Q: Inheritance, on Medi-cal in California.
I'm over 58years old have cancer and on medi-cal. Medi-cal is paying for all my medical needs. A friend died and left me $23,000. If I accept this money will I be dropped from medi-cal? I can't afford to be dropped because I will die if I don't get treatment, there is no cure for the cancer I have and the meds are expensive just for one medication it cost $160,000 a year. Yes I do live in California. Thanks.
A: It would depend upon your age, exactly what type of benefits you are receiving and how much money your friend left you. It is a large amount, you can often set up a supplemental needs trust to protect your benefits. Some times, you simply need to appropriately spend down the money before the end of the month you receive the funds. You should consult with an elder law attorney near where you live. Your question shows you are from New Mexico, but I'm assuming that is a mistake as you must be a CA resident to receive CA Medi-Cal benefits.
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