Moving grandfather to the nursing home was hard enough. But applying for Medicaid at the same time? Very stressful, but it is even worse if you submit incomplete or incorrect paperwork. This could delay much-needed Medicaid benefits. Read on to learn more about the supporting documents to submit with a Medicaid application.
The Application
Medicaid consists of more than one program. For example, there’s a program for children and a different one for nursing home residents.
Alabama Medicaid maintains online applications, as well as forms that might need to be attached. Paper applications are available at local Medicaid offices.
Sometimes documents must be attached to the application. For example, if the applicant needs an authorized representative to help with the application, Appendix C should be attached to paper applications.
Make sure you use the right application, filled out completely with all attachments.
The Supporting Documents
The first thing to understand is that Medicaid wants documents going back five years from the date of application (the Look Back Period). The applicant should submit bank statements or balances (monthly for the first 12 months of the Look Back Period, quarterly for months 13-24, and June and December for months 25 through 60). Medicaid will also want to see proof of gross income, including VA benefits, Social Security benefits, rental income, pensions and retirement funds, wages, and interest. In addition, some or all of the following documents from the Look Back Period will be required:
| Annuities | Life insurance policies | Power of attorney |
| Long-term care policies | Receipts and titles | Bonds |
| Wills | Trusts | Social security card |
| Promissory notes | Stocks | Burial contracts or policies |
| Conservatorship papers | Property deeds | Medicare care |
| Loan documents | Retirement account statements | Any other documents that are requested |
| Guardianship documents | Medicare Part D policies |
The applicant should keep copies of all supporting documents, as well as the application and any correspondence sent or received.
Sound Complicated? It is, but We Can Help.
The attorneys at Miller Estate and Elder Law assist clients with applying for Medicaid benefits. We also help with Medicaid planning and estate planning. For a free consultation with an experienced Alabama attorney, contact us at 256-251-2137 or use our convenient Contact Form.
We also offer free guides, videos, and workshops.
We have offices in Anniston and Birmingham and serve clients in Gadsden, Hoover, Talladega, Vestavia Hills, and surrounding areas.