Medi-Cal Planning Attorney in California for Long-Term Care

Understanding Medi-Cal for Long-Term Care

Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program, and for many Woodland Hills families it’s the only realistic way to pay $8,000–$12,000 per month for nursing home care. It’s not just for the poor—middle-class couples in the West Valley, from Calabasas to Tarzana, rely on Medi-Cal once savings start draining fast. The Estate Planning & Elder Law Firm blends legal strategy with elder law planning so you can access care without unnecessary financial loss.

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Medi-Cal Eligibility Rules

To qualify, applicants must meet medical need and financial rules. California distinguishes between exempt assets (often a primary home with proper intention to return, one vehicle, personal items, certain prepaid burial plans) and countable assets (bank/investment accounts, extra property). Married couples have special protections so the healthy spouse at home is not impoverished. Income over small allowances typically goes to share-of-cost, but careful structuring can ease the burden. If you’re unsure where you stand, our elder law questions resource can clarify key terms.

Spend-Down and Asset Protection Strategies

You don’t have to “spend everything” to zero. With guidance, families often reposition assets:

  • Improve or maintain exempt assets (home repairs, a safer vehicle).
  • Use caregiver agreements to compensate family providing real services.
  • Consider a Medi-Cal asset protection trust—a carefully drafted irrevocable trust that moves assets out of countable status over time while preserving use and control within legal limits.
  • For married couples, apply spousal rules to keep resources with the well spouse at home.

Timing and the Look-Back Period

California imposes a 30-month look-back on certain transfers for long-term care eligibility. Gifts or trust funding inside that window can trigger a penalty period. Planning early—well before a crisis—offers more choices. Even in a crisis, we can often reduce penalties with lawful, documented strategies that the county will accept.

Keeping the Family Home

Your home may be exempt for eligibility if you intend to return or a spouse or disabled child lives there. After death, Medi-Cal can pursue estate recovery in probate. Proper planning can keep the home out of probate and reduce recovery risk. We align real-property choices with asset protection planning so your house on Victory Boulevard or near Warner Center supports care and family goals.

Application and Advocacy

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We prepare, file, and track your application; organize medical and financial documentation; and represent you in any fair hearings. Our Woodland Hills team coordinates with hospitals, skilled-nursing facilities, and the county so benefits begin as soon as legally possible.

Secure Care Without Impoverishment

The best time to plan is now—before a health event forces rushed decisions. The Estate Planning & Elder Law Firm is ready to help Los Angeles and Ventura County families qualify while preserving what matters most.