Medicaid, the largest payment source for nursing home care in the United States, is a government health insurance program for low-income, low asset individuals. In New Jersey, a single individual generally cannot become financially eligible for Medicaid during any month in which her assets exceed the sum of $2,000 by even one cent on the first date of that month.  The $2,000 limited for Medicaid eligibility is referred to as the resource eligibility limit.

Certain assets are disregard in determining whether an individual is in excess of the Medicaid eligibility resource limit. The income producing property exemption may protect certain business property, including the land and buildings from which the small business is operated (and the machines, tools, trucks and equipment and even cash held in bank and investment accounts) where that business property is income producing property essential to self-support.  See 42 U.S.C. § 1382b(a)(3).

Suppose Kylie is age 65, has had a stroke, and now needs Medicaid to pay for her long-term care.  If Kylie owned and operated a profitable business selling her own line of cosmetics for several years before her entry into skilled care, the business, its inventory and the business’s operating accounts may be excluded from consideration in determining whether Kylie is eligible for Medicaid.

If you’re faced with a similar situation, it is important to seek counsel from a seasoned elder law attorney to ensure that you find the best care, and that you will qualify for Medicaid in order to pay for that care with public benefits. This can help you and your family protect the family home and your life savings, as well as ensure the best care is given to you or a loved on.