Medi-Cal Estate Recovery Process

One of the topics we always discuss during Medi-Cal planning is Estate Recovery by the State of California after a client passes. Basically, the state wants to recover any monies that were spent on the client’s care under Medi-Cal. 

As we plan for our client and their unique circumstances, recovery is always part of the equation and when done properly there are no assets left for the state to collect. This is not only in the planning but the family’s ability to follow the instructions given.

Even though we have planned for recovery and there are no assets to collect we still have to go through the process, providing the information the state asks for. Death Certificates of client and spouse, bank statement that covers date of death and any receipts for final expenses for the remains. In the case of a married couple, there is no recovery until both have passed, but the recovery process must still be dealt with at each spouse’s death.

As our final service to the client, Planning For Seniors completes the entire recovery process for them. We will send a letter to the family requesting the above information. Once the information is received, the Death Certificate is sent to the State Recovery Department which initiates the recovery process. A recovery packet will be sent to us and possibly the family member as well. We fill out any forms and send back to the State along with the other information requested. The last step of recovery is sending the final notice to family. We consider it an honor to have been a part of the journey with your loved one. (275)