medigap Archives - The Segrust Group

Medicaid Liens and Estate Recoveries

September 28, 2014March 19, 2021Cliff Cadle

What are Medicaid liens and estate recoveries? Federal law encourages states to seek reimbursement from Medicaid recipients for Medicaid payments made on their behalf. There are two types of cost-recovery actions against the assets of Medicaid recipients: (1) real or personal property liens, and (2) recovery from decedent’s estate. A Medicaid lien is a form of attachment against your property that signifies that someone else has certain rights or interests in your property. A lien makes it impossible for you to sell or refinance your property without the state’s knowledge and opportunity to collect. While federal law allows a lien to be placed on your home at the time you become a permanent resident of a nursing home, not all states have adopted such provisions. Along with the use of lifetime liens, your state may be able to seek reimbursement from your estate after you die. For Medicaid purposes, the...

A Woman’s Guide to Health Care in Retirement

December 1, 2012March 19, 2021Cliff Cadle

At any age, health care is a priority. But when you retire, you should probably focus more on health care than ever before. This is especially true for women. Women live longer, develop certain chronic conditions (e.g., osteoporosis) at a higher rate than men, and are more apt to experience medical limitations that directly affect their daily activities.1 That’s why it’s particularly important for women to factor in the cost of health care, including long-term care, as part of their retirement plan. How much you’ll spend on health care during retirement generally depends on a number of variables including when you retire, how long you live, your relative health, and the cost of medical care in your area. Another important factor to consider is the availability of Medicare. Generally, you’ll be eligible for Medicare when you reach age 65. But what if you retire at a younger age? You’ll...

Healthcare in Retirement

September 28, 2012March 19, 2021Cliff Cadle

What health care benefits are available in retirement? Health care in retirement is available from many sources. Government programs (such as Medicaid and Medicare) offer numerous health care benefits. However, you may need to purchase supplemental health insurance or Medigap, as well. Most Americans are eligible to begin receiving Medicare benefits at age 65, but qualifying for Medicaid may require some planning on your part. In addition to these resources, you may also be entitled to military health care benefits if you are a veteran, retired servicemember, or the spouse or widow of a veteran or retired servicemember. Continuing care retirement communities and nursing homes also offer health care services for older individuals. Depending on your specific needs and circumstances, you may use any number of these resources during your retirement years. Medicare In general Medicare is a federal health insurance program created in 1965. Medicare primarily assists those who...