Use a properly drafted irrevocable Medicaid asset protection trust well before applying
Transfer nonexempt assets early enough to satisfy Medicaid look-back rules
Keep your home in a protected form where allowed by state law
Add a co-owner or beneficiary only after getting legal advice about transfer penalties and creditor risks
Spend down assets on exempt items and permitted expenses
Use a life estate deed or other state-approved home-protection strategy where appropriate
Convert countable assets into exempt assets before applying
Maintain a surviving spouse, minor child, or disabled child exemption when applicable
Name a disabled child as beneficiary of a special needs trust when appropriate
Keep assets below the state’s recovery threshold where state rules allow
Use a Medicaid-compliant annuity when appropriate and legally permitted
Pay off debts, taxes, and legitimate expenses before death when appropriate
Review beneficiary designations on nonprobate assets
Hold assets in forms that pass outside probate when state law protects them from recovery
Use joint ownership only with full legal review
Consider a pooled trust or special needs trust for eligible beneficiaries
Consult a Medicaid planning attorney in your state before making transfers
Update estate planning documents to match Medicaid planning goals
Avoid gifting assets without understanding penalty periods
Keep detailed records of all transfers, expenditures, and asset values
Reevaluate planning whenever state Medicaid rules change