Understanding the complexities of Title 19 benefits, also known as Medicaid, will make it easier to navigate the often tricky discussions surrounding health care and funeral planning. By making pre-arrangements for a funeral, you may be able to lower your assets to qualify for Medicaid. Here’s everything that you need to know about Title 19 benefits.

Understanding Medicaid

Medicaid is a joint federal-state insurance program that’s designed to help people pay their medical bills. Some people may receive it for free, including parents whose monthly income totals less than $2,700 for at least two people, pregnant women whose income is under $3,500, and adults without children who make less than $1,830 monthly.

Spending Down

If you don’t qualify because you earn too much, you can obtain Medicaid if you’re disabled or over the age of 65 by spending down your assets. The state agency will provide you with the figure that you need to spend down, along with the period that you have to complete this task. You can apply select bills to the spending down process, such as those for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and medical necessities.

Funeral Arrangements

Another option is to make pre-arrangements for funeral services. You can pay for everything related in advance, including your casket or urn; headstone; and cremation or burial service. Using your available assets to cover funeral expenses is worthwhile, as those assets are then exempt and won’t impact your ability to receive benefits.

To take advantage of this, your contract with the funeral home has to be irrevocable, and the home itself must be a member of the Connecticut Funeral Directors Association® and licensed to practice in the state.

Serving families throughout New Haven County, CT, since 1931, the caring and compassionate staff members at Porto Funeral Homes are committed to helping you every step of the way. They will work closely with you as you make pre-arrangements for funeral services and walk you through the delicate process of making appropriate plans for your loved ones. Visit them online to learn more, or call them at (203) 467-3000 to reach their East Haven office or (203) 934-5000 to connect with their West Haven location.