Adding adult child to deed

[mpatamia]

Here's the situation. My mother-in-law is currently in a nursing home (via medicaid) and has been diagnosed with a terminal heart condition. My father-in-law still lives in his home, but is starting dialysis (via the VA/medicare). The house is in his name first, MIL listed second on the deed. The nursing home told us that the state has claims to the house if FIL passes away first. The title would be transferred to MIL and upon her death the state would claim the house in an attempt to absorb expenses.

A friend told my husband that if we add his name to the deed, he would also be a co-owner, thereby stopping the state from claiming rights to the house in the event of MIL's death.

Any suggestions? (By the way, we're in Florida.)

[aaron]

Your father should consult with an estate planning lawyer who is experienced with Medicaid planning. You may be able to locate one through the NAELA directory.

Sometimes, when done wrong, self-help transfers can allow the government to take more of an asset than would otherwise have been the case.