The five-year window before a Medicaid application during which any asset transfers are scrutinized.
Gave your daughter $20,000 four years ago? Medicaid may impose a penalty period during which they won't pay for your nursing home. The rules are state-specific, technical, and full of exceptions (caregiver child, exempt assets, spousal protections). This is the single most important reason to talk to an elder-law attorney at least five years before you think you need to.
Palmelle pairs you with a placement advisor who's done this thousands of times. Free for families.
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