Medicaid Asset Protection Trust

Understand how a MAPT works, who needs one, and how to get started — from 1-800-MEDIGAP.

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Quick answer

A Medicaid asset protection trust is an irrevocable trust that legally removes assets from your name so Medicaid doesn't count them for long-term care eligibility. Assets must be transferred at least 5 years before applying, per the 5-year look-back. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for help.

A Medicaid asset protection trust (MAPT) is one of the most powerful legal tools for protecting your home and savings from the high cost of long-term care.

How does a Medicaid asset protection trust work?

A Medicaid asset protection trust is an irrevocable trust you fund with assets like your home, savings, and investments. Once transferred, those assets are no longer in your name, so Medicaid won't count them when deciding if you qualify for long-term care coverage. You name a trustee — usually an adult child — and can keep the right to live in your home and receive any trust income. The catch is the 5-year look-back: assets must be in the trust for at least 60 months before you apply to be fully protected. KFF reports Medicaid pays for the majority of U.S. nursing home residents.

Is a MAPT right for you?

A MAPT makes the most sense if you're healthy, planning years ahead, and want to preserve your home or savings for heirs while keeping the option of Medicaid coverage later. It's less useful if you may need care within 5 years, or if your assets are mostly in IRAs and 401(k)s, which are taxed when moved. Because the trust is irrevocable, you must be comfortable giving up control of the principal. Everyone's situation differs — call 1-800-MEDIGAP to talk through whether a MAPT fits your plan and how it coordinates with your Medicare and Medigap coverage.

More on Medicaid & LTC Planning

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Medicaid asset protection trust in simple terms?+

It's an irrevocable trust that holds your assets so Medicaid doesn't count them when you apply for long-term care help. You give up ownership and control of the principal in exchange for protecting it from nursing home spend-down, as long as it's funded at least 5 years before you apply.

How early should I create a MAPT?+

Ideally 5 or more years before you expect to need long-term care, because of Medicaid's 5-year look-back. Many people set one up in their late 60s or early 70s while healthy. The sooner you plan, the more assets clear the look-back window and become fully protected.

Can I undo a Medicaid asset protection trust?+

Not freely — a MAPT is irrevocable, which is what makes it protect assets from Medicaid. Some trusts allow limited changes through specific provisions, but you generally cannot reclaim the principal. That's the trade-off, so it's important to fund a MAPT only with assets you won't need to spend yourself.

Does a MAPT affect my Medicare or Medigap?+

No. A MAPT addresses long-term care costs through Medicaid and does not change your Medicare or Medigap benefits, which cover doctors, hospitals, and short rehab stays. The two work together: Medicare and Medigap handle medical care, while the MAPT protects assets from long-term custodial care costs.

Who should I talk to about setting up a MAPT?+

Start with 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) to review your overall senior coverage, then work with a qualified elder law attorney to draft and fund the trust. Because a MAPT is irrevocable and state rules vary, professional legal guidance is essential before you transfer any assets.

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