Medicaid / MassHealth Planning

Eligibility & Asset Protection

The attorneys of Mulvena Winston have been providing Medicaid and other public benefits eligibility advice and counseling to thousands of individuals and families for decades. Together, our team combines to create a unique elder law, disability, and estate planning firm that not only advises clients regarding Medicaid eligibility for nursing home care, but also counsels individuals and families regarding myriad public benefit programs dedicated to keeping and supporting an individual at home or in an alternative community setting.

Our attorneys are nationally recognized authorities on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program rules. We frequently receive referrals from attorneys and other professionals to resolve matters involving eligibility and denial of important benefits.

We assist with applications and represent claimants in appeals and other ongoing legal actions before the Massachusetts Office of Medicaid, Social Security Administration, Veterans Administration, and a number of state and federal service agencies such as the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (DMH) and the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS).

Social Security and Public Benefit Solutions

The rules and regulations surrounding public benefits continually change and can make qualifying seem difficult and overwhelming. Applying for and retaining government benefits can be a complex task that requires a keen understanding of program requirements, including allowable income and assets levels, penalties for property gifting, allowable exemptions for property transfers, use of trusts, and other options that can be used to achieve and maintain eligibility. A lack of proper analysis and legal representation can often jeopardize eligibility, causing a delay, or worse, denial of benefits. Even when errors have previously been made, we excel in working out solutions to reestablish or create eligibility.

Innovative Guidance For The Following:

• Medicaid (MassHealth and CommonHealth)
• Medicare
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
• Social Security Retirement, Survivors, and Dependents Insurance
• Veteran’s Aid & Attendance and other VA benefits
• Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)
• Social Security Administration (SSA)
• Veterans Administration (VA)
• Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (DMH)
• Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS)

We provide advice for current eligibility or future planning. We can assist in preparation of the application from the initial claim through the administrative hearing procedure, as well as court appeals. Our expertise and familiarity with agency procedures often enables us to streamline the process and obtain positive results in a relatively timely manner.

The Mulvena Winston Advantage 

Our attorneys have helped thousands gain access to a wide range of benefits from national organizations and local community programs. Our team is dedicated to help people navigate the complex public benefits system, advocate for their rights, and ensure that they receive the benefits they need to live full and independent lives.