One of the most common and costly misconceptions about Medicaid is the belief that individuals and families must spend down all of their assets before they can qualify. For families who have worked hard, saved carefully, and planned responsibly, this can feel not only discouraging—but devastating.
The good news is this: qualifying for Medicaid does not have to mean losing everything.
A properly structured trust can help individuals become eligible for Medicaid without exhausting their life savings, while still allowing those funds to be used in ways that meaningfully improve quality of life. That’s where Alabama Family Trust (AFT) comes in.
Jennifer Thomas, True Link Administrator with Alabama Family Trust, understands this reality deeply. Before joining AFT, she worked as a Medicaid manager and saw the consequences of poor planning every day.
“I worked with many families who had assets but didn’t know there was another option besides spending everything down,” Jennifer explains. “I often referred them to Alabama Family Trust, where they could place their assets into a trust and help their loved ones become eligible for Medicaid.”
By placing assets into the Alabama Family Trust, families may be able to protect those resources while helping a loved one qualify for Medicaid benefits. Once in the trust, funds can be used for services and items that Medicaid does not cover—but that greatly enhance a beneficiary’s comfort and dignity.
These may include necessities such as a wheelchair to improve mobility, specialized equipment, or even a private room in a nursing home. These quality-of-life supports can make a profound difference in daily living and overall well-being.
Just as importantly, using a trust helps ease the financial and emotional strain on families.
“Putting assets in the trust doesn’t just benefit the beneficiary,” Jennifer says. “It also helps families by lifting a tremendous financial burden and giving them peace of mind.”
At Alabama Family Trust, our mission is to help families plan wisely — protecting assets, preserving dignity, and ensuring access to essential care. If you or someone you love is facing long-term care needs or Medicaid eligibility questions, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Come see us at Alabama Family Trust. We’re here to help you protect what matters most.