How Does the VA Benefit Work with Medicaid?

Last week we discussed VA Aid and Attendance and how it helps families supplement high care costs. Unfortunately, there are times when the VA benefit alone is not enough. Nursing home costs average between $7,000-$10,000 per month! Many people must obtain Medicaid benefits to fully cover the costs of care. So how does the VA benefit work with Medicaid?

Veterans must apply for the VA benefit when seeking Medicaid benefits

A Medicaid applicant eligible for VA Compensation or a VA pension must submit a claim to the Veterans Administration. Medicaid policy requires applicants seek any income benefits available to them. If approved, applicants may face penalties if they opt to decline benefits they are entitled to receive.

All benefits are not treated equally when determining countable income for Medicaid.

VA income is treated differently depending on the type of benefit received. It can get complicated, and this is a good time to seek the advice of an experienced elder law attorney. VA income recipients should obtain a written breakdown of the funds received when they apply for Medicaid. This will help the Medicaid caseworker process application correctly and calculate the appropriate Patient Liability.

The VA benefit may change when Medicaid benefits begin.

It is necessary to notify the Veterans Administration when a recipient of the VA benefit moves to a new facility or has a change in medical expenses due to a Medicaid approval. Failure to properly notify the VA of a benefit recipient’s change in circumstance may result in a costly overpayment of benefits.

Hurley Elder Care Law can help you determine the appropriate actions when working with VA benefits and Medicaid. This will save you time, money, and many headaches. If you or your loved one is looking for ways to help pay for care, please call our office at 404-843-0121. Our attorneys will guide you how to best utilize these helpful benefits.