👉Get started on your estate plan—watch our, on-demand workshop: https://www.daytonestateplanninglaw.com/how-to-not-go-broke-in-a-nursing-home-even-if-you-think-its-too-late/

Ted Gudorf, a board-certified estate planning attorney, breaks down common myths about irrevocable trusts and their role in Medicaid planning. He explains that these trusts don’t hand control to children but instead safeguard assets and preserve independence. Using real-life examples, Gudorf shows how proper trust planning can shield families from nursing home costs while ensuring their wishes are carried out. He also addresses concerns about managing a trust and stresses the importance of planning early to avoid Medicaid’s five-year look-back penalties.

Takeaways

• An irrevocable trust protects your independence and assets.
• Your children do not own your assets in an irrevocable trust.
• Planning ahead is crucial for effective asset protection.
• You can control the trust through your initial instructions.
• Professional trustees can provide neutrality and peace of mind.
• The five-year look-back period is critical in Medicaid planning.
• Transferring assets directly to children can expose them to risks.
• Trusts can include specific instructions for asset management.
• Ohio law protects trust assets from Medicaid estate recovery.
• Smart estate planning preserves your legacy and dignity.

Resources:

• Gudorf Law Group
• The Ohio Estate Planning Guide - Free Book
• Gudorf Law: What We Do and How We Help Webinar
• Don't Go Broke in Nursing Home Workshop
• When a Loved One Dies: A Legal Guide - Free Book
• Subscribe on YouTube