Selling a home is not a way to avoid Medicaid estate recovery. If Medicaid benefits or long-term-care costs are part of your situation, speak with Utah Medicaid, the Office of Recovery Services, and a qualified elder-law attorney before signing a sale agreement or giving away proceeds.
Get advice before making a property decision
Utah may seek repayment of certain Medicaid costs from an estate, including real estate. A home that is excluded when eligibility is determined is not automatically protected from estate recovery. Protections can apply for a surviving spouse, certain children, and other qualifying circumstances. The details matter; do not assume that recovery is inevitable or that a quick sale eliminates it. See Utah’s official estate-recovery guidance.
Be careful with transfers and gifts
Selling for less than fair market value or giving away assets can affect eligibility for Medicaid long-term services and supports. Federal guidance describes a five-year look-back period for certain transfers. Before selling, ask an independent adviser how the sale price, proceeds, existing claims, and your specific benefits would be treated. See Medicaid’s eligibility guidance.
Our role is limited to a property purchase
New Leaf Home Buyers is a home-buying business, not a Medicaid planning service or law firm. We do not offer asset-protection strategies or promise that a sale will protect benefits, avoid liens, or preserve an inheritance. If your independent advisers determine that selling fits your circumstances, you can compare a written purchase offer with your other options.
This page provides general information, not legal, tax, or benefits advice. Your circumstances require individual review.
