🧩 1. Timing Is Everything — Plan Early
MaineCare’s long-term care planning process involves a five-year “look-back” period. The state reviews all financial transfers made within the past 60 months before an application for benefits is filed.
- Gifts or transfers made during that period can cause penalties or delays in eligibility.
- The earlier you plan, the more legal strategies are available to protect your assets.
Pro Tip: Don’t wait until your spouse or loved one is already in a nursing home. Even modest early planning can save thousands in long-term care costs and help preserve your financial security.
💰 2. Not All Assets Are Counted
MaineCare distinguishes between “countable” and “exempt” assets when determining eligibility for long-term care coverage.
- Countable assets (such as savings, investments, and additional real estate) must often be spent down to qualify.
- Exempt assets — including your primary residence, one vehicle, household goods, and personal belongings — are not counted toward the eligibility limit.
Understanding this distinction is essential for protecting your home and essential property while still qualifying for MaineCare benefits.
💑 3. Spousal Protections Under MaineCare
MaineCare has specific rules for married couples designed to protect the financial well-being of the spouse who remains at home (the community spouse).
- The at-home spouse is typically allowed to keep a portion of the couple’s assets, known as the Community Spouse Resource Allowance (CSRA).
- The applicant spouse’s assets, however, are counted toward eligibility limits.
- The community spouse may also keep a certain level of monthly income, called the Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance (MMNA), to cover living expenses.
These protections are meant to prevent the well spouse from facing financial hardship when one partner requires long-term care. Strategic legal planning ensures that both spouses remain financially stable while securing needed care.
🛡️ 4. Utilize Smart Asset Protection Strategies
MaineCare long-term care planning often involves asset protection tools that help you qualify for benefits while safeguarding family wealth.
Common strategies include:
- Establishing irrevocable trusts to protect assets before the five-year look-back period.
- Converting countable assets (cash, CDs, investments) into exempt ones, such as home improvements or a new vehicle.
- Spousal transfers and Medicaid-compliant annuities to ensure the healthy spouse keeps sufficient resources.
When used properly, these strategies help preserve your home, savings, and legacy — while ensuring access to quality care. Always consult with a qualified elder-law attorney before taking any action.
💡 Bottom Line
MaineCare long-term care planning is about more than paying for care — it’s about protecting your family’s financial future and peace of mind.
At Aging in Maine, we help families navigate the complexities of MaineCare, protect assets, and plan ahead for quality long-term care.
📞 Call (207) 848-5600 or visit our Contact Page to schedule a consultation.
Early planning can make all the difference. Let’s help you plan well, live well, and age well.
