As we age, planning for the future becomes more than just a financial decision—it becomes a deeply personal one. For California residents, the cost of long-term care can place significant strain on families, making proactive elder law and Medi-Cal planning an essential part of any comprehensive estate strategy.

At the Estate Planning and Elder Law Offices of John D. Laughton in Monterey, we work with individuals and families to preserve assets, protect loved ones, and prepare for the high costs of aging with dignity.

The True Cost of Long-Term Care in California

While Medicare covers many medical expenses for those over 65, it does not pay for long-term custodial care—whether in a nursing home or at home with the help of a health aide. That gap in coverage often catches families off guard.

• In Monterey County, nursing home care can cost upwards of $100,000 per year.
• Home health aides may cost $50,000 annually, depending on level of need.
• These figures are only expected to rise in the coming years.

For many families, these numbers are unsustainable without careful planning.

What Medi-Cal Covers—And How to Qualify

Unlike Medicare, Medi-Cal can help cover long-term care costs—but only for those who meet strict financial eligibility requirements. Currently, California’s asset limit for Medi-Cal eligibility is just $2,000 for an individual.

However, not all assets count toward that limit. Your primary residence, for example, is considered an exempt asset under most conditions. Other strategies—such as using irrevocable trusts, strategic gifting, or converting countable assets into non-countable ones—can help you qualify without giving up everything you’ve worked for.

But beware: Medi-Cal has a 30-month look-back period. Transferring or giving away assets too close to applying can result in delayed eligibility and penalties.

Why Early Planning Matters

Elder law planning isn’t just for those in crisis. It’s for anyone who wants to:

• Protect their home and savings from being spent on nursing care
• Ensure their spouse or family is financially secure
• Understand the differences between Medicare, Medi-Cal, and private pay options
• Plan for the possibility of in-home assistance or facility-based care

With early action, you can create a long-term care strategy that aligns with your values and secures your peace of mind.

Work with a Monterey Elder Law Attorney You Can Trust

At the Estate Planning and Elder Law Offices of John D. Laughton, we help clients across Monterey and surrounding communities understand their Medi-Cal options, navigate complex eligibility rules, and implement proactive legal strategies that protect what matters most.



Whether you're preparing for the future or facing immediate long-term care concerns, we're here to guide you every step of the way.