Why wouldn't it be legal? If she lived anywhere else she would be paying rent, utilities, bills, and food etc costs. To cover yourself, I would suggest giving her a receipt for room and board/rent each month.
My suggestion is to get with all siblings involved and lay out what expenses your mother will be paying. I would get it in writing so there are no misunderstandings further down the road. With your mom having Alzheimer's , if it were me I would protect myself from anyone accusing me of taking advantage because she wasn't able to make those decisions.I agree with sandy, she would be paying much more elsewhere. Good luck
It is not only legal, but sensible. And it is perfectly legal and sensible for her to pay you for the care you provide as well. After all, by providing her 24/7 care you are not able to be bringing in income.
Do come up with a care agreement that spells out what is being provided and the amount she is paying.
Anniebugs, see a lawyer and have simple care agreement drawn up. (Pay for the contract visit from Mother's funds.) This will help make it clear how the money is being used on her behalf, in case there are ever any questions in the future, for example if she has to apply for medicaid, or relatives think they need to know.
If you have siblings, you do not need their blessing to do this. You have POA. You are the primary caregiver. Depending on the nature of your relationship with them and their role in caregiving, you may wish to discuss it with them, and perhaps ask for their input. But it is your decision, on your mother's behalf, and you do not need to take a vote or ask permission.
I have been on my mother's bank accounts for years ,15 years or so. I pay all her expenses out of her money. She is in a rehab/skilled nursing facility. It is very expensive and her money will soon be gone and I will have to put her on Medicaid. I dread this. I have from time to time had her pay for things around the house and some improvements. She is on the title of our home as she contributed on the purchase about 8 years ago. She lived here , me as caregiver, for those years. Am I going to be in trouble when it comes time for the Medicaid because I spent some of her money? Will I have to account for this? I am really scared as our personnel finances are not good. Does any one have an answer? I have been to two attorneys but don't feel that I got real advice though it cost considerably. I can't spend anymore of her money for advice. Thanks. Carol
Medicaid only looks back five years so if the money was spent prior to this it doesn't count. Not sure how the house will be counted. They are allowed tohave a house without penalty but not sure about co ownership. It could lead to medicaid putting a lien against it so they can try to recoup the money spent for your moms longtermcare. Good luck and let me know what you find out.
Do come up with a care agreement that spells out what is being provided and the amount she is paying.
Who has POA for your mother?
If you have siblings, you do not need their blessing to do this. You have POA. You are the primary caregiver. Depending on the nature of your relationship with them and their role in caregiving, you may wish to discuss it with them, and perhaps ask for their input. But it is your decision, on your mother's behalf, and you do not need to take a vote or ask permission.
Carol