my husband might have to go into a nursing home. I am a little concerned about my well being. They will take his social security and his income for life every month and that will leave with me an income of $800 monthly. What are the best options for me? Do I go to public assistance for help?
2 Answers from Attorneys
YOu need to speak with an elder law attorney. If your husband is a VET - you can place him in a veterans home and they will only use the VA benefit. You will keep the SS and other income to run the household.
If your husband needs to go into a nursing home, and you do not have the resources to pay it, then when you apply for Medicaid, you can request a spousal allotment, so a portion of your husband's income can be redirected to you. Right now, the spousal allotment is $1967 per month. They will deduct the gross amount of your income (your income before they take any insurance premiums, medicare, taxes, prescription drug plan premiums out). So if your income is $800, and you pay 104.90 for Medicare, then you would be entitled to up to $1062.10 from his income ($1967-904.90) each month. In addition, you may keep the home and car and at least $25,000.00 of your savings, or 1/2 of your savings if it is above $50,000.00.
If your husband is a veteran, then he would also have other options, he should apply for Aid and Attendance, or may apply for entrance into a Veterans home as another attorney mentioned as well. The cost is very little compared to a nursing home.
I agree you should find out your next steps from an elder law attorney.
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