First, mom won't pay for in home care, said it costs too much. I have access to her bank, but don't feel right accessing it without her knowing. Some days she is coherent and some, not so much. She dies not have any long term care and want to know how to get medicaid. She has savings (so do I) can I put that money in my account so she can qualify to help with home care?
I am glad you posted. I always wonder what is happening with you and your mom.
NO, do not put your moms savings in with yours. You can’t hide bank transactions from the government. . All you will do by combining your savings is muddy the waters on who owns the savings.
But please seek the advice of a qualified elder attorney who understands Medicaid rules and can look at the entire picture of your moms home and savings and tell you what to do. Mom should pay for this as it is for mom that you need the information. And mom should pay for her care. What is she saving her money for? If it is for her old age, tell her she has arrived.
I know that you know moms brain is broken and she has many health issues. You have your own health issues. You must take care of you. Having heart issues can be very serious. It is the number one reason we die. I don’t think you want the burden of your mom on your daughter. People die every day younger than you with their first ever heart attack. It could happen to you. I know you know this as you have lost four siblings. But sometimes when we have so much responsibility we think life wouldn’t dare. Wrong. 40-60% of caregivers die before their loved ones. Mom not wanting to spend her money to take care of herself and place the burden on you instead is not a good plan for YOU. You matter too.
Please respond to your posts. There are people who have tried to help you but you never answer a post. It is okay to come here and vent, not saying to stop posting but those who respond seem to find resolution a little sooner. We have all had the same or similar issues as you are experiencing. We understand. We are trying to pass our collective experience and wisdom on to others to help them through this difficult time. You will feel better once you know what the options are. There are options.
Thanks again
1) if your Mom has not assigned you as her PoA, she needs to do this before you start to manage her affairs.
2) Medicaid rules vary by state: this is why asking on this global forum may not be the best solution. Basically, one has to qualify both medically AND financially. Most (but not all ) states' Medicaid only pays for LTC. So if your Mom qualifies financially, she must also have a medical assessment by her doctor of needing LTC. Also, most (but not all) states' Medicaid application has a 5-year "look back" period... this means if you do things with her funds (like move them into your account) it may appear as "gifting", which may disqualify her. Best to consult with a Medicaid Planner for her state of residence.
3) If you are currently her PoA, then read the document to see what is required to activate your authority to manage her affairs in her best interests. A springing PoA usually requires one or two medical diagnoses of impairment. A durable PoA is active as soon as it is signed.
Read more about Medicaid:
https://www.agingcare.com/topics/104/medicaid