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2026 Medi-Cal Long-Term Care: Decide While You Still Can Before Someone Does

By Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA 

Trust, Probate, and Elder Law Attorney 

Published July 6, 2026

California's Medi-Cal asset limit reinstatement is now several months in, and the lookback rules are still phasing in gradually. This update refreshes the paperwork and filing guidance we've shared with Bay Area families earlier this year, with the most current information on what county Medi-Cal workers are actually reviewing as of mid-2026. It's designed for Bay Area households with a range of living arrangements, so you can move your long-term care application forward with confidence.

Preparing Vital Paperwork

Start by gathering the documents county Medi-Cal workers commonly ask for in long-term care applications:

• Financial history. Gather account statements going back at least to February 1, 2026 — when California's asset transfer lookback period took effect again. The lookback is phasing in one month at a time and won't reach the full 30 months until July 2028, so as of mid-2026 county workers are only reviewing transfers made since February 2026. Transfers and gifts made in 2024 or 2025 are not subject to this lookback. If you've made any significant transfers since February 2026, have your attorney review them before you apply.

• Income proof. Gather pay stubs, pension and annuity statements, Social Security or SSI letters, and your recent federal and state tax returns.

• Asset proofs. Organize property deeds, property tax bills, car registrations, account statements, and documents for life insurance or business interests.

• Identity and residency. Have Social Security cards, driver's licenses or photo IDs, birth certificates when available, and proof that you live in California, such as utility bills or leases.

• Medical information. For long-term care, assemble medical records and doctor's notes that show why you need nursing home or in-home services. These medical papers work together with the $130,000 individual and $195,000 couple countable asset limits under 2026 non-MAGI Medi-Cal rules.

Regional Filing Options in the Bay Area

Most Bay Area counties use the same main ways to apply for Medi-Cal long-term care:

• Online. Use BenefitsCal, the statewide benefits website, to apply, upload documents, and track your case.

• By phone or in person. Call or visit your county human services or social services office; each Bay Area county lists Medi-Cal phone numbers, office locations, and office hours on its official website.

• By mail or fax. In many counties, you can download paper forms, then mail or fax them to your local office if that works better for you.

Examples:

• San Francisco. Applications are handled through the San Francisco Human Services Agency (SFHSA). You can start online through BenefitsCal and find current contact options, office locations, and phone numbers at sfhsa.org.

• Other Bay Area counties. Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, and other nearby counties publish Medi-Cal application and contact details on their official social services or human services websites, with BenefitsCal as the main online gateway.

Many applications are processed in about 30–45 days. If your case involves a disability determination or more complex review, it can take up to about 90 days.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Use these steps to keep your long-term care application organized:

1. Gather papers ahead of time. Keep your financial statements from February 2026 forward, along with your asset documents, identification, and proof of California residency, together in one file or folder that is easy to bring to appointments.

2. Fill out the Medi-Cal application. Complete the form carefully, listing all household members, income sources, and assets. Attach copies of your IDs, income proof, asset statements, and medical records that support your need for long-term care.

3. Submit the application your preferred way. Apply through BenefitsCal for a convenient online process, or submit your packet by mail, fax, or in person at your county office if that suits you better.

4. Respond quickly to follow-up requests. If the county sends a notice asking for more documents or explanations — for example, about transfers made since February 2026 — answer by the stated deadline to reduce the risk of delays or denials.

5. Review your Notice of Action. Once the county decides — often in 30–45 days, or up to 90 days in disability cases — you will get a Notice of Action approving, denying, or changing your request. If you disagree, you can ask for a fair hearing and talk to an elder law attorney about appeal options.

Strengthening Your Application for Bay Area Households

Bay Area families often have complex living arrangements and mixed income sources. A few extra steps can help:

• Document your household. For households with non-traditional setups, include statements from caregivers or partners along with joint bills, leases, or other proof of shared living arrangements. This helps show how your household actually works and can prevent questions later.

• Clarify self-employment income. If you are self-employed, add 2–3 years of tax returns and key business records. Because Medi-Cal may treat changing income differently, discuss your situation with an elder law attorney or accountant before you apply.

Common Delays and How to Avoid Them

Watch out for these frequent issues:

• Missing financial history. Gaps in your statements from February 2026 forward can raise questions. Request any missing statements before you file your application.

• Unexplained transfers. Be ready to explain large withdrawals or transfers, especially gifts, made since February 2026. When possible, include documents showing that sales or transfers were for fair market value.

• Incomplete ID or residency proof. Make sure your packet includes government IDs, Social Security numbers, and current California residency proof for everyone in your household who is applying.

• Unclear medical need. Ask your doctors to make sure your medical records clearly describe the level of care you need (for example, skilled nursing facility or home-based waiver services). Vague or incomplete medical paperwork can slow approval.

Why DIY Filing Is Riskier Than It Looks

Filling out the Medi-Cal application yourself, or using a generic online trust kit to "protect assets first," looks like the cheaper option. The real cost shows up later — at the exact moment your application is reviewed, when there's no time left to fix a mistake.

Common ways a self-filed application or DIY asset protection plan breaks down:

• Trusts that are never funded. A trust document means nothing if the property deeds, accounts, and other assets were never actually retitled into it. The assets stay countable, the trust does nothing for eligibility, and the estate may still end up in probate.

• Outdated templates. A generic kit downloaded a year or two ago has no way of reflecting a rule that just changed — like the phased-in lookback we walked through above. Treating a 2024 transfer the same as a 2026 transfer, or assuming the old asset-free rules still apply, can trigger a penalty period exactly when coverage is supposed to start.

• Misapplied exemptions. Exempt assets like a primary residence or one vehicle get mishandled, either overstating what's protected or needlessly putting assets at risk that didn't need to be touched.

• Incomplete or inconsistent paperwork. Self-prepared packets are the most common source of the delays in the section above — missing statements, unclear medical documentation, or unexplained transfers with no supporting evidence.

An elder law attorney changes the outcome in a few concrete ways:

• Tests your plan against current law, not a static template — confirming what the lookback period actually covers right now, not what it covered last year.

• Makes sure trusts and other planning tools are actually funded and properly coordinated with your Medi-Cal application, not just signed and filed away.

• Reviews transfers made since February 2026 before you apply, so you know whether a penalty period is a real risk before the county tells you.

• Responds to county follow-up requests correctly and on time, which is where many self-filed applications stall out.

The net effect: a self-filed application is untested until the county reviews it. An attorney-reviewed application is checked against current rules before you submit it, when there's still time to fix a problem.

Medi-Cal Long-Term Care Enrollment: Frequently Asked Questions

What papers do I need for Medi-Cal long-term care? Key items include bank and investment statements, proof of income, asset documents, identification papers, and medical records that explain your care needs.

How far back does Medi-Cal look at my finances? As of mid-2026, county workers are reviewing transfers made since February 2026, when the lookback period took effect again. That window grows by one month each month and won't reach the full 30 months until July 2028. Transfers made in 2024 or 2025 are not subject to the lookback.

How long does a Medi-Cal application take in California? Many applications take about 30–45 days. Cases that involve disability reviews or more complex issues can take up to roughly 90 days.

Where do I apply for Medi-Cal in the Bay Area? You can apply online through BenefitsCal, by phone, by mail, or in person at your county human services or social services office. In San Francisco, you can find current application options and contact information on the SFHSA website and through SF Health Plan resources.

Wrapping Up

This guide builds on the asset-limit and asset-review information we've shared with Bay Area families earlier this year, refreshed with the most current details on the phased-in lookback period. Elder law attorneys and experienced advocates can help you put together a strong document set, respond to county questions, and pursue appeals if needed.

Protect Your Long-Term Care Options

By preparing a complete application packet and understanding where the 2026 Medi-Cal rules currently stand, you can apply with more confidence and protect your future long-term care options in the Bay Area.

Contact Greene Law Firm, P.C. today. Call 415-905-0215 or email info@greenelawfirm.com for a free initial assessment of your Medi-Cal long-term care planning options.

Statements in Compliance With California Rules of Professional Conduct The materials in this article are for educational purposes only and are not legal advice. Consult an estate planning or elder law attorney for personalized guidance.

Attorney Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA, founded Greene Law Firm, P.C. He is licensed to practice law in California, Alabama, and Florida and has over 15 years of experience with wills, trusts, probate, elder law, and asset protection. For more information, visit: https://assetprotectionbayarea.com

California Living Trust & Estate Plan: What To Do When Everything Feels Uncertain

War, immigration shifts, volatile markets — how Bay Area residents protect what they’ve built, no matter what comes next.

By Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA 

Trust, Probate, and Elder Law Attorney 

Greene Law Firm, P.C.

Published: June 8, 2026

1  INTRODUCTION & OVERVIEW

If you don’t have a plan, California already has one for you

Geopolitical conflict is rattling global markets. Immigration policy is shifting faster than most families can track. Stock portfolios that looked solid last quarter are swinging week to week. For San Francisco Bay Area residents — professionals with equity, real estate investors, retirees who’ve spent decades building — this is exactly the wrong time to leave your estate unprotected.

Without a signed estate plan, California’s intestate succession laws decide who gets what. 

Those defaults don’t know your wishes, your family dynamics, or what you’ve built. A proper plan does.

Greene Law Firm helps Bay Area clients create estate plans that hold — through market volatility, policy changes, and the unexpected. Here’s what you need, what to do, and how the process actually works.

Not sure where your plan stands?

Most Bay Area residents — at every income level — are missing at least one critical document. Find out where your gaps are.

Call  (415) 905-0215

Email  info@greenelawfirm.com

Web  greenelawfirm.com  ·  assetprotectionbayarea.com

2  WHAT TO DO

Five documents. One complete California estate plan.

A revocable living trust is the foundation. It keeps your estate out of California’s probate process — which, depending on the complexity and size of your estate, can take months to several years and consume a meaningful portion of its value in court and attorney fees.

A durable power of attorney names someone to handle your finances if you’re incapacitated.

An advance health care directive names your medical decision-maker and puts your wishes in writing. Without both, your family may need a court-ordered conservatorship — slow, expensive, and fully public.

A HIPAA authorization ensures they can access your medical records the moment it matters.

• “International conflict, shifting immigration policy, volatile markets — none of that is in your control. A California estate plan is.”

Round out the plan with a digital asset inventory — brokerage accounts, crypto, business logins. And review your beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance: they override your trust entirely, and outdated ones are one of the most common and costly mistakes we see at Greene Law Firm.

COMMON QUESTIONS

How long does California probate take?

For a straightforward estate, probate typically takes 12 to 18 months. Complex estates — multiple properties, disputes, or hard-to-value assets — can take significantly longer. A funded living trust avoids probate entirely.

Do I need a living trust or just a will in California?

For most California homeowners, a living trust is the stronger choice. A will alone requires probate. A trust transfers assets privately and immediately, without court involvement.

When should I update my estate plan?

After any major life event — marriage, divorce, a new child, a home purchase, a significant change in assets — and at minimum every three to five years. Laws change; your plan should keep pace.

Ready to put these documents in place?

Greene Law Firm builds comprehensive California estate plans — trust, pour-over will, powers of attorney, and health care directive. Let’s talk.

Call  (415) 905-0215

Email  info@greenelawfirm.com

3  HOW IT WORKS

Working with Greene Law Firm: the process

It starts with a consultation — typically around one hour when you come prepared and know what you want. More complex situations, or conversations that open new questions, naturally take longer. Either way, the goal is to understand your full picture before anything is drafted.

Drafting moves quickly when you provide complete information and stay responsive. Delays happen when details trickle in or communications get crossed — so the more organized you are going in, the faster your plan comes together. We’ll tell you exactly what to bring.

1.  Consultation  —  Around 1 hour for straightforward situations; longer for complex estates. Come with a list of assets and a clear sense of who you trust to make decisions.

2.  Document drafting  —  Fast when you’re organized and responsive. Slower when information trickles in. We tell you exactly what we need upfront to keep things moving.

3.  Review and signing  —  You review everything, ask questions, and sign with proper notarization. Greene Law Firm coordinates all logistics.

4.  Trust funding  —  Assets are retitled into the trust. Skip this and the plan is structure without substance — it’s the most important final step.

5.  Ongoing review  —  Revisit after major life events and every few years. Your plan should evolve as your life, assets, and California law change.

Work with a Bay Area estate planning attorney

Greene Law Firm serves clients across the San Francisco Bay Area with estate planning, asset protection, and trust administration. Call, email, or visit us online to learn more about what we can do for you.

Call  (415) 905-0215

Email  info@greenelawfirm.com

Web  greenelawfirm.com  ·  assetprotectionbayarea.com

About Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA

Attorney Jay Patrick Greene founded Greene Law Firm, P.C. and is licensed in California, Alabama, and Florida. He has more than 15 years of experience with wills, trusts, probate, elder law, and asset protection.

Statements in Compliance With California Rules of Professional Conduct

The materials in this article are for educational purposes only and are not legal advice. Consult an estate planning or elder law attorney for advice tailored to your circumstances.

Medi-Cal Estate Recovery in 2026: Will the State Take My Bay Area Home?
What California’s updated recovery rules mean for families, homeowners, and professionals who advise them.

By Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA 

Trust, Probate, and Elder Law Attorney 

Greene Law Firm, P.C.

Published: May 4, 2026

From Getting Medi-Cal to What Happens After

In April, we looked at California’s new probate thresholds under AB 2016 and the return of Medi-Cal’s asset limits for 2026. Those rules decide who qualifies for help with long‑term care.

This month we focus on what happens after Medi-Cal pays for your care and you later pass away. Under California’s Estate Recovery Program, the state can seek reimbursement from certain estates — but the rules are narrower than many people fear.

If you have not yet mapped how your own assets would pass at death, this is a good moment to pull out your trust, will, and account list and compare them to what you learn here.

2026 Estate Recovery Basics: Where the State Can Look

California now limits Medi-Cal estate recovery to what federal law requires. For people 55 and older, the state can seek recovery only for nursing facility services, home and community‑based services, and related hospital and prescription drug costs.

Just as important, recovery is limited to your probate estate — the assets that would pass through probate if a court had to supervise the transfer of your property. Think individually‑owned real estate and accounts with no beneficiary, joint owner, or trust.

If you are a financial advisor, HR professional, or healthcare social worker, understanding which assets fall inside that “probate box” is a practical way to spot clients at higher recovery risk.

What’s Outside the Recovery Target

Because recovery is tied to probate, assets that bypass probate are often outside DHCS’s reach when structured properly:

• Revocable living trusts – Assets titled in your living trust generally avoid probate and are not part of the estate defined for recovery.

• Joint tenancy / community property with right of survivorship – Your share passes directly to the surviving co‑owner, not through the probate estate.

• Transfer‑on‑death (TOD) deeds and POD/TOD accounts – Properly executed TOD deeds and beneficiary designations move real estate and accounts straight to named beneficiaries.

A simple action item here: pick one key asset (your home, a major investment account, or a business interest) and confirm today whether it currently passes through probate or not.

Your Home: The Central Asset

For many Bay Area residents, the home is both the largest asset and the biggest worry.

If your home is in your name alone at death and must go through probate, it can be exposed to an estate recovery claim (subject to exemptions and hardship waivers). If it passes via a revocable living trust, joint tenancy with right of survivorship, or a valid TOD deed, it typically avoids probate and is generally outside the recovery base.

For households with significant home equity, this is where a short review with an estate planning attorney or knowledgeable advisor can have outsized impact — one title change today can determine what is on the table years from now.

The AB 2016 Misconception: “Simplified” Is Still Probate

AB 2016 raised small‑estate thresholds and created simplified procedures for qualifying properties and accounts. That has led some people to believe they no longer need a trust.

But a “simplified” court process is still probate. Assets handled under these procedures are still part of your probate estate, which means they remain within the scope of Medi-Cal estate recovery.

If your current plan relies on AB 2016 alone to “keep things simple,” it may be worth revisiting that assumption before a health event forces a rushed decision.

When Recovery Is Delayed, Reduced, or Waived

Even when recovery applies, there are important protections:

• Surviving spouse or registered domestic partner – No recovery while they are alive.

• Homestead of modest value – A home worth 50% or less than the county’s average price may qualify for a waiver.

• Hardship waivers – Heirs may seek a waiver if recovery would cause undue hardship, such as forcing the sale of a residence where a low‑income heir lives.

Professionals who support older adults — social workers, care coordinators, hospital case managers — are often in the best position to flag when a family should ask about these waivers before agreeing to pay a claim.

Irrevocable Trusts and Special Situations

Some clients consider irrevocable trusts or special needs trusts to further limit recovery and protect vulnerable beneficiaries.

A revocable living trust is primarily a probate‑avoidance tool; it usually keeps assets outside the recovery estate by keeping them out of probate. An irrevocable trust can add another layer of protection but may affect eligibility, control, and tax treatment, and a special needs trust can provide for a disabled beneficiary without disrupting benefits.

If your family includes a person with a disability, a business interest you hope to keep in the family, or property in multiple states, raising these “special situations” explicitly in your next review can help your advisors tailor options instead of defaulting to a one‑page form.

Three Alignment Checks for May

Whether you are a homeowner, a professional advising clients, or both, consider three quick checks:

1. Titles vs. intent. Does how your home and accounts are titled match what you think your trust and will say? If not, your plan may not work as intended.

2. Beneficiary designations. Do retirement plans, life insurance, and investment accounts have current beneficiaries that reflect your actual wishes and minimize probate?

3. Estate recovery awareness. Have you asked specifically, “How does this strategy affect potential Medi-Cal estate recovery?” in your latest planning review?

If the honest answer to any of these is “I’m not sure,” that uncertainty is a useful prompt to schedule a focused planning conversation.

Free Estate Recovery and Trust Funding Assessment

Greene Law Firm, P.C. works with Bay Area families and professionals — including financial advisors, CPAs, and care coordinators — to align estate plans with current probate, Medi-Cal eligibility, and estate recovery rules.

For a free initial assessment of your trust funding, titles, and potential recovery exposure, contact Greene Law Firm, P.C. at 415-905-0215 or visit assetprotectionbayarea.com.

About Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA

Attorney Jay Patrick Greene founded Greene Law Firm, P.C. and is licensed in California, Alabama, and Florida. He has more than 15 years of experience with wills, trusts, probate, elder law, and asset protection.

Statements in Compliance With California Rules of Professional Conduct

The materials in this article are for educational purposes only and are not legal advice. Consult an estate planning or elder law attorney for advice tailored to your circumstances.

California Just Changed the Rules on Probate and Medi-Cal

Two landmark law changes took effect in 2025 and 2026. If your estate plan was written before them, it may no longer protect what you built.

By Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA 

Trust, Probate, and Elder Law Attorney 

Greene Law Firm, P.C. | Bay Area 

Published: April 6, 2026

Why This Matters Now

The most important deadline in estate planning is not on a calendar. It is your legal capacity. Once a stroke, cognitive decline, or serious injury leaves you unable to sign, no attorney can restructure your estate plan, retitle property, or create new authority documents for you. If your plan needs updating, the window to act is open now — and only while you still have the power to sign.

Two of the most significant California law changes in more than a decade now affect probate and Medi-Cal planning. One changes how certain homes and small estates can pass after death. The other brings back asset limits for long-term care Medi-Cal. For Bay Area families, both changes raise the same practical question: does your current plan still work under today's rules?

In 30 Seconds: What Changed and What to Do Now

• California created a simplified probate process for a primary residence worth $750,000 or less, but that threshold will not help many Bay Area homeowners.

• The small-estate limit for certain non-real estate assets increased and is indexed for inflation; as of April 1, 2025, it is $208,850.

• Beginning January 1, 2026, asset limits return for non-MAGI Medi-Cal, including long-term care coverage.

• Medi-Cal long-term care applications now face a 30-month lookback for transfers made for less than fair market value.

• If you already have a trust, confirm that your home and accounts are actually titled or designated correctly. If you do not, a review is timely now.

Change #1: California’s Probate Rules

Assembly Bill 2016 took effect April 1, 2025. It created a simplified court process to transfer a decedent’s primary residence when the gross value is $750,000 or less, and it increased the small-estate threshold for certain non-real estate assets above the former $184,500 cap.

• $750,000 — simplified transfer threshold for a qualifying primary residence

• $208,850 — current small-estate limit for eligible personal property as of April 1, 2025

• 12–18 months — a common Bay Area probate timeline that a properly funded living trust can often avoid entirely

What the New Probate Law Does — and Does Not Do

The new law offers some relief, but it is not a substitute for a living trust. For many Bay Area families, it will have limited practical value because local home values often exceed the threshold. In addition, the law applies only to a principal residence, all heirs must agree, the value is measured at death without reducing it for mortgages or liens, and a court process is still required — even if simplified.

That means the central planning lesson has not changed: a properly funded living trust remains the most reliable way to avoid probate regardless of home value. The key word is funded. A trust document alone does not keep a home out of probate if title was never transferred into the trust.

Trust Funding: The Step Families Miss Most Often

One of the most common problems appears after refinancing. During the loan process, lenders often remove the trust from title. Homeowners are frequently unaware that the property was never transferred back. As a result, families can believe they have probate protection when the home is actually still owned in an individual name.

Pull your current deed from the county recorder and read the title line carefully. Ideally, it should show ownership in a form such as: “[Your Name], Trustee of the [Your Name] Living Trust.” If the property is still titled only in your personal name, that gap should be reviewed and corrected while you still have legal capacity to sign.

Change #2: Medi-Cal Asset Limits Return

California temporarily suspended asset tests for many Medi-Cal programs in 2024 and 2025. Beginning January 1, 2026, those limits return for non-MAGI Medi-Cal, including long-term care coverage.

• $130,000 — countable asset limit for one applicant

• $195,000 — countable asset limit for a married couple

• + $65,000 — additional allowance for each extra eligible household member

• $13,000–$16,000 per month — a typical private-pay skilled nursing range in San Francisco

For Bay Area families, these numbers matter because ordinary savings can become disqualifying assets very quickly. A family that assumed Medi-Cal would be available when care was needed may instead face many months of private-pay costs before eligibility begins.

The 30-Month Lookback

When someone applies for long-term care Medi-Cal, the county reviews 30 months of financial history. Transfers for less than fair market value — including gifts to children or other family members — can create a penalty period during which Medi-Cal will not pay for care.

• A transfer can create a Medi-Cal penalty even if it falls within the federal annual gift tax exclusion.

• The federal gift exclusion does not override Medi-Cal’s separate eligibility rules.

• The penalty calculation is tied to regional nursing home cost figures, which in California are substantial.

In short, a transfer that seems harmless for tax purposes can still create serious problems for benefit eligibility. Significant gifts or retitling decisions should be reviewed before they are made, not after an application is filed.

What Counts as a Countable Asset?

Asset classification matters. Broadly speaking, bank accounts, CDs, brokerage accounts, second homes, and many non-exempt investments are countable. A primary residence, one vehicle, and assets held in certain properly structured trusts may be exempt, depending on the facts. One account classified incorrectly can delay or derail an otherwise valid application.

How Probate and Medi-Cal Connect

These two areas of law overlap in a way many families do not realize. California’s Medi-Cal estate recovery program can generally recover only from assets that pass through probate. Assets held in a properly funded revocable living trust, in joint tenancy, or through a valid transfer-on-death arrangement often avoid probate and therefore may also avoid estate recovery when set up correctly.

That is why trust funding matters so much. The protection exists only if title and beneficiary designations were handled correctly before incapacity or death. Once legal capacity is lost, many of the most useful planning options disappear.

What You Should Do Right Now

1. Review trust funding, not just trust documents. Confirm that your home and major accounts are actually titled in the trust or have the intended beneficiary designations.

2. Get advice before making gifts or transfers. The Medi-Cal lookback means a decision made today can affect long-term care eligibility years from now.

3. Update powers of attorney and health care directives. Without them, loved ones may need a conservatorship before anyone can legally act on your behalf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the new $750,000 threshold mean I no longer need a living trust?

For most Bay Area homeowners, no. Many homes in San Francisco, Marin, the Peninsula, and the South Bay exceed that threshold. Even when a home qualifies, the new law still requires a court process. A properly funded living trust remains more complete probate protection.

If my trust says the house belongs in the trust, isn’t that enough?

Not by itself. The deed must usually be transferred into the trust’s name. If title still shows your individual name only, the property may still be subject to probate.

Can gifts to family affect Medi-Cal eligibility?

Yes. Transfers for less than fair market value within the 30-month lookback period can trigger a penalty period, even if the transfer is permissible for federal gift-tax purposes.

What should I review first if I already have a plan?

Start with your deed, trust funding, beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, and any recent or planned transfers. Those are often the points where a seemingly complete plan breaks down.

A Timely Review Can Prevent Expensive Surprises

If your estate plan has not been reviewed since 2024, it may be working from rules that no longer apply. A focused review can confirm what is already protecting you well and identify what should be updated while change is still possible.

For a confidential initial assessment, contact Greene Law Firm, P.C. at 415-905-0215, info@greenelawfirm.com, or visit assetprotectionbayarea.com.

About Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA

Attorney Jay Patrick Greene founded Greene Law Firm, P.C. and is licensed in California, Alabama, and Florida. He has more than 15 years of experience with wills, trusts, probate, elder law, and asset protection.

Statements in Compliance With California Rules of Professional Conduct

The materials in this article are for educational purposes only and are not legal advice. Consult an estate planning or elder law attorney for advice tailored to your circumstances.

March 2026 Medi-Cal Long-Term Care Enrollment: Bay Area Paperwork Essentials and Filing Advice

By Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA
Trust, Probate, and Elder Law Attorney
Published: March 2, 2026 | San Francisco, California

Now that Medi-Cal’s 2026 asset limits are back in place, Bay Area seniors and families getting ready for long-term care benefits can use this simple March enrollment guide. This article builds on January’s asset-limit overview and February’s asset-review checklist by focusing on the paperwork and filing steps for skilled nursing or in‑home care. It is designed for Bay Area households with different living arrangements, so you can move your application forward in an expensive region.

Preparing Vital Paperwork

Start by gathering the documents county Medi-Cal workers commonly ask for in long-term care applications:

• Financial history. Collect at least 30 months of bank, investment, and other account statements to cover the lookback period for Long-Term Care Medi-Cal. County workers review that timeframe to check for gifts or transfers for less than fair market value, which can create a penalty period when you apply. Transfers made before 2026 can still matter if they fall inside this 30‑month window, so have your attorney review any significant moves.

• Income proof. Gather pay stubs, pension and annuity statements, Social Security or SSI letters, and your recent federal and state tax returns.

• Asset proofs. Organize property deeds, property tax bills, car registrations, account statements, and documents for life insurance or business interests.

• Identity and residency. Have Social Security cards, driver’s licenses or photo IDs, birth certificates when available, and proof that you live in California, such as utility bills or leases.

• Medical information. For long-term care, assemble medical records and doctor’s notes that show why you need nursing home or in‑home services. These medical papers work together with the $130,000 single and $195,000 couple countable asset limits under 2026 non‑MAGI Medi‑Cal rules.

Regional Filing Options in the Bay Area

Most Bay Area counties use the same main ways to apply for Medi-Cal long-term care:

• Online. Use BenefitsCal, the statewide benefits website, to apply, upload documents, and track your case.

• By phone or in person. Call or visit your county human services or social services office; each Bay Area county lists Medi-Cal phone numbers, office locations, and office hours on its official website.

• By mail or fax. In many counties, you can download paper forms, then mail or fax them to your local office if that works better for you.

Examples:

• San Francisco. Applications are handled through the San Francisco Human Services Agency (SFHSA). You can start online through BenefitsCal and find current contact options, office locations, and phone numbers at sfhsa.org.

• Other Bay Area counties. Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, and other nearby counties publish Medi-Cal application and contact details on their official social services or human services websites, with BenefitsCal as the main online gateway.

Many applications are processed in about 30–45 days. If your case involves a disability determination or more complex review, it can take up to about 90 days.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Use these steps to keep your long-term care application organized:

1. Gather papers ahead of time. Keep your 30‑month financial statements, asset documents, identification, and proof of California residency together in one file or folder that is easy to bring to appointments.

2. Fill out the Medi-Cal application. Complete the form carefully, listing all household members, income sources, and assets. Attach copies of your IDs, income proof, asset statements, and medical records that support your need for long-term care.

3. Submit the application your preferred way. Apply through BenefitsCal for a convenient online process, or submit your packet by mail, fax, or in person at your county office if that suits you better.

4. Respond quickly to follow-up requests. If the county sends a notice asking for more documents or explanations (for example, about transfers in your 30‑month statements), answer by the stated deadline to reduce the risk of delays or denials.

5. Review your Notice of Action. Once the county decides—often in 30–45 days, or up to 90 days in disability cases—you will get a Notice of Action approving, denying, or changing your request. If you disagree, you can ask for a fair hearing and talk to an elder law attorney about appeal options.

Boosting Applications for Bay Area Households

Bay Area families often have complex living arrangements and mixed income sources. A few extra steps can help:

• Document your household. For households with non‑traditional setups, include statements from caregivers or partners along with joint bills, leases, or other shared living proofs. This helps show how your household actually works and can prevent questions later.

• Clarify self-employment income. If you are self-employed, add 2–3 years of tax returns and key business records. Because Medi-Cal may treat changing income differently, discuss your situation with an elder law attorney or accountant before you apply.

Common Delays and How to Avoid Them

Watch out for these frequent issues:

• Missing financial history. Gaps in your 30‑month bank or investment statements can raise questions. Request any missing statements before you file your application.

• Unexplained transfers. Be ready to explain large withdrawals or transfers, especially gifts, during the lookback period. When possible, include documents showing that sales or transfers were for fair market value.

• Incomplete ID or residency proof. Make sure your packet includes government IDs, Social Security numbers, and current California residency proof for everyone in your household who is applying.

• Unclear medical need. Ask your doctors to make sure your medical records clearly describe the level of care you need (for example, skilled nursing facility, or home-based waiver services). Vague or incomplete medical paperwork can slow approval.

Medi-Cal Long-Term Care Enrollment 2026: Frequently Asked Questions

What papers do I need for Medi-Cal long-term care?Key items include bank and investment statements, income proofs, asset documents, identification papers, and medical records that explain your care needs.

How long does a Medi-Cal application take in California?Many applications take about 30–45 days. Cases that involve disability reviews or more complex issues can take up to roughly 90 days.

Where do I apply for Medi-Cal in the Bay Area?You can apply online through BenefitsCal, by phone, by mail, or in person at your county human services or social services office. In San Francisco, you can find current application options and contact information on the SFHSA website and through SF Health Plan resources.

Wrapping Up Your Enrollment

This March guide connects January’s 2026 asset-limit rules and February’s asset-review checklist, giving you a practical roadmap for filing Medi-Cal long-term care applications in the Bay Area. Elder law attorneys and experienced advocates can help you put together a strong document set, respond to county questions, and pursue appeals if needed.

Lock In Your Coverage Now

By preparing a complete application packet and understanding the 2026 Medi-Cal rules, you can apply with more confidence and better protect your future long-term care options in the Bay Area.

By Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPATrust, Probate, and Elder Law Attorney

Contact Greene Law Firm, P.C. today. Call 415‑905‑0215 or email info@greenelawfirm.com for a free initial assessment of your Medi-Cal long-term care planning options.

Statements in Compliance With California Rules of Professional ConductThe materials in this article are for educational purposes only and are not legal advice. Consult an estate planning or elder law attorney for personalized guidance.

Attorney Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA, founded Greene Law Firm, P.C., which is licensed in California, Alabama, and Florida. He has over 15 years of experience with wills, trusts, probate, elder law, and asset protection. For more information, visit:

https://assetprotectionbayarea.com

February 2026 Medi-Cal Asset Review for Bay Area Seniors: Simple Checklist and Planning Tips

By Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA
Trust, Probate, and Elder Law Attorney
Published: February 9, 2026 | San Francisco, California

With Medi-Cal’s 2026 asset limits back in place, Bay Area seniors and couples have a good chance this February to do a basic asset review. This guide gives an easy Medi-Cal asset review checklist for 2026, made for Bay Area homeowners and couples. It helps you tell exempt (protected) assets from countable (ones that count against the limit) under California’s new rules. This February checklist builds on our January overview of asset limits. It gets you ready for long-term care planning, like nursing homes or help at home.

Understanding Exempt vs. Countable Assets in 2026

Under the new non-MAGI Medi-Cal rules that started January 1, 2026, single people can have up to $130,000 in countable assets. Couples can have up to $195,000, plus $65,000 for each extra household member (up to 10 people). There are special rules for married couples if one needs long-term care.

Exempt assets (these don’t count) usually include your main home (if it fits Medi-Cal rules), one car, household items, some burial funds, and certain retirement accounts if you’re taking regular payments. Countable assets (these do count) include extra cash, stocks, vacation homes, or more than one car. In the Bay Area, where homes often cost over $1 million, knowing how Medi-Cal sees your home and other things is key to avoid problems with long-term care eligibility.

The Asset Review Checklist

Use this simple February checklist to sort out your situation and get ready to talk to an expert:

1. Gather 30 months of financial records. Get bank, investment, and other money statements for at least the last 30 months. California’s nursing-home Medi-Cal rules look back 30 months to check for transfers when you apply, so this helps your lawyer find issues early.

2. Make a list of all your assets. Write down everything you own with its current value: homes, bank accounts, investments, cars, retirement funds, business shares, and life insurance values.

3. Sort assets as exempt or countable. Using Medi-Cal rules, mark each one as exempt (like your main home if you or your spouse live there, one car, home items, burial funds) or countable (extra cash, stock accounts, second homes, extra cars).

4. Check transfers and gifts since mid-2023. Note any gifts or moves of money in the last 30 months—how much, when, and to whom. Transfers for less than full value during this time can delay your Medi-Cal for nursing homes when you file an application.

5. Find “extra” countable assets. Add up your countable assets and compare to the 2026 limit (like $130,000 for one person or $195,000 for a couple, plus extra for more household members). See how much you might need to spend or change.

6. Set up a meeting with an elder law lawyer. Take your list and transfer notes to a good elder law attorney. They can check what’s exempt, look at past transfers, and talk about options like special trusts, spouse rules, or safe ways to spend down.

Real-World Example for Bay Area Residents

Think about Elena and Alex, a married couple in San Francisco with a $2.5 million condo. It’s their main home, so it’s exempt under Medi-Cal rules. They have $180,000 in savings. Under 2026 rules, their countable asset limit is $195,000, so they’re under if all $180,000 counts.

If they had $260,000 in countable savings, they’d be $65,000 over. Working with a lawyer, they could do a safe spenddown—like paying debts, adding home safety features (grab bars, ramps, stair lifts), or pre-paying burial costs. This turns extra countable assets into exempt ones and helps meet eligibility. This planning is helpful for Bay Area families where high costs make saving hard.

Tailored Guidance for Bay Area Households

For families with different setups, get papers ready now. This includes marriage papers, shared bill proofs like joint utilities, or statements from family or friends who help with care. These show how your household works and avoid delays. For self-employed people, bring recent tax forms and business records. Medi-Cal might handle changing income in a special way—talk to an elder law lawyer or accountant first.

Medi-Cal 2026 Planning: Frequently Asked Questions

What assets count toward Medi-Cal limits?

Countable assets usually include cash, bank accounts, investments, and extra property like vacation homes. Exempt assets often include your main home, one car, household goods, burial funds, and some retirement accounts in payout.

How much can a couple keep under 2026 rules?

For non-MAGI Medi-Cal, a couple’s basic combined asset limit is $195,000, plus $65,000 for each additional household member, up to 10 people. In long-term care cases, spouse rules may let the at-home spouse keep more.

What is a Medi-Cal spenddown?

A Medi-Cal spenddown means using extra countable assets for okay expenses—like medical bills, debt pay off, needed home fixes, or pre-paid burial plans—so your left countable assets are at or below the Medi-Cal limit, without bad gifts.

Moving Forward with Confidence

This February guide builds on January’s asset-limit overview and sets the stage for March’s application-focused tips, providing a structured way to clarify your exempt vs. countable assets under California’s 2026 Medi-Cal rules. An elder law professional can refine your Medi-Cal asset review checklist and help you implement strategies tailored to your Bay Area household and goals.

Keep Your Planning on Track

Use these steps now to strengthen your plan and better prepare for potential long-term care needs in the Bay Area.

Contact Greene Law Firm, P.C. today. Call 415-905-0215 or email info@greenelawfirm.com—free initial assessment.

Statements in Compliance With California Rules of Professional Conduct

The materials in this article are for educational purposes only and are not legal advice. Consult an estate planning attorney for personalized guidance.

Attorney Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA, founded Greene Law Firm, P.C., which is licensed in California, Alabama, and Florida. He has over 15 years of experience concerning wills, trusts, probate, elder law, and asset protection. For more information, visit:

https://assetprotectionbayarea.com

The 2025 Medi-Cal Window Closed - What Bay Area Families Can Do Now

By Jay Patrick Greene, Esq., CPA
Trust, Probate, and Elder Law Attorney
Published: January 8, 2026 | San Francisco, California

On January 1, 2026, California brought back asset limits for Medi-Cal long-term care. For two years, families could qualify for nursing home coverage regardless of how much money they had. That window is closed. Now, if you have more than $130,000 (individual) or $195,000 (couple), you’ll need to act strategically or risk paying thousands per month out of pocket.

WHAT CHANGED ON JANUARY 1, 2026?

California reinstated Medi-Cal asset limits on January 1, 2026. Individuals can have no more than $130,000 in countable assets; couples, $195,000 (plus $65,000 per additional household member). The state also reactivated the 30-month lookback period, reviewing your financial transfers from the past 30 months. Gifts or transfers can trigger ineligibility penalties.

Why This Matters:

From January 2024 to December 31, 2025, California had no asset test—you qualified for Medi-Cal nursing home coverage based on income alone, regardless of wealth. That temporary relief is gone. For Bay Area families with substantial assets, this means three critical things:

1.          You must now report your assets when applying for Medi-Cal

2.          Excess assets must be spent down or sheltered legally before you qualify

3.          The timing of any financial moves matters enormously because the state reviews 30 months of history

THE NEW MEDI-CAL ASSET LIMITS (EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026)

What Are the Exact Asset Limits?

Individual: $130,000 (countable assets only; home excluded)

Married Couple: $195,000 (combined for both spouses)

Each Additional Household Member: Add $65,000 (up to 10 household members total)

Institutionalized Spouse: $130,000 (plus community spouse protections)

Community (At-Home) Spouse: Up to $157,920 (special spousal impoverishment rules apply)

What Counts as Assets:

These assets count toward the limit:

•             Cash and bank accounts

•             Stocks, bonds, mutual funds

•             Investment real estate

•             Life insurance with cash value (over $1,500)

•             Vehicles beyond the first one

What Does NOT Count (Exempt Assets):

These are protected and don’t count:

•             Primary residence (your home)

•             One vehicle

•             Household items and personal effects

•             Jewelry within reasonable limits

•             Retirement accounts in current payout status

THE 30-MONTH LOOKBACK PERIOD

How Does It Work?

When you apply for Medi-Cal in 2026 or later, California reviews every financial transfer from the past 30 months. If you gave away money, funded a trust, or made large payments to family, the state may impose an ineligibility penalty.

How the Penalty Works:

The penalty is calculated using this formula:

Penalty = Amount Transferred ÷ Average Monthly Nursing Home Cost in Your Area

San Francisco Example:

Let’s say you transfer $80,000 to your daughter on March 1, 2026.

Average monthly nursing home cost in San Francisco: approximately 20,000. Using $15,000 for this calculation:

$80,000 ÷ $15,000 = approximately 5 months

Result: If you apply for Medi-Cal in 2027, you’ll be ineligible for 5 months while you pay privately (about $75,000 out of pocket).

San Francisco Nursing Home Costs (2026):

•       Semi-private room: 18,000 per month

•       Private room: 25,000+ per month

•       Average monthly cost for penalty calculation: approximately 20,000

The Timeline Question: Are Gifts Before or After January 1 Safer?

Gifts Made BEFORE January 1, 2026:

These are safer. If you apply for Medi-Cal in January 2026, the state only looks back to January 2025. Gifts from 2024 or earlier are outside the review window (as long as they occurred more than 30 months before your application date).

Gifts Made AFTER January 1, 2026:

These are subject to the 30-month lookback. If you apply in 2026 or later, gifts from early 2024 forward are under review.

YOUR THREE LEGAL OPTIONS

What are my options if I have more assets than Medi-Cal allows?

You have three main strategies. Which one is best depends on how much you have over the limit and how soon you might need care.

OPTION 1: SPEND DOWN SMARTLY (If 150,000 Over Limit)

When It Works:

You have time (4–6 weeks), and your excess assets aren’t enormous.

How It Works:

Use your extra money on allowed expenses that must be paid anyway. You reduce your countable assets to meet Medi-Cal limits while getting value from the spending.

Allowed Spend-Down Expenses:

You can spend down by paying for:

•             Home modifications for safety (ramps, grab bars, accessibility upgrades, stair lifts)

•             Medical and dental bills (including unpaid balances)

•             Home care and personal assistance services

•             Home repairs that protect the property

•             Prepaid funeral or burial costs

•             Property taxes and insurance

•             Paying off personal debt

Timeline Example:

Situation: You have $240,000 in liquid assets; Medi-Cal limit is $130,000

Your overage: $110,000

Action: You spend $110,000 over 4–6 weeks on home modifications, medical debt, and pre-arranged burial

Result: You apply for Medi-Cal with $130,000 left and are approved with no penalty

Advantage: Fast, simple, no penalty period

Disadvantage: Assets are gone (but spent on necessary items)

OPTION 2: SET UP AN IRREVOCABLE TRUST (If $100,000+ Over)

When It Works:

You want to protect assets long-term and reduce Medi-Cal countable assets without immediate spend-down.

How It Works:

You transfer excess assets into an irrevocable trust. The trust holds the assets, so they don’t count toward Medi-Cal limits (after the 30-month lookback period ends).

Important: Trusts created AFTER January 1, 2026 start the 30-month clock. This means:

•             You may pay privately for 3–18 months before Medi-Cal kicks in

•             After 30 months, the transferred assets are safe and don’t count

•             Your family eventually inherits the protected assets

Timeline Example:

Situation: You have $300,000 in assets; Medi-Cal limit is $130,000

Action: You fund an irrevocable trust with $170,000 in January 2026

Medi-Cal lookback begins. Penalty calculation: $170,000 ÷ $15,000 monthly cost = approximately 11 months ineligibility

You pay privately for 11 months: approximately $165,000 out of pocket

Month 12 and beyond: You qualify for Medi-Cal and it pays for care

Result: Assets are eventually protected; your family inherits the remaining wealth after you pass

Advantage: Long-term asset protection; family inheritance preserved

Disadvantage: Private-pay period during lookback; irrevocable (can’t change terms later)

OPTION 3: PAY PRIVATELY FIRST, PLAN LATER (If $200,000+ Assets)

When It Works:

You have substantial wealth and don’t need immediate Medi-Cal approval.

How It Works:

You pay for nursing home care out of pocket now. Over months or years, you and your attorney restructure assets strategically to reduce what Medi-Cal counts. No rushing; no penalties triggered by poor timing.

Timeline Example:

Situation: You have $500,000 in assets; current care costs $18,000 per month

Year 1: You pay privately for 12 months (approximately $216,000 spent)

During this time: Your CPA and elder law attorney implement a long-term asset protection plan

By month 13: You’ve restructured assets or spent down through allowed means

You apply for Medi-Cal: with reduced countable assets

Result: You paid for a year of care, but protected remaining assets strategically

Advantage: Flexibility; no rush; tax-efficient planning possible

Disadvantage: You pay full cost for an extended period

SAN FRANCISCO-SPECIFIC COSTS & PLANNING

How Nursing Home Costs Affect Your Medi-Cal Planning

2026 San Francisco Nursing Home Costs:

•       Semi-private room: 18,000 per month (median approximately $15,817)

•       Private room: 25,000+ per month

•       Annual cost: 300,000+

This high cost means:

1.          Penalty divisor is larger: A $100,000 transfer equals fewer months of ineligibility than in lower-cost states

2.          You burn through assets quickly: Without Medi-Cal, private pay depletes savings in 3–5 years

3.          Planning is urgent: Bay Area families are more likely to exceed Medi-Cal limits

Regional Comparison Example:

$100,000 transfer in San Francisco: $100,000 ÷ $15,000 = approximately 7 months ineligibility

$100,000 transfer in Texas: $100,000 ÷ $8,000 = approximately 12 months ineligibility

San Francisco families trigger shorter penalty periods but face higher absolute costs.

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT MEDI-CAL 2026

Question: “Can I give gifts to my family right now without penalty?”

Answer: Technically yes, but expect review. If you give $50,000 to your son today and apply for Medi-Cal in 2027, the state will ask about it and impose a penalty period. A better option: Use an irrevocable trust structure, which is designed for asset protection and has clearer legal standing.

Question: “I’m 62 and healthy. Why plan now if I might never need nursing home care?”

Answer: Two reasons. First, planning now is legally safer—gifts made today are further from your Medi-Cal application date, reducing lookback risk. Second, incapacity (stroke, dementia, accident) can happen at any age. You’d rather restructure assets proactively than under crisis pressure.

Question: “If I need care in 2027, am I stuck with private pay?”

Answer: Not necessarily. If you need care soon (2026–2027) and have excess assets, spend-down option is best. You can reduce countable assets in weeks by paying for home modifications, medical bills, or other allowed expenses. Then apply for Medi-Cal.

Question: “Do I need a lawyer and a CPA?”

Answer: Medi-Cal planning touches both law and taxes. Trusts require legal drafting. Asset restructuring requires tax planning to avoid unintended tax consequences. Working with an attorney and CPA together prevents costly mistakes.

Question: “What if my spouse is in a nursing home but I’m still at home?”

Answer: Spousal impoverishment rules protect you. Your spouse can use $130,000 of countable assets; you (the community spouse) can typically keep $157,920 and your home. California law is more generous than federal rules. Discuss with an attorney to optimize protection.

YOUR ACTION PLAN FOR JANUARY 2026

This Week:

1.          List Your Assets: Gather statements for all bank accounts, investments, real estate, vehicles, retirement accounts, and life insurance policies.

2.          Calculate Your Medi-Cal Limit: Individual limit is $130,000; couple limit is $195,000. Do you exceed this? By how much?

3.          Identify Timing: When might you need long-term care? If soon, spend-down is best. If years away, trust option is better. If no rush, private-pay strategy works.

4.          Call for a Free Assessment: Contact Greene Law Firm at 415-905-0215. Jay Greene will review your situation, outline your best options, and discuss penalty risks and tax effects.

By January 20, 2026:

•             Have a preliminary plan in place (spend-down vs. trust vs. private-pay)

•             Understand your estimated penalty period (if any)

•             Know the tax implications of your strategy

•             Be informed about whether to move quickly or wait

FREE INITIAL MEDI-CAL ASSESSMENT

What You’ll Get:

•             Confidential analysis of your assets and Medi-Cal eligibility

•             Review of your best legal option (spend-down, trust, or private-pay strategy)

•             Discussion of penalty risks specific to your situation

•             No pressure; no obligation

How to Schedule:

Phone: 415-905-0215

Email: info@greenelawfirm.com

Website: www.assetprotectionbayarea.com

ABOUT JAY PATRICK GREENE, ESQ., CPA

Education & Credentials:

Jay Patrick Greene holds a J.D. from Hastings College of Law (2007) and is a licensed California attorney. He is also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensed by the State of California (2002). His specialization is in elder law, asset protection, and Medi-Cal planning.

Experience:

Jay Greene has spent 10+ years helping San Francisco Bay Area families navigate elder law and long-term care planning. As both an attorney and CPA, he addresses legal and tax issues together—preventing costly mistakes and optimizing family wealth protection.

Service Area:

Greene Law Firm serves families throughout:

•             San Francisco

•             Marin County

•             Alameda County

•             Surrounding Bay Area communities

Contact Information:

Greene Law Firm, P.C. 447 Sutter Street, Suite 435 San Francisco, CA 94108

Phone: 415-905-0215

Email: info@greenelawfirm.com

Website: www.greenelawfirm.com or www.assetprotectionbayarea.com

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER

This article is educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Estate Planning and Medi-Cal laws are complex and change frequently. Your strategy must be tailored to your specific situation, family dynamics, household composition, asset types, income, and care needs.

As families reflect on the year, securing your assets through estate planning is crucial for protecting loved ones and ensuring financial stability. This means establishing at least a minimum estate plan—like a will, powers of attorney, and advance directives—or completing a full plan with trusts to safeguard against uncertainties.

In 2025, with California's Medi-Cal program evolving, major updates effective January 1, 2026, reinstate asset limits at $130,000 per person and $195,000 per couple for most non-MAGI programs, plus $65,000 for each additional household member up to 10 (some spousal protections and program-specific rules apply). This makes it essential to review and update plans now to maintain eligibility and avoid issues. Early action before December 31 helps leverage current rules, navigate rising costs, and protect family legacies in states like California and Alabama.

Options in the Bay Area can complement professional estate planning. For instance, coordinating legal strategies with supportive programs enhances asset protection and peace of mind.

What is a Minimum Estate Plan and Why Does It Matter?

A minimum estate plan provides basic protections to direct asset distribution, healthcare decisions, and financial management if you're incapacitated. It helps families avoid disputes and unnecessary taxes, though it typically requires probate for validation.

• Key elements: A last will and testament for inheritance; durable power of attorney for finances; advance healthcare directive for medical choices; beneficiary designations on accounts.

Example: Many clients in San Francisco use a simple will to ensure assets pass to heirs, but it still goes through probate court unless the estate qualifies for small estate exceptions (under $208,850 for personal property in California as of April 1, 2025; a separate higher threshold of $750,000 applies for primary residences under certain conditions).

In 2025, it's vital amid economic shifts and the 2026 Medi-Cal asset reinstatement—failing to plan risks eligibility loss or asset depletion. Benefits: Streamlined inheritance, reduced family stress, and alignment with your wishes.

Key Options for Estate Planning

• Minimum Estate Plan: Covers essentials like wills and directives to handle basics. Pros: Quick setup, cost-effective; cons: Typically undergoes probate.

• Complete Estate Plan: Includes revocable or irrevocable trusts for advanced protection. Pros: Avoids probate, shields from creditors.

• Updating Existing Plans: Reviews documents for life changes or new laws like 2026 Medi-Cal limits. Pros: Ensures compliance, maximizes exemptions.

In California, consider high property values and taxes; in Alabama, focus on probate differences. Common pitfalls: Outdated plans ignoring multi-state assets—professional guidance prevents this.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Started Before December 31

1. Assess your current setup—review existing documents or note gaps.

2. Gather key info: Deeds, accounts, insurance policies.

3. Consult a licensed attorney for tailored advice, incorporating 2026 Medi-Cal shifts.

4. Draft or update wills, trusts, and directives.

5. Designate beneficiaries and fund trusts if needed to avoid probate.

6. Review with family for clarity.

Common Questions About Estate Planning in 2025

Families often ask:

• How much does it cost? Costs depend on the service—expect higher prices for more comprehensive, personalized options.

• What are DIY risks? Misses state rules, risking invalid plans; professional review is essential.

• How does Medi-Cal fit? Updates in 2026 require asset strategies to preserve eligibility.

• When to start? Before December 31 to act under current rules.

Signs You Need Professional Guidance

• Property ownership; family changes; multi-state assets; business interests.

With planning rates low, guidance ensures your plan adapts to 2026 changes and addresses probate for wills.

How Greene Law Firm, P.C. Can Assist You

Greene Law Firm, P.C., assists clients with wills, trusts, probate, elder law, and asset protection. Licensed in California, Alabama, and Florida, we provide personalized plans that address family needs and coordinate with resources, drawing from multi-state experience.

• Clients: Families, business owners, retirees.

• Services: Minimum to complete estate plans, updates.

• Approach: Empathetic, thorough consultations.

Ready to Prepare?

Don't wait for 2026 changes to limit your options. Complete your checklist before December 31.

Contact Greene Law Firm, P.C., today. Call 415-905-0215 (San Francisco) or 205-746-2465 (Birmingham), or email jay@greenelawfirm.com—free initial chats available.

About the Author Attorney Jay Patrick Greene, CPA, founded Greene Law Firm, P.C. Licensed in California, Alabama, and Florida, he has over 15 years in wills, trusts, probate, elder law, and asset protection.

For more information, visit: https://greenelawfirm.com

Statements in Compliance State Rules of Professional Conduct: This material is only for general information and is not considered legal advice. Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes. No representation is made that the quality of our legal services is greater or less than that of other lawyers. Please consult a lawyer licensed in your state for legal advice about your specific situation.