Waco Texas Elder Law Attorney

Serving Clients In Need Of Medicaid Benefits And More

Rainey & Rainey was co-founded by an elder law attorney looking to establish an attorney-client relationship where the client felt they were getting the attention and care they deserved. From estate planning, personal injury of an older or disabled person matters pertaining to nursing homes, or obtaining Medicaid benefits, Elisa Rainey and the team at our law firm believe in providing the utmost service regarding legal matters affecting the elders in our community.

If you or your loved one need assistance navigating elder law matters, navigating health care claims, or qualifying for Medicaid benefits, contact the elder law lawyers at Rainey & Rainey.

Explore our legal services by contacting the elder law office at (254) 457-5083.

Understanding Elder Law in Texas

At Rainey & Rainey, Attorneys at Law, LP, we work to provide clear guidance on the essential aspects of elder law in Texas. Elder law encompasses a wide range of legal needs for seniors and their families, focusing on areas such as long-term health care, asset protection, and legal planning for future needs. Our team offers guidance on Medicaid planning, nursing home and long-term care planning, guardianship, incapacity planning, and estate planning.

Nursing Home and Long-Term Care Planning

Planning for potential nursing home costs and other long-term care expenses is critical for many families. Our firm assists in preparing financially for these costs by developing strategies that protect assets while ensuring access to necessary care. We provide insights into available long-term care options, from home care to nursing facilities, helping clients make informed choices. Additionally, we review nursing home contracts to protect client’s rights and ensure fair terms, providing peace of mind when choosing a care facility.

Guardianship and Incapacity Planning

In cases where a loved one can no longer make decisions independently, establishing legal guardianship may be necessary. Our team helps clients navigate the guardianship process, ensuring that a trusted individual is there to make crucial choices when required. Setting up a durable power of attorney allows clients to designate someone to handle financial and health-related matters if they become incapacitated. Additionally, we assist with health care directives, which specify clients’ wishes for medical care, helping reduce stress and uncertainty during critical times.

Estate Planning for Seniors

Estate planning offers a way to clearly outline asset distribution wishes, often simplifying matters for families. We assist clients in drafting wills, establishing trusts, and navigating the probate process in Texas, ensuring that assets are distributed according to clients’ intentions. Our estate planning services also work to minimize taxes and associated fees, preserving wealth for future generations.

Why Do I Need A Full Estate Plan? Shouldn’t A Will Suffice?

A Last Will and Testament is an essential legal document in every estate planning discussion. A Texas elder law attorney can determine the proper way to write the will representing your true interests and bequests at your death.

However, a Will is often not inclusive enough to finalize a complete estate planning strategy. You should consider other documents, such as a Living Will, a Designation of Agent for the disposition of your remains, and a Declaration of Guardianship if you or a court finds you need one.

Medicaid Planning

Medicaid planning is essential for those who may require assistance covering long-term care costs. Qualifying for Medicaid involves meeting specific financial and medical criteria, which can be challenging to navigate. We help clients understand eligibility requirements, structure assets to protect financial security, and complete Medicaid applications smoothly, avoiding common delays and ensuring access to benefits when needed.

How Do I Qualify For Medicaid Benefits?

As part of our elder law services, Rainey & Rainey can help our clients determine if they are able to qualify for Medicaid or nursing home benefits at the time of their initial consultation. If not, our experienced elder law attorneys assist you through allocating your assets in order to access the available benefits lawfully, and in the most efficient manner.

What Is A “Lady Bird” Deed?

A Lady Bird Deed, also known as an Enhanced Life Estate Deed, can be set up to transfer your real property to your children immediately upon your death. Texas was one of the first states to institute this type of deed.

When establishing an Enhanced Life Estate Deed, you keep all your property rights until you pass away, when the ownership is immediately to your children. You can change the beneficiary of the deed at any time until the property is transferred. This approach can give you peace of mind, knowing your assets are protected, as well as:

• preserve your right to sell/mortgage the property while alive,
• protect the parcel from your heirs’ creditors during your lifetime,
• prevent gift tax during transfer,
• and preserve your ability to qualify for Medicaid and to avoid payback demand.

What Other Cases Require The Legal Assistance Of An Elder Law Attorney?

Elder law is a very specialized field in the legal realm. Elder law attorneys handle various cases with several different requirements, not the same. Our law firm takes the fair treatment of the senior citizens in our community very seriously. And as such, we are proud to be able to help them with the following, in addition to Medicaid planning, Lady Bird deeds, and last wills:

• Qualified Income/Miller Trusts
• Asset Protection
• Benefits Planning
• Special Needs Planning
• Powers of Attorney
• Guardianship
• Probate
• and More.

We believe the most important thing we provide at our law firm is maintaining our client’s dignity, independence, and legal rights in all areas of elder law.

Get The Best You Deserve At Rainey & Rainey

Our trusted firm ensures you never have to worry about tomorrow for yourself, your elder loved ones, or your loved ones with special needs. Have the essential discussions today with any of our experienced elder law attorneys so that you can relax knowing that your completed and comprehensive estate plan will take care of your family long after you’re gone.

Contact Rainey & Rainey, Attorneys at Law LP, today by calling (254) 751-8644 and scheduling an appointment for an initial consultation. Our elder law attorneys are eager to help you or the senior citizens in your life with all of their elder law needs.