St. Petersburg Medicaid Planning Attorney

For many seniors, the prospect of admission to a nursing home is an uncomfortable thought. Nonetheless, Medicaid is the primary way of paying for long-term care needs. The cost of even one year in a nursing home has exploded over the past 20 years, and few people could afford a stint in the nursing home without the assistance of Medicaid. Call Fisher & Wilsey, P.A. to talk with a St. Petersburg Medicaid planning attorney. We can discuss how to plan financially for life’s challenges, including medical needs as we age.

Eligibility for Medicaid in Florida

Medicaid covers a broad range of health services, including hospital visits, rehabilitation, and nursing home stays. A key concern for people is qualifying for Medicaid. This is a means tested program in Florida.

In addition to being a Florida resident and citizen or legal resident, you must meet the following:

• Income test. Florida sets a cap on an applicant’s monthly income.
• Asset test. As of 2025, an applicant cannot have more than $2,000 in combined assets. Some assets are exempted from the calculation.
• Needs test. An applicant will be assessed on whether they need help with activities of daily living (ADL). In Florida, Medicaid only pays for those who have at least three ADLs.

Often, clients are ruled ineligible because they do not meet the income or asset test. They might have too much in a bank account, or a retirement account is supplementing their Social Security income.  These are important reasons to call an experienced Medicaid planning attorney to discuss options.

Medicaid Planning

Estate planning is one way of qualifying for Medicaid. Many people know they can transfer assets to their children, which can bring them under the asset threshold. However, any transfers to family members must happen more than five years before you apply, otherwise you can face a penalty. The sooner you contact our office, the more help we can provide.

What can you do if you must apply for Medicaid now? Our office provides many services:

• We can help you gather the required information and fill out paperwork to apply for Medicaid assistance. It is critical to complete applications in detail and accurately.
• Miller trust. This trust is a legal instrument for holding excess income so that you can qualify for Medicaid. It is also called a Qualified Income Trust. Our firm can create one to help push an applicant under the income threshold.

Undue hardship exception. Although rare, it is possible for those who trigger the penalty period to request a hardship exception, and we will review if this is an option.

Each person’s situation is unique, so scheduling a consultation is the best way to understand how to plan for Medicaid.

Speak with Our Office in a Confidential Meeting

Fisher & Wilsey, P.A. has been helping clients for decades navigate the challenges of growing older. Medicaid planning is one of the most important tasks you can complete as part of a comprehensive estate plan. By starting now, you increase the odds of receiving Medicaid and preventing your family from suffering a crushing financial burden. Contact us to speak with a St. Petersburg Medicaid planning attorney.