Earlier this year I wrote about problems that are cropping up for Medicaid applicants who purchased irrevocable funeral trusts. The problem is that certain County Boards of Social Services were/are counting some of the dollars in the irrevocable funeral trust as if they are available resources (assets). The theory was that the items are ‘for the living,” and not “for the funeral of the deceased.” The result is that a Medicaid applicant thinks he is eligible for MLTSS to pay for his nursing home care, but his application is rejected for “excess resources.” This can cause catastrophic consequences, considering as the cost of a nursing home in New Jersey is at least $12,000 a month and the decision is received months after the expected date of eligibility, leaving the individual (and his spouse) exposed to enormous bills. Such a decision by a county welfare board creates a legal problem that requires adept legal representation to address.
Recently, one county advised us that the following items are “disallowed:”
- Acknowledgement cards- $10
- Crucifix- $25
- Flower Car- $350
- Gratuity- $30
- Limo- $425
- Register Book- $25
- Specially: Prayer Cards- $50
When you are setting up an irrevocable prepaid funeral trust, discuss these details with the funeral director and try to obtain current guidance from the funeral director or an elder law attorney regarding what will or won’t cause a “Medicaid eligibility problem.” The State issued a policy memorandum, but it does NOT inform the public of what the consequence is of making a mistake of this sort. This is an example of the numerous legal traps that are embedded within the MLTSS program and aren’t always obvious on the surface to people who are filing applications. Although appeals are possible (Medicaid Fair Hearings), it would be preferable if people could know in advance exactly what the rules are so they can plan accordingly.
Call for advice on NJ Medicaid eligibility, applications & appeals …..732-382-6070