As the cost of long-term care continues to rise, many families are caught off guard by the financial strain that comes with nursing home care. In Georgia and across the U.S., the average cost of care in a nursing home can exceed $7,000 per month. Without proper planning, families may be forced to deplete—or spend down—a lifetime of savings just to qualify for Medicaid.
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At Nelson Elder Care Law, we specialize in helping families protect their assets from the Medicaid spend-down period while ensuring their loved ones receive the care they need.
Whether you’re just starting to plan or facing an urgent situation, understanding your options can save you thousands and offer invaluable peace of mind.
Why Nursing Homes Don’t Like Elder Law Attorneys
What Does “Spend-Down” Mean?
The spend-down process refers to the period in which families liquidate most of their assets so that they can become eligible for Medicaid to cover nursing home costs. Medicaid has strict asset limits—often $2,000 for individuals—meaning you could be required to “spend down” your hard-earned savings on long-term care before qualifying.
This is where proactive planning makes all the difference. With the right legal tools, you can legally protect your assets while still achieving Medicaid approval when the time comes.
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How a Trust Can Help You Avoid Spend-Down
One tool in asset protection is a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT). By placing certain assets into a trust at least five years before applying for Medicaid, you remove them from your countable resources, effectively shielding them from spend-down.
While a traditional Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT) is one way to shield assets from spend-down, it requires you to give up flexibility and control of your assets to achieve protection. For families who want to avoid that tradeoff, Nelson Elder Care Law offers an exclusive alternative: the Absolute Protection Trust™ (APT™).
The APT™ provides the same level of asset protection as a MAPT—helping you qualify for Medicaid without losing your savings to the cost of care—but with a key advantage: you retain more control over your assets, similar to what you’d expect from a Revocable Living Trust. This unique combination allows you to preserve your legacy, maintain independence, and still protect your estate from being depleted by long-term care expenses.
If you’re looking for a more flexible approach to Medicaid planning, the Absolute Protection Trust™ may be the right fit for you—and it’s only available at Nelson Elder Care Law.
Why Work With an Elder Law Attorney
Protecting your assets from the high cost of care takes more than just legal documents—it takes a dedicated team with the right tools, the right approach, and a deep understanding of your needs. At Nelson Elder Care Law, we believe estate planning isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone. Our customized plans give you power and protection while you’re living, even in the face of unexpected health issues or long-term care needs.
We also do things differently when it comes to pricing. No hourly rates. No surprise fees. Every service we offer is covered under a clear, flat-rate fee, so your family knows exactly what to expect—both financially and legally.
Our streamlined systems make it easy to move forward with confidence, whether you’re setting up a trust, applying for Medicaid, or navigating probate. We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on what matters most: protecting your family, your assets, and your future.
Take Action Now—Before It’s Too Late
The earlier you plan, the more options you have. Don’t wait until a health crisis forces you to spend your life savings on care. Schedule a consultation today and let our experienced team help you create a plan that protects your assets and provides for your loved ones.
