How have the rules changed concerning “immediate annuities” owned by a Medicaid applicant?
The rules concerning Medicaid eligibility for an applicant or spouse of the applicant who owns an “immediate annuity” (one that is paying out a fixed monthly or yearly sum for a specified period of time) have changed dramatically. The changes are the combined result of the 2005 Deficit Reduction Act (effective as of February 8, 2006) and proposed changes to the Connecticut Uniform Policy Manual (“UPM”). The UPM is the Manual used to administer the Connecticut Medicaid program. Here are some of the changes.
- Annuities purchased or annuitized after February 8, 2006 must be irrevocable, non-assignable, and actuarially sound.
- Connecticut contends that all annuities, whether purchased or annuitized before or after February 8, 2006, must name the State as the primary beneficiary to the extent of Medicaid benefits actually paid out by the State. Although this position may violate federal law, no Court yet has ruled on the issue.
- Connecticut contends that any immediate annuity owned by a Medicaid applicant is treated both as a source of income for the Medicaid applicant, and, as well, an asset owned by the applicant. Although this position may violate federal law, no Court yet has ruled on the issue.
If there is a reasonable possibility a family member will apply for Medicaid and the applicant or the applicant’s spouse either owns an annuity or is thinking of purchasing one, contact us for a full discussion of the new Medicaid annuity rules and how they may impact your family.