In recent years a number of non-lawyers have started businesses offering Medicaid planning services to seniors. While using one of these services may be cheaper than hiring a lawyer, the overall costs may be far greater.
If you use a non-lawyer to do Medicaid planning, the person offering services may not have any legal knowledge or training. Bad advice can lead seniors to purchase products or take actions that won’t help them qualify for Medicaid and may actually make it more difficult. The consequences of taking bad advice can include the denial of benefits, a Medicaid penalty period, or tax liability.
As a result of problems that have arisen from non-lawyers offering Medicaid planning services, a few states (Florida, Ohio, New Jersey, and Tennessee) have issued regulations or guidelines providing that Medicaid planning by non-lawyers will be considered the unauthorized practice of law.
Applying for Medicaid is a highly technical and complex process. At Frankel Estate Planning & Elder Law, LLC we are knowledgeable about Medicaid law and can help you navigate the process. We may be able to help you and your family find significant financial savings or better care for you or your loved one.
To find out the best solution for you, please contact Frankel Estate Planning at (610) 897-8994.
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