Governor Brown has signed new legislation, effective January 1, 2017, which changes the rules regarding recovery by the state for payments it has made to nursing homes for Medi-Cal recipients. Under the present law, the state can recover against the surviving spouse or domestic partner of a Medi-Cal recipient, from whatever was in the Medi-Cal recipient’s estate that was left to the surviving spouse or partner by distribution or survival, as from joint tenancy or community property, or property left under a will to the surviving spouse. After January 1, 2017, if the Medi-Cal recipient is survived by a spouse or registered domestic partner, a claim is forever barred against that person. If the surviving spouse however receives Medi-Cal benefits, then his or her estate can be subject to an estate claim after his or her death.
This information is not to be taken as legal advice, and you are encouraged to see your elder law attorney. At the Law Offices of Michael J. Young, at 1931 San Miguel Dr., Ste. 220, Walnut Creek, CA www.WalnutCreekElderLaw, 925-256-0298, lawyoung1@gmail.com, we practice Elder Law and we help Baby Boomers, Seniors and families through their Elder Care Journey. We help families with long-term care planning, asset-protection plans, comprehensive estate planning, wills, trusts and powers of attorney. We also help the older client and their families get their “Ducks in a Row” in order help them qualify for Medi-Cal and the VA Aid & Attendance Improved Pension benefit.