Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Certified Medicaid Planner™?

A Certified Medicaid Planner™, also known as a CMP™, is a professional in the Medicaid planning field who has been awarded certification by the CMP™ Governing Board. 

Certification is granted based upon the qualified candidate demonstrating a mastery of the skills and knowledge of the subject matter. 

—cmpboard.org

2.  Will going into a Skilled Nursing Facility require that all my household assets will need to be depleted? (i.e. home, car, retirement funds, etc.)

No two cases are ever alike. Presumptions or listening to hearsay most likely will cause you to miss out on opportunities of which you may be entitled to. 

The rules of Medicaid are complex and contain provisions that pertain to household assets ranging from small to large in value; failure to promptly have your situation reviewed could lead to unnecessary depletion of assets. 

3. My Father needs to be placed into a Skilled Nursing Facility.  If we employ your service, do you provide  guidance and solutions throughout the entire Medicaid application process for submission to the PA Department of Human Services?

Yes, our goal at Skilled Medicaid Planning LLC, is to explain the Medicaid Rules in a common and uncomplicated way, so that they are easily understood, along with providing guidance from start to finish, all within the Medicaid Rules and Regulations. 

In addition, we act as an intermediary between the PA Department of Human Services and the Skilled Nursing  Facility.

4. The decision has just been made that my wife needs to be placed  into a Skilled Nursing Facility.  This has been an emotionally stressful time, and I’m really confused right now. On top of everything else, I wonder how the financial obligations for her Nursing Home care and my living expenses are going to be met. Can you guide me in the right direction to help me understand what is available to me?

We hear this time and time again from families who are looking for peace of mind and some answers. We fully recognize your concerns and can advise you on the Medicaid rules which benefit your situation .

5. What is the 5-year look back period, and does it apply to me? Is it still  possible to qualify for Medicaid, if I gave something away/gifted within the 5-year look back period?  Do the IRS rules on gifting differ from those within the Medicaid regulations?

The answer is yes to all  of the above questions.

• The 5-year look back period is the 60-month period prior to applying for Medicaid. The details of this period are reviewed to determine Medicaid eligibility.  The 5-year look back period can be very complicated, if you do not know the facts.      
• There are provisions within the Medicaid rules and regulations which may specifically apply to your situation. The 5-year look back period is worth seeking advice on, to prevent any loss of opportunity.

6. What is the difference between Medicaid and Medicare, as it relates to the payment for Skilled Nursing Home care? Aren’t they the same thing?

No, they are two completely separate and independent Programs. 

• Medicaid is a State/Federal Program that can be utilized to pay for continual, ongoing Skilled Nursing Home Care or Home & Community Based Waiver Services.
•  Medicare is recognized as the Federal Insurance Program designed for individuals age 65 or older or those who have met the provisional conditions of Social Security Disability. 
  • With respect to eligibility for Skilled Nursing Home care, Medicare generally covers 20 days, with a maximum coverage of 100 days, providing that other conditional requirements are met.