Free Nursing Home Medicaid Readiness Checklist
Most Medicaid applications stall because of missing paperwork, not eligibility. This free checklist from LifeCare Senior Advocates shows you what to gather before you apply.
- Every document the state will likely ask for, in seven sections
- The five years of records most states review, and why
- Gifts and transfers that can delay coverage
- Seven situations where you should talk to someone before you file
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What the Checklist Covers
The checklist is two printable pages. Check off each item as you find it, and bring it to your first conversation with Dave.
1. Identity and family records
Social Security and Medicare cards, birth and marriage records, and military discharge papers.
2. Legal authority
Powers of attorney, guardianship papers, wills, and trust documents.
3. Income
Social Security, pension, VA, annuity, and retirement account income.
4. Bank and investment accounts
Statements from the look-back period, including joint and spouse accounts.
5. Property and insurance
Deeds, vehicle titles, life insurance, annuities, and prepaid funeral contracts.
6. Gifts and transfers
Money or property given away, sold below value, or moved in the last five years.
7. Medical and care records
Diagnosis, medications, discharge papers, and the nursing home admission agreement.
Call Before You File If Any of These Apply
Some situations change the order of steps. If one of these fits your family, a short conversation first can prevent a denial or a penalty later.
- A spouse still lives at home
- The home is still in your loved one's name
- Money or property was given away or moved in the last five years
- There is no power of attorney and your loved one can no longer sign
- A hospital or rehab discharge is days away
- Your loved one is a veteran or a veteran's surviving spouse
Why Trust LifeCare Senior Advocates
Dave Brandt
Senior advocate and founder, LifeCare Senior Advocates
Dave Brandt brings more than 25 years in long-term care and works with families in all 50 states. He helps families prepare a Medicaid application in the right order and work with the right professionals. Learn more about Medicaid planning for long-term care.
This checklist is general information, not legal advice. Medicaid rules change and differ by state. Dave Brandt is a licensed insurance agent. LifeCare Senior Advocates is not a law firm and does not provide legal or investment advice.
Facing a Decision This Week?
If a nursing home admission is already underway, you do not have to sort out the paperwork alone. Your first conversation with Dave is always at no charge.
Dave Brandt is a licensed insurance agent. LifeCare Senior Advocates is not a law firm and does not provide legal or investment advice.