Can They Take Your House If You Go Into Assisted Living?
Homeownership is often a person’s most valuable asset, and one of the biggest worries when transitioning to assisted living. For families in Wichita, the good news is that moving into assisted living doesn’t automatically mean losing your home. What happens depends on how care is paid for, whether Medicaid becomes involved, and how your estate is structured.
Understanding the financial and legal rules ahead of time can protect your family’s property and peace of mind.
Owning a Home While in Assisted Living
When someone moves into assisted living, they can usually keep ownership of their house. The property remains in their name unless it’s sold or transferred. Some seniors choose to rent out their homes to help cover monthly assisted living expenses, while others keep them for eventual return or as part of an estate plan.
How Medicaid May Affect Your Home
Medicaid eligibility is based on income and assets. While your home often remains exempt while you’re living, it can become part of Medicaid’s review process once care payments begin. This typically applies to long-term nursing facility coverage, but rules vary by state and situation.
In Kansas, Medicaid may place a lien or claim reimbursement from the estate after death if the state covered long-term care expenses. Planning early with an attorney or elder law specialist can help avoid unexpected complications.
What Estate Recovery Means
Medicaid’s “estate recovery” allows the state to recoup costs paid for care from a person’s estate after they pass away. This doesn’t mean the government seizes your house while you’re alive, but it may file a claim against the estate later unless proper exemptions or trusts are in place.
Ways to Protect Property and Assets
- Consult with an elder law attorney to discuss trusts or asset transfers
- Keep property ownership and residency status clear in legal documents
- Plan ahead for Medicaid eligibility before applying
- Consider life estate deeds or irrevocable trusts to safeguard your home
- Keep records of any home improvements or expenses that affect asset value
Financial planning done early can help families in Wichita preserve home ownership even when care needs change.
Wichita Families: How Keepsake Kottage Can Help
Keepsake Kottage Home Plus focuses on compassionate assisted living services that allow families to plan confidently. Our small, home-like environment provides affordable care options without unnecessary financial surprises, helping seniors retain both independence and security.
Contact us: 8428 W 13th St N, Ste 130, Wichita, KS | (316) 650-4526
FAQs: Homes and Assisted Living
Will Medicaid take my house if I move to assisted living?
No, not immediately. However, Medicaid may seek repayment through estate recovery after death if it paid for care costs.
Can I keep my home and still qualify for Medicaid?
Yes. In many cases, your primary residence is exempt up to a certain equity limit, but each case is reviewed individually.
How can I protect my home before moving to assisted living?
Consult an elder law attorney to set up legal protections such as trusts or life estate deeds before applying for Medicaid.
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be taken as legal or financial advice. Medicaid and property laws vary by state and change over time. Always consult a qualified elder law attorney or financial advisor before making decisions about your home or estate.
