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We are in Pennsylvania. I am caregiver formy 86 y/o dad who is in rehab. I need some help understanding Medicaid. He has too much to qualify but not a lot so I want to plan to get him eligible. I have been reading and understand the basics of what count, etc., but for the love of God it’s so much information. Are there are pro bono services out there to help? Thanks! 💕

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When you say your father has too much, do you mean his assets or his monthly income? If it's assets, it's easier because he just has to spend down to whatever Pennsylvania's asset limit is, e.g., by paying privately for facility care until the money is spent down to the allowable level. There are articles and discussions here on Aging Care about "Medicaid spend-down," so I won't repeat here. If his monthly income is over the allowable limit, you'll need to check as to how to handle this. Some states allow for what is called a Miller Trust where the income over the allowable amount is deposited into the trust and the money in the trust pays the state back after the person passes away. For long term care Medicaid, the person must pay all their monthly income, less a personal needs allowance, to the facility and Medicaid makes up the difference. Rather than spending on a lawyer right now, you should perhaps start with working with a social worker at the rahab place and/or call the Pennsylvania office that administers the Medicaid long term care program and ask them questions. Each state is different, so it's hard for folks on this forum to be able to answer except in generalities.
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Reply to newbiewife
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Find a qualified elderlaw/estate planning attorney. You'll probably have to pay for her/his services, but it's well worth the money to do this correctly,
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Reply to swmckeown76
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