Springfield Elder Law Attorneys

Supporting Southwest Missouri's Elder Law Needs

Medicaid laws are very complex and constantly changing. With knowledgeable legal assistance at Neale & Newman, the process of navigating the requirements and becoming eligible as soon as possible can be made simple. Eligibility for Medicaid must be established before coverage is approved by the Missouri Department of Social Services. 

Anyone attempting to apply for Medicaid here in Missouri needs to know the rules. Certain actions with respect to assets can lead to penalties which can delay receiving Medicaid benefits. Our goal is to keep you focused on what is important, the well-being of your loved one, while we focus on finding the simplest and most beneficial avenue to eligibility for your loved one. Your plan and application is unique, as no two people have the same set of circumstances, thus consulting an experienced elder law attorney is vital.

Ready for an Elder Law Consultation? We're here to meet your needs. Call 417-670-2720 today.

What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a public benefits program structured to provide health coverage to low-income individuals, including those who are 65 or older, disabled or blind. The program acts as a safety net to those seniors who cannot afford to cover all of their own long-term costs. In Missouri, most Medicaid benefits are available only in skilled nursing facilities (a nursing home as opposed to an assisted living facility) or for Supplemental Nursing Care. With many intricacies, it can be especially difficult for married couples, where one or both are entering a nursing home, to preserve their assets without the assistance of an experienced attorney.

What is the Cost of Nursing Home Care in Missouri?

The cost of nursing home care in Missouri averages $7,000 per month. Home health care can cost even more depending on the number of hours and the level of care that a person needs at home. A family’s life savings can easily be spent in a matter of months when a family member needs long-term nursing home care or home health care. 

How to Qualify for Medicaid

To qualify for Medicaid in Missouri or (Missouri MO HealthNet) you must:

• Be a resident of Missouri
• Be a U.S. national, citizen, permanent resident, or legal alien
• Need assistance with insurance
• Have a financial situation that is “low income” or “very low income”
• Be one of the following:
  • Be over 65 years old
  • Have a disability
  • Have a family member in your household who has a disability
  • Be blind
  • Be responsible for a child who is 18 years old or younger
  • Pregnant

Call an Elder Law Lawyer in Springfield Today

Our Elder Law Attorneys in Springfield, MO are ready to help you today. Call us at 417-670-2720!