The Listen to Lawrence Letter: 2026 Medicaid Numbers

Please note that the numbers used below are meant for Nassau or Suffolk County. There are different numbers, although similar, for other parts of New York, such as New York City and Upstate New York.

2026: CHANGE IN MEDICAID TRANSFER PENALTY NUMBERS:

While the 2026 LOOK-BACK remains at 60 months (five years), the penalty for transfers (gifts) made within the look-back period is now increased slightly to:

ONE MONTH OF INELIGIBILITY FOR EVERY $15,675 TRANSFERRED.

For example, if three years ago you transferred $156,750 and you entered a nursing home and applied for Medicaid today, you would not be eligible for Medicaid for $156,750 divided by $15,675 = 10 MONTHS

How did I arrive at this answer?:

1. What is the look-back? Answer: 5 years.
2. Was there a transfer within the look-back? Yes, 3 years ago in the amount of $156,750.
3. Divide $156,750 by $15,675 to arrive at 10
4. You will not be eligible for Medicaid for the first 10 months in the nursing home. That is your penalty.

I hope this helps.

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