Call Now (844) 953-7739

Medicaid Spend Down and Funeral Prepayment

A Medicaid spend down can include prepaying funeral expenses through an irrevocable contract, which sets aside funds for funeral and burial costs. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.
Please note: This page provides general information only and is not legal or financial advice. Medicaid rules change and vary by situation, so consult a qualified elder law attorney or the New Jersey Medicaid program before making decisions.

How Prepaying Funeral Expenses Can Help Qualify You for Medicaid

Prepaying for funeral expenses is a strategy known as a “spend down.” It allows you to set aside funds to help reduce your countable assets, making you eligible for Medicaid.

How It Works:

  •  You can establish an irrevocable contract to prepay funeral and burial costs.
  • These prepaid funds are considered exempt assets and will not be included in your Medicaid eligibility calculation.
  • Funds can be used for a variety of funeral services, such as embalming, clothing, flowers, and more.

Planning Ahead:

  • This plan not only helps protect your assets but also ensures that your family has peace of mind and will not have to make difficult decisions during a difficult time.

State-Specific Details:

  • It’s important to work with a funeral director experienced in Medicaid spend down to confirm that funeral expenses are eligible for the spend down process.
  • Medicaid caseworkers may review contracts to ensure they are fully funded.

How to Get Started:

  • If you’re ready to plan ahead and protect your legacy, schedule a consultation with us to learn more about how you can prepay for funeral expenses.

How Funeral Prepayment Fits a Spend Down

Jersey Memorial Group was founded in 2009 and is privately owned by David Lee Hernandez, Jr. and his wife Stacey. It is the largest network of privately owned funeral homes in New Jersey, uniting trusted family firms, several serving their communities since the 1800s, and operating its own crematory with a documented identification and tracking process for every individual in our care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can prepaying funeral expenses help with Medicaid?

Prepaying funeral and burial costs through an irrevocable contract can move countable assets into a set-aside purpose, which some families use as part of a Medicaid spend down. Confirm your situation with an elder law attorney.
An irrevocable funeral contract sets aside funds for funeral expenses that cannot later be withdrawn for other uses. The specific rules and limits should be reviewed with a qualified professional.
To discuss pre-planning options, call (844) 953-7739, and consult an elder law attorney for advice on Medicaid.