help. The reason for your denial could be something as simple as an application or processing error. You’re better off checking into what happened than simply assuming that you don’t qualify for benefits.
Conclusion
There are many common questions associated with the Medicaid program. Along the same lines, it’s only natural to have some concerns if you don’t know the system like the back of your hand.
There are times when you have no choice but to consult with a Medicaid lawyer. If you find yourself in this position, don’t hesitate to get professional help.
At Frank & Kraft, Attorneys at Law, we can assist you with anything and everything associated with the Medicaid system. It doesn’t matter if you’re applying for coverage or hoping to protect the future benefits of a loved one, we can step in and point you in the right direction.
If you need any help, contact us or call today at (317) 684-1100 to discuss your situation and receive advice in regards to what you should do next.
Mr. Kraft assists clients primarily in the areas of estate planning and administration, Medicaid planning, federal and state taxation, real estate and corporate law, bringing the added perspective of an accounting background to his work.
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