There's a difference between having Medicaid in the community and being allowed $2000 in exempt assets and being in a nursing home situation where you only get to keep the small monthly allowance that is determined by your state. Lots of people are on Medicaid (or Obamacare if you like) and can still spring for a birthday meal without the wrath of the state falling on them.
In my state, there is an annual review of assets and income. Expenditures are included. I'd hate to explain how I took from someone who has only a small monthly allotment. Plus, I think they are clear that the small monthly allotment is for the benefit of the recipient, not their family members. If she wants to pay for dinner, she could pay the restaurant for her own meal.
My mom in not mobil enough to get to a restaurant .. How would she personally exchange that cash? She is also constantly asking for take out food to be brought because the NH food is simply unpleasant. . Iwhat choice do I have other than to write a check to myself from her remaining on hand cash to cover these costs or ignore her requests..
Why dosen't Medicaid simply take the $ 2000 if they wont allow it to be spent as the client sees fit?
Isn't the remainder of the $2000 and the $50 monthly supposed to be exempt from their requirements other than the asset limit itself?
So they're not seizing it.. but they want to oversee the use of it?
Will this money be seized when my mom passes?
I'm not sure I like the responsible party position. I am not a Medicaid expert and it's not cut and dry.. I feel like I need someone to handle this matter completely but who does it for no cost to the client so I can bail out?
No, Medicaid will ask what the money was used for. People are oon Medicaid because they are low income. My Aunt used $500 to have her car fixed and it was questioned. Mom's money is to be used for her care.
Why dosen't Medicaid simply take the $ 2000 if they wont allow it to be spent as the client sees fit?
Isn't the remainder of the $2000 and the $50 monthly supposed to be exempt from their requirements other than the asset limit itself?
So they're not seizing it.. but they want to oversee the use of it?
Will this money be seized when my mom passes?
I'm not sure I like the responsible party position. I am not a Medicaid expert and it's not cut and dry.. I feel like I need someone to handle this matter completely but who does it for no cost to the client so I can bail out?