Medi-Cal Planning in California: How to Protect Your Home and Stay Eligible for Care

Episode Summary In this episode of Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew breaks down the complex world of Medi-Cal planning for California families. He explains how seniors can protect their homes and assets while still qualifying for long-term care benefits. Brian clears up common misconceptions, discusses the 30-month look-back period, and shares practical strategies for avoiding costly mistakes.

What You Will Learn in This Episode

• What Medi-Cal is and how it helps cover long-term care costs
• The difference between nursing homes, assisted living, and board-and-care facilities
• Asset and income rules for Medi-Cal eligibility
• How the 30-month look-back period works in California
• Common mistakes families make when transferring property or assets
• How revocable and irrevocable trusts impact Medi-Cal and estate recovery
• Why planning ahead is key to protecting your home and preserving family wealth

Key Timestamps

00:02:00 – What Medi-Cal covers and how it differs from Medicare 00:05:00 – Assets you can keep and the $2,000 financial limit explained 00:07:30 – Understanding California’s 30-month look-back period 00:10:00 – The role of trusts in Medi-Cal planning and estate recovery 00:13:00 – When and how to start planning for long-term care costs 00:15:00 – Analyzing assets and choosing the right strategy for your family

About the Show

Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder is a podcast dedicated to simplifying estate planning for families in California. Featuring attorney Brian Chew, managing partner at OC Wills and Trusts, the show provides expert insights into trusts, wills, and asset protection strategies. Through clear explanations and practical advice, the podcast empowers listeners to secure their family’s financial future and build lasting legacies.