Medicaid Planning
Your Guide to Medicaid Planning in Iowa
— Without Losing Everything
Long-term care in Iowa can cost over $10,000 per month—and Medicaid might be your only option. But qualifying is complicated, and one mistake can put your assets or home at risk.
At Smith Law Firm, we help Iowa families navigate Medicaid with confidence. Whether you’re planning for in-home care through the Elderly Waiver program or facing immediate nursing home costs, we guide you through every step—while protecting what matters most.
We'll help you:
- Understand Medicaid eligibility
- Strategically spend down assets
- Avoid costly penalties
- Protect your home from estate recovery
- Communicate with DHS on your behalf
You don't have to do this alone.
Give us a call at 515-212-4000 for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Elderly Waiver and Facility Medicaid?
Elderly Waiver Medicaid helps cover in-home services to keep you or a loved one out of a nursing facility. Facility Medicaid covers care once someone moves into a long-term care facility. Both programs have different income, resource, and medical eligibility rules—and we help navigate them all.
Will I lose my home if I go on Medicaid?
Not necessarily. While Iowa has aggressive estate recovery rules, there are legal strategies to protect your home now and for your heirs. We’ll walk you through your options based on your specific situation.
Can I still give money to my kids and qualify for Medicaid?
Gifting rules are complex and can cause penalties if not done correctly. We use proven, legal strategies like caregiver agreements, purchase of exempt assets, or “half-a-loaf” planning when appropriate.
How much does it cost to hire your firm for Medicaid planning?
We offer flat-fee pricing for Medicaid applications and planning. During your free consultation, we’ll give you a clear breakdown of what to expect, including any available discounts for prompt cooperation.
What happens if I already applied and got denied?
We often assist clients with appeals or fixing denied applications. If you’re unsure about your next step, reach out—we may be able to help correct issues and get you back on track.