The difference between a Revocable Trust and a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust

A revocable trust and a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT) serve different purposes and are designed for different situations. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Revocable Trust:
   • Flexibility: A revocable trust, also known as a living trust, allows the grantor (the person creating the trust) to maintain control over the assets placed in the trust. The grantor can modify, amend, or revoke the trust at any time during their lifetime.
   • Estate Planning: The primary purpose of a revocable trust is often estate planning. It helps to avoid probate, which is the legal process of validating a will. By placing assets in a revocable trust, they can pass directly to the beneficiaries without going through probate, which can be time-consuming and costly.
   • No Medicaid Protection: While a revocable trust can be a valuable tool for managing assets and simplifying the transfer of wealth, it does not provide protection against Medicaid eligibility requirements. Medicaid considers assets in a revocable trust as countable assets when determining eligibility for long-term care benefits.
2. Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT):
   • Irrevocability: A Medicaid Asset Protection Trust is irrevocable, meaning that once assets are transferred into the trust, the grantor typically cannot modify or revoke the trust. This is a crucial feature for Medicaid planning because it removes assets from the grantor’s estate for Medicaid eligibility purposes.
   • Medicaid Planning: The primary purpose of a MAPT is to protect assets from being counted for Medicaid eligibility. Medicaid has strict income and asset limits for individuals seeking long-term care benefits. By placing assets in an irrevocable trust, the grantor may create a situation where those assets are not considered when determining Medicaid eligibility.
   • Look-Back Period: Medicaid has a “look-back period” during which it reviews the transfer of assets. Transferring assets into a MAPT well in advance of needing Medicaid benefits is crucial to avoid penalties.

In summary, a revocable trust is more focused on estate planning and maintaining flexibility, while a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust is specifically designed to help individuals qualify for Medicaid benefits by protecting assets from being counted in determining eligibility. Each type of trust serves a distinct purpose, and the choice between them depends on the individual’s goals and circumstances. It’s important to consult with legal and financial professionals when considering either trust to ensure it aligns with your specific needs and objectives.

To learn more about estate planning and elder law, visit Estate and Elder Planning by David Wingate at www.davidwingate.com. For an Initial Consultation, call (301) 663-9230. We can assist you with powers of attorneys, living wills, wills, trusts, Medicaid planning, and asset protection. With office locations in Frederick, Washington, and Montgomery Counties, Maryland, we are here to provide you with peace of mind.

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