Expert Help With Iowa Medicaid Application and Planning

Applying For Medicaid Doesn’t Have To Be Stressful

Medicaid is a vital program that provides healthcare coverage to millions of Americans, including seniors and individuals with disabilities.  However, understanding the complex rules and regulations surrounding Medicaid eligibility and how to apply them to your circumstances can be challenging.  IowaMedicaidHelp attorneys have assisted hundreds of Iowans in successfully applying for Medicaid benefits while protecting their hard-earned assets from being depleted to meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Understanding Medicaid Coverage and Eligibility

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program offering several health services to eligible individuals. In Iowa, Medicaid covers essential benefits such as:
  • Doctor visits and hospital stays
  • Prescription drugs
  • Preventive care, including screenings and vaccinations
  • Mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Long-term care services, both in-home and in nursing facilities
To qualify for Medicaid, applicants must meet specific income and asset requirements. As of 2023, a single Iowa resident must have a monthly income below $2,742 and countable assets less than $2,000 to be eligible.  The asset limit is higher for married couples, and certain assets, such as the primary residence and one vehicle, are typically exempt. It's important to note that simply giving away assets or transferring them to family members to meet these limits can result in penalties and delayed eligibility.  This situation is where Medicaid planning comes into play.

Why Medicaid Planning is Important

Medicaid planning involves strategically structuring your income and assets to qualify for the program while keeping as much of your wealth as possible for your family.  According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, someone turning 65 today has an almost 70% chance of needing long-term care services in their remaining years.  With the average cost of a semi-private room in an Iowa nursing home exceeding $6,500 per month, it's easy to see how these expenses can quickly deplete a lifetime of savings. IowaMedicaidHelp can help you manage this complex process. We stay up-to-date on the ever-changing regulations to ensure your Medicaid planning strategies are compliant and effective.

Why Hire a Medicaid Lawyer?

There are several compelling reasons to work with the skilled Medicaid professionals at IowaMedicaidHelp.
  • Asset Protection and Long-Term Care Planning: We can create a comprehensive plan to safeguard your cash and property while ensuring you receive the care you need during retirement. This planning may involve establishing trusts, restructuring property ownership, or converting countable assets into exempt resources. 
  • Medicaid Planning for Disabled Children: If you have a child with special needs, IowaMedicaidHelp can set up a Special Needs Trust for you. This asset pool allows your child to maintain eligibility for Medicaid and other government benefits while receiving financial support from family members.
  • Representation in Fair Hearings: If Medicaid denies your application or terminates your benefits, you have the right to a fair hearing. Our lawyers can represent you in these proceedings, present evidence on your behalf, and advocate for your rights.
  • Protecting Government Benefits: Receiving an inheritance or settlement can jeopardize your eligibility for Medicaid and other means-tested programs. IowaMedicaidHelp can help you structure these windfalls in a way that preserves your benefits.
  • Appealing Denied Claims: If Medicaid denies coverage for a specific service or treatment, we can appeal the decision for you and work to ensure you receive the care you need.   

Our Streamlined 5-Step Medicaid Application Process 

IowaMedicaidHelp has developed a simple, five-step process to make your Medicaid application journey as smooth and stress-free as possible:
  1. Free Consultation: It all starts with a complimentary meeting with one of our friendly Medicaid attorneys. We'll discuss your unique situation, assess your eligibility, and answer any questions you may have.
  2. Information Gathering: Our team will work with you to collect all the financial documents and supporting materials required for your Medicaid application. We'll provide a handy checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked.
  3. Application Preparation: Once we have all the information we need, IowaMedicaidHelp will carefully prepare and submit your Medicaid application on your behalf. We'll also double-check every detail to maximize your chances of approval.
  4. Approval Advocacy: Our job doesn't end when your application is submitted. IowaMedicaidHelp communicates directly with Iowa Medicaid on your behalf, advocating for your application's approval and promptly addressing any issues that may arise.
  5. Ongoing Guidance: Even after you secure your Medicaid benefits, we'll continue to provide support and advice to ensure you're making the most of your coverage. IowaMedicaidHelp stays with you every step of the way.
With our streamlined process and dedicated advocacy, you can focus on what matters most - your health and your family - while we handle the complexities of Medicaid planning.

Don't Wait - Book Your Free Consultation Now 

Medicaid planning is not something to put off, as delays can limit your options and put your assets at risk. Let IowaMedicaidHelp guide you through Iowa's Medicaid maze and secure the long-term care coverage you need.

Answers to Your Top Medicaid Application Questions

How long does it typically take to get approved for Medicaid in Iowa?

The processing time for a Medicaid application can vary, but it usually takes 45-90 days. Working with an experienced Medicaid lawyer can help expedite the process and improve your chances of approval.

What are the income and asset limits for Medicaid eligibility in Iowa?

Can I keep my house if I go on Medicaid?

What happens if the government denies my Iowa Medicaid application?

Is it necessary to hire a lawyer to apply for Medicaid in Iowa?

Real Clients, Real Medicaid Planning Solutions

"When my mom needed nursing home care, I felt overwhelmed and worried she'd lose everything. IowaMedicaidHelp made the process so much easier. I couldn't have done it without their expert guidance."

- Lisa M., West Des Moines

"I was concerned I'd have to spend down all my savings to qualify for Medicaid. IowaMedicaidHelp protected my assets and got me approved quickly. Now I can relax."

- Robert A., Bettendorf

Get Our Free Medicaid App Checklist 

Preparing for your Medicaid application can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. 

Download our free Iowa Medicaid Application Checklist to have everything you need before applying. This handy PDF guide lists the documents and information required step by step. 

Download Your Free Medicaid Application Checklist Today

IowaMedicaidHelp News and Blog Updates

Looking for more information on Medicaid planning, elder law, and estate planning?  Check out the IowaMedicaidHelp blog, where we share helpful articles, updates on Iowa Medicaid regulations, and practical tips for protecting your assets and securing your future.

Start Fall Medicaid Care Planning This October for Smart Long-Term Care

What specific challenges can our team help you resolve?

IowaMedicaidHelp Services

Medicaid Planning and Application Assistance
Medicaid Planning and Application Assistance

Meticulously prepare and submit ideal Medicaid applications, ensuring you meet all requirements to avoid denials or delays.

Miller Trusts
Miller Trusts

Establish qualified income trusts that allow you to set aside excess income and qualify for Medicaid while preserving financial stability.

Asset Protection Planning
Asset Protection Planning

Craft personalized strategies to shield your most precious assets, like your home and savings, from Medicaid spend-down requirements.