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Medicaid Planning

Time is of the essence when it comes to Medicaid Planning. 

Qualifying for Medicaid long-term care benefits in Florida can be confusing and stressful. Many families believe they must exhaust their savings before receiving help. That is not always the case.

 

At Linde Legal, we help clients in Coral Gables and throughout South Florida develop lawful strategies to qualify for Medicaid while protecting as many assets as possible.

Medicaid Planning

Understanding Florida Medicaid for Long-Term Care

Medicaid is a government benefit program that can help cover the cost of:

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  • Nursing home care

  • Assisted living (in certain circumstances)

  • In-home care services

 

However, eligibility rules are strict and include income limits, asset limits, and a five-year look-back period.

The Five-Year Look-Back Rule

Florida Medicaid reviews financial transactions made within the five years prior to application. Improper transfers can result in:

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  • Penalty periods

  • Delayed eligibility

  • Out-of-pocket expenses

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Proper planning in advance can prevent these issues.

Asset Protection Strategies

Every case is unique, but strategies may include:​​

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  • Medicaid-compliant trusts

  • Asset repositioning

  • Spousal protection planning

  • Homestead preservation

  • Personal service contracts

 

Planning must be tailored carefully to comply with Florida law.

Crisis Medicaid Planning

Already facing a nursing home admission? You may still have options. Crisis planning focuses on:​

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  • Immediate eligibility

  • Reducing penalty exposure

  • Protecting a spouse’s income and assets

  • Navigating application requirements quickly

 

Time is critical in these situations.

Protecting the Healthy Spouse

Florida law includes protections for the community spouse. Proper planning can help:

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  • Preserve income

  • Protect savings

  • Avoid financial hardship

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We ensure both spouses are considered in the strategy.

Common Medicaid Mistakes to Avoid

  • Gifting assets without legal advice

  • Adding children to property titles

  • Waiting too long to seek help

  • Relying on informal advice

 

Medicaid planning requires precision.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

During your consultation, we will:

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  • Review assets and income

  • Evaluate care needs

  • Identify eligibility risks

  • Outline a clear legal strategy

 

You leave with clarity and direction.

Frequently Asked Questions about Medicaid Planning

How much can I have and still qualify for Medicaid in Florida?

Can I give my assets to my children to qualify?

Asset and income limits change periodically. Eligibility depends on marital status and financial structure.

Improper gifting can trigger penalties. Professional guidance is critical before transferring assets

Does Medicaid take your house?

Florida homestead protections are strong, but estate recovery rules may apply in certain cases.

Is it too late to plan if my parent is already in a nursing home?

Not necessarily. Crisis planning strategies may still be available.

Get Help with Florida Medicaid Planning

Secure the Medicaid benefits you need while protecting your assets and income. Don’t wait until your savings are gone. Contact Linde Legal today to schedule a consultation and explore your options.

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