but with the right guidance, you can protect what you've built and ensure both spouses remain financially stable.
Average skilled nursing care cost in Florida
One with care needs, one still living at home with ongoing expenses
Medicaid protections for couples are NOT automatic—they must be applied correctly
In Florida, skilled nursing care can cost $10,000–$12,000 per month. For couples, this creates an immediate imbalance—one spouse has increased care needs while the other still has living expenses, bills, and a life to maintain.
Trying to cover both without a plan can quickly drain everything you've built.
When one spouse remains at home, Medicaid provides protections. This spouse is often referred to as the "community spouse."
Under Florida Medicaid rules, the community spouse may be allowed to:
- Keep the primary residence
- Retain a portion of assets
- Maintain income for living expenses
The most common—and costly—mistake is deciding: "We'll just pay privately for now."
With the right guidance, couples may be able to achieve outcomes that feel out of reach—but are more attainable than most people realize.
Qualify for Medicaid sooner than expected—even if you've been told you're over income or over assets
Protect a meaningful portion of the assets you've worked a lifetime to build
Ensure the at-home spouse remains financially stable and can maintain their quality of life
Structure income in a way that supports both spouses throughout the care journey
Every situation is different—but one thing is consistent: Planning early creates more options.
Many couples believe they've "missed the window." But in reality, planning may still be possible—even after admission.
Depending on timing and structure, there may still be meaningful opportunities to act:
Strategically reposition assets to align with Medicaid eligibility requirements
Lower ongoing private-pay expenses that are draining your savings
Create a clear path toward Medicaid coverage for long-term care
One of the hardest parts of this situation is emotional. The spouse at home is often left managing finances alone, facing uncertainty, and worried about outliving their resources.
Managing finances alone for the first time—while also worrying about a spouse's care—is one of the most stressful situations a person can face.
Statistically, many spouses—especially wives—live years longer on their own. Which makes protecting financial stability even more critical.
Hilary specializes in helping Florida couples navigate the complexities of long-term care Medicaid. Her clients often come in believing they have no options—and leave with a clear, actionable plan.
Expert guidance through Florida's long-term care Medicaid system for couples
Help couples qualify even when they've been told they are over income or over assets
Protect assets while ensuring the care your spouse needs is fully covered. Legal Advise and documents needed by an Attorney but Hilary can hand-hold you though the steps to ensure Medicaid compliance in completing the advice of the attorney
Hilary Hayes, CSA
Certified Senior Advisor
If your spouse is in—or may soon need—skilled nursing care, don't wait until options become limited.
In one conversation, you can gain clarity on:
- What you can protect
- What your next steps should be
- How to avoid costly mistakes
No obligation. No pressure. Just clarity.
Florida Medicaid rules for couples are complex—