What is Medicaid Spend Down and How Does It Work for the Nursing Home?

Eligibility for Medicaid to help pay nursing home bills requires individuals to meet the guidelines for the program they are applying. Basically, there are three such guidelines; proof of medical necessity for long-term care, limited assets, and insufficient income. If the assets or income exceed the allowed amounts, the individual may not initially qualify, but there are ways to work with the determined spend down. This is the common phrase used in the qualification process.

It is important to have a comprehensive understanding of Medicaid rules and how to maximize the concept of “spend down,” before applying. For those applicants not initially qualifying financially, a qualification plan is essential. This guide will provide a simplified analysis of what a spend down in the state of Missouri entails, how it works, and how to work within the underlying rules.


*This blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. The use of the Paths Law Firm website does not constitute a client-lawyer relationship.

What is a Spend Down?

One must first accurately understand the spend down concept. Very basically, it means what has to be properly spent to reach the monetary limitations for Medicaid. When actually planning, spend down refers to a financial strategy to help qualify for Medicaid despite not initially qualifying due to excess assets or income.

There are federal and state statutes, regulations, and rules related to the application process. There are cases that also impact this process. In order to utilize a spend down in the application process, the end result proves the applicant’s income and assets are insufficient to provide proper care.

There are federal laws that apply to each state, but states also have their own. The states cannot be more liberal than federal law but can be more restrictive. There are many variations among the states in the laws and the interpretation and application of them when it comes to spend down eligibility. Even states next to each other may vary widely, for example in Kansas a community spouse’s retirement accounts are not included when determining a married person’s eligibility, but in Missouri, such are included in the determination. There are many other differences, as well.

It is important to work within the laws and rules for the state in which the nursing home is located before proceeding.

medicaid spend down rules

How Does a Spend Down Work?

In Missouri, the institutionalized spouse or the unmarried individual must simply provide evidence their monthly income is lower than the cost of the medical care.

Rules of a Spend Down

The rules in Missouri for a spend down revolve around a set limit of $5,000 for countable assets or resources for the person requesting Medicaid. Very basically if the applicant’s assets exceed $5,000, they are considered “over-resourced” and therefore not qualified. But it is important to know the law in order to utilize it.

1. Married Couples Both Applying

With married couples, it is possible to move forward with a resource limit of $10,000 for the combined countable assets. Individual applicants do not get to combine their assets with anyone else in their family even if they are residing in the same household. It is also important to note, there are variations as to what is permitted and what is not depending on the Medicaid program for which the couple is applying. However, for the regular Medicaid program, the set limit is $5,000 per individual, thus allowing for a married couple to have $10,000.

2. Married Couples with One Applicant

Another variation, and more common, is when one spouse is applying for Medicaid. This person is referred to as the institutionalized spouse. The spouse not applying for Medicaid, and not in a nursing home is referred to as the Community Spouse. In this scenario in Missouri, all assets owned by both or either spouse are combined and counted.ÂThis is true even though only one person is applying. If the application is for the nursing home Medicaid program, the institutionalized spouse is allowed to no more than $5,000 in total value of countable assets.

The community spouse is allowed to keep one-half of the couple’s assets, with certain limitations and considerations. The half referenced can be at least a minimum, but not to exceed a maximum. The amount the Community Spouse is allowed is referred to as the Community Spouse Resource Allowance or often abbreviated CSRA. The minimum CSRA is currently $25,728. The current maximum is $128,640.

Example One: If the couple’s combined countable assets total $100,000. The CSRA is $50,000. In this example, the Institutionalized Spouse is considered to have $50,000 but is only allowed $5,000. Thus, the spend-down is $45,000.

Example Two: If the couple’s combined countable assets total $40,000, the minimum CSRA of $25,728 is attributed to the Community Spouse. After deducting the Institutionalized Spouse’s $5,000 from the remainder, the spend down is $9,272.

Example Three: If the couples combined countable assets total $350,000, this doesn’t change the maximum CSRA, so the Community Spouse is attributed $128,640, with the remainder attributed to the Institutionalized Spouse. This would require a spend down of $216,360. This emphasizes the importance of understanding the laws as proper use will likely result in preserving the $216,360 and not actually spending it.

Spend Down Exemptions

When it comes to qualifying for Medicaid, there has to be a detailed assessment of the individual’s asset or income spend down. This means the individual has to show they have spent a certain amount of their income and/or assets based on medical fees or relevant expenses. However, evidence of other debt such as mortgage payments or credit card payments will affect the financial situation.

As for healthcare costs, there are exemptions built into the process such as:

* Medical Fees (Past or Present)

* Transportation Costs for Medical Services

* Prescriptions/Medical Equipment

* Home Improvement Costs for Medical Reasons (i.e., Chairlift)

These are key details to think about when it comes to understanding what the exemptions are when applying and what to account for.

Limits of a Spend Down

The spend down amount is the difference between an individual or couple’s income and the limit set forth for Medicaid eligibility. This is determined by each state over one to six months. Depending on the state, bills or receipts will likely be required by the Medicaid caseworker to evidence the expenses. This is not usually an issue when applying for nursing home Medicaid as few individuals or couples have sufficient income to pay for the nursing home without accessing their assets.

spend down

1. Income Spend Down

The idea of an income spend down is to look at the expenses a person is paying for based on their underlying income. For example, let’s assume a person brings in $1,000 per month, while the income limit is set at $500 per month. In this case, it is essential to show there is a $500 spend down before applying for Medicaid to be permitted to move forward with the application. This can be done by showing a certain portion of the income was spent on the person’s medical expenses such as prescriptions, home improvement changes, and/or other relevant costs. Again, this is not usually an issue when nursing home expenses are being incurred.

2. Asset Spend Down

It can be quite difficult to determine if an individual is over the asset limit with all of the exempt and non-exempt assets as defined by Medicaid along with the extensive rules to which an application must adhere. Medicaid has set asset limits, depending on the state in which the applicant resides. It is important to note this does not include assets such as the primary home and/or vehicle. A primary home and or vehicle are considered to be exempt assets and are not factored into the equation. This does not mean those assets are not subject to estate recovery after the applicant dies. It also does not mean the applicant will be allowed enough income to maintain those assets, such as for insurance, taxes, or utilities. It simply means they are not counted with the other assets when determining qualification.

It may not affect too many applicants, but the home’s equity is limited to $595,000. Also, individuals are not required to count personal belongings such as clothes and/or other relevant items in use.

It is important to understand what a countable asset is to ensure assets are properly accounted for. A countable asset can be something as simple as money in a savings account, a second property generating rental income, or other various investments. See more on Medicaid Asset Limits here.

spending down assets

How to Calculate a Spend Down

The Medicaid spend down program or Medical Assistance, is for medical needs and not necessarily referring to the nursing home. The nursing home program is referred to as Vendor Benefits. Medical Assistance is also referred to as Medicaid’s medically needy program. The spend down amount can be calculated by taking the difference between the Medicaid eligibility limit and the applicant’s income, based on the state in which the applicant resides. Depending on the state, there may be an option to pay a monthly premium to Medicaid for the amount over the Medicaid spend down amount.

In general, it is recommended to speak to an experienced Missouri Medicaid Lawyer to learn more about the available options and to ensure all established guidelines are being met. 

calculated spend down amount

Spending Down Assets to Become Eligible

Qualifying for the Medicaid program is determined by demonstrating the eligible applicant meets all the requirements defined for the program to which making the application. If the individual’s income exceeds the Medicaid income limits for Medical Assistance, it will be necessary to spend down income and maybe assets. The Medical Assistance programs require personally spending a certain amount of income and/or assets on eligible medical costs, usually monthly. The Vendor Benefits program usually requires all income paid to the nursing home, less any health care premiums, and a $50 personal needs allowance.

Even though the above may seem daunting, there are also ways to preserve income through the anti-spousal impoverishment rules or certain income trusts. An attorney experienced practicing with Medicaid can assist with the most asset and income preservation, qualification, and the application for the appropriate Medicaid program.

How Often Do I Need to Re-Qualify?

Medicaid re-qualification in the state of Missouri will be required within each anniversary year from the first application. However, due to the COVID response, Medicaid is currently only required every two years. Re-qualifying means income and assets must be re-evaluated to ensure applicants still qualify and if necessary, come up with a relevant spend down to move forward with the coverage. There are set spend down periods that must be taken into consideration with regulations to be adhered to each time to re-qualify.

spend down amount

Eligible Expenses 

The eligible expenses to qualify are the most important part of the spend down process when verifying eligibility for Medicaid. In general, an over-resourced Medicaid may spend, as long as fair value is received in return and transfers, such as gifts or selling assets for less than fair market value. This is why it is crucial to work with an experienced attorney. Gifting assets can be a violation of the Medicaid 5-year lookback period, which can result in Medicaid ineligibility for a set period of time. But don’t be afraid of this, there are a number of ways to actually utilize that 5-year lookback period to preserve assets.

So, what expenses can you claim in Missouri?

1. Home Improvements

These are any expenses associated with improving the house considered the residence. Since this is a non-countable asset, it is acceptable to move forward with medically related improvements and usually any other maintenance or improvement.

These can include:

  • Installing a Chairlift
  • Repairing the Roof
  • Improving the Plumbing
  • Setting Up a Handicap-Accessible Bathroom
  • Adding a Wheelchair Ramp
  • Building a Shed

Along the same lines, each applicant can exempt expenses spent on their vehicle. This can be for repairs done on the vehicle or even improvements such as repairs or upgrades. Please note, one vehicle per household will be exempt.

eligible spend down expenses

2. Uncovered Medical Devices

This can include any medical device being used to improve one’s medical condition and/or health. For example, eyeglasses, hearing aids, and/or dentures.

3. Debt

Unsecured debt, such as a credit card balance, is not taken into account when applying for Medicaid. If the debt is secured by an asset, such as a lien on a home, it will reduce the equity value of the home or excess countable resources can be used to pay down the debt, even on an exempt asset such as a vehicle or home. This can include something as simple as a mortgage loan, credit card debt, and/or car loan.

4. Caregiver Fees

Let’s assume the applicant is older in age and a caregiver is coming to the house for assistance. Even if the caregiver is a family member, they can be hired, and payments deducted as a valid expense. This is essential when it comes to making sure appropriate care is being offered to the applicant. This is the reasoning as to why it is a cost permissible by the Medicaid program. However, the pay has to be reasonable and based on established costs in the region. Also, such payments need to be evidenced by an agreement put in place before payments are made to the person.

5. Funeral Trust

In some cases, there can be an irrevocable preneed funeral plan, or a funeral trust set up by the applicant. The trust is a contract established to finance potential funeral/burial costs a person may have to deal with after the applicant dies. This can include things such as burial plots, caskets, and more.

The amount of money allowed for an irrevocable funeral trust depends on the state, however, in most cases this amount can be as much as $15,000 per spouse.

These are just some of the expenses a person can claim when it is time to apply for the Medicaid program. It’s highly recommended to go through all of these details with a credible financial expert and Elder Law Attorney to learn more about options.

asset income spend down

Third-Party Payments for a Spend Down

In some cases, third-party payments may be used for a spend down. This means the expenses being paid can be processed through a third-party and still be claimed. This is critical for those who are dealing with potential debt and may have a secondary financing option in place still acting as debt.

Look towards these options and make sure to include them in the spend down.

medicaid law

Final Thoughts

When it comes to applying for a spend down in Missouri, it’s essential to understand all financial options and if the rules are followed, much can be saved. Whether this has to do with an asset spend down or an income spend down, the goal is to account for everything. This includes all of the expenses paid out monthly.

If these details are adhered to, the application process will go more smoothly, and re-qualifying should be easier when the spend down period ends. This is key when it comes to maximizing options as an individual applicant or as a couple.

At Paths Elder Law, we understand how important it is to protect the family’s future, the future of the Community Spouse, and their children. We have almost 30 years of experience helping individuals and married couples with the Medicaid eligibility and application process. We have been very successful in mitigating issues related to Medicaid spend down. If you or someone you know needs help with the Medicaid planning process, contact Paths Elder Law. We are here to help you secure your future.

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Client Care Advisor

Amy L. Gonzales

Amy L. Gonzales

Client Care Advisor

Amy L. Gonzales

Amy is our Client Care Advisor and brings over 20 years of combined experience in healthcare and senior living. She has a passion for helping seniors and their families navigate the often-difficult next steps. Her role at Paths Law Firm includes assistance with placement services, for those needing senior living options, as well as client satisfaction and supporting the marketing efforts. She never tires of hearing the life stories of our clients and brings experience and compassion to wherever they are in their journey.
 
Amy attended the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. She was the Director of Sales for a home IV therapy and home care company, an Executive Director for an independent living community, and spent a season as a licensed realtor for both Missouri and Kansas. She has also worked for several years in assisted living and memory care. She co-authored a book called The MyDucks Personal Organizer, which is a tool to help individuals manage their medical, legal, personal, and legacy information. She spent several years as a speaker throughout Kansas City helping to educate and motivate people to get their “ducks in a row”!
 
She is blessed to be married to her husband, Ed, and they have a blended family with 5 grown children. Much of their time is now spent caring for their golden retrievers, enjoying time with family, and traveling whenever possible.

Legal Assistant

Mia G. Santora

Mia G. Santora

Legal Assistant

Mia G. Santora

Mia plays a key role as our dedicated Legal Assistant, collaborating closely with our paralegals on estate planning document preparation. She also supports our attorneys to ensure top-notch service for all our clients. In addition to her legal responsibilities, Mia supports our marketing team with client relations and is the Paths Membership Program coordinator. With a strong background in Project Management, Mia has gained valuable experience from diverse professionals across the country, having lived in Florida and California before joining our team. She graduated with honors from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in communications.
 
Mia is always eager to learn the intricacies of elder law and brings a positive attitude to her work. Outside of the office, she enjoys enriching her mind through reading and spending quality time with her two dogs.
 

Community Relations

Jeane M. Fracassa

Jeane M. Fracassa

Community Relations

Jeane M. Fracassa

Jeane Fracassa – a dedicated and accomplished professional who retired with an impressive 38-year service record from the Kansas City Missouri Police Department. Throughout her illustrious career, Jeane served as a Civian Supervisor in the Communications Unit, where she played a pivotal role in ensuring efficient and effective communication within the department.

Even in retirement, Jeane’s commitment to community service remains unwavering. Currently, she serves in various capacities within Community Relations at Paths Law Firm. Actively engaged in the Lee’s Summit and Overland Park communities, she proudly represents the law firm.

In all aspects of her life, Jeane Fracassa exemplifies the values of community, compassion, and family. Her commitment to making a difference and her love for exploration make her a remarkable individual, whose presence brightens the lives of those she encounters. Whether at work, with family, or during her travels, Jeane’s genuine care for others and her zest for life make her a truly remarkable and inspiring person.

Administrative Assistant

Laura E. Messer

Laura E. Messer

Administrative Assistant

Laura E. Messer

Laura is the Law Firm’s marketing assistant, supporting all marketing tasks, including managing calendars, researching upcoming events, updating marketing software and spreadsheets, and partnering with organizations to maintain relationships that benefit Paths Law Firm’s clients.  Laura is also the law firm’s professional photographer as she provides the professional photographs for the headshots, organizations, events, and networking.

Laura has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer.  She is also Adobe and Microsoft Certified.  She graduated from Columbia College, Columbia, Missouri with her Bachelor of Arts degree, Magna Cum Laude, in Behavioral Psychology (minors in Social Work and Criminal Justice), and her Photographic Craftsman degree from Professional Photographers of America. She is certified as a Qualified Mental Health Professional, Certified Gentle Teacher, Medicaid Billing Certified, Crisis Intervention Counselor, and a Missouri Notary.

Laura has been married more than 26 years and has a daughter and a son. She has four brothers, a niece, and a nephew. Her four spoiled pets that love her attention. A lot of Laura’s off time is spent taking photos and she is an internationally published photographer. Laura owns a studio on the historic Independence Square. 

Administrative Assistant

Holly D. Bramble

Holly D. Bramble

Administrative Assistant

Holly D. Bramble

Holly is our newest member of the administrative team. She is hardworking, has proven organizational skills and excellent communication skills. Holly has transitioned to the Estate Planning field from healthcare administration where she gained valuable knowledge that has contributed to her success here at Paths.

Holly enjoys spending time with loved ones, cheering for the Chiefs, and relaxing on the beach.

Administrative Assistant

Tressa L. Purdy

Tressa L. Purdy

Administrative Assistant

Tressa L. Purdy

Tressa has the important role of being a client’s initial point of contact as the law firm’s receptionist for all locations.  She also welcomes, assists, and cares for clients at the Lee’s Summit office. Additionally, she provides support in an administrative capacity for the attorneys, staff, and clients.  When you meet Tressa, the first quality many note is her readiness to be of assistance.

 

Tressa is a graduate of Park Hill High School with extensive administrative experience and executive level management. Tressa brings a stability and comfort to the law firm experience having worked in a variety of industries and having lived in six different major metropolitan cities.

 

Tressa has a daughter, two sons, and one grandchild.  In her free time, she enjoys her family and friends, loves being outdoors, gardening, bike riding and bird watching. Indoor hobbies include scrapbooking, painting cookies, and cheering on Chiefs football. She is a Kansas City native but enjoys traveling but is always happy to be back in her hometown.  

Attorney

Kathleen E. Overton

Kathleen E. Overton, Attorney

Attorney

Kathleen E. Overton

Kathleen Overton is an attorney and owner at Paths Law Firm. She has more than 17 years of experience advocating for those with special needs and navigating the state and federal agencies formed to help the disabled and elderly. At Paths Law Firm, Kathleen’s practice focuses on helping the elderly qualify for nursing home Medicaid, creating estate plans to protect beneficiaries, as well as a lot of time planning and forming businesses. Kathleen also enjoys helping clients form non-profit organizations and obtain 501(c)(3) tax exempt status.

 

After attending law school at the University of Oklahoma, Kathleen began representing clients before the Social Security Administration. Eventually her practice switched to federal court appeals and Kathleen spent years representing clients before the Eastern and Western District of Missouri, the District of Kansas, and the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Kathleen has since focused her practice on estate planning and elder law after watching clients struggle to find ways to financially care for loved ones with special needs or aging parents.

 

Kathleen lives in the Northland with her husband and four children. She spends her free time attending soccer matches and ballet performances with her children and starting endless home improvement projects with her husband. 

Medicaid paralegal

Tena K. Dooley

Tena K. Dooley

Medicaid Paralegal

Tena K. Dooley

Tena is a Medicaid Paralegal.  She is very meticulous and organized.  She works closely with the attorneys, clients, and State representatives. 

Tena has an associate in applied science and has over 20 years of office management experience. She has two daughters and one grandson.

Tena enjoys spending time with her family.  She enjoys everything outdoors and her hobbies include fishing and gardening.

PARALEGAL & ACCOUNTANT

Sydney R. Morris

Sydney R. Morris

PARALEGAL & ACCOUNTANT

Sydney R. Morris

Sydney is the law firm’s internal accountant and one of their experienced paralegals having been with Paths Law Firm since 2017. She is a primary point of contact for estate planning and business planning.

Sydney graduated with honors from the University of Missouri Kansas City in 2022 with her Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. She is a Bloch Launchpad, Phi Theta Kappa, and National Honor Society alumni.

In her free time, Sydney enjoys spending time with her husband, reading, baking and going on long walks. 

SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Christy L. Phillips

Christy L. Phillips

SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Christy L. Phillips

Christy has three years of experience in elder law working for seniors and their families. She is currently the Senior Administrative Assistant and organizes the day to day functions of the office and makes sure everything runs smoothly. When asked why she loved what she does, Christy said at Paths Law Firm, she gets the opportunity to help clients in more ways than one. Her favorite parts of the job are getting to know the clients and helping them get their questions answered. 

Christy’s experience in the finance industry has been extremely beneficial to her role as the Senior Administrative Assistant. Christy has a special place in her heart for the elderly and attributes this to the relationship she had with her grandparents. 

Christy was raised in Ogden, Utah and moved to Independence, MO, when she was ten years old. She has been with her high school sweetheart for 25 years and they have two beautiful children together. Her daughter works in the medical industry, and her son currently attends High School and plays Baseball. When Christy is not working, she enjoys crafting and spending time with her family and friends.

Christy’s experience in the finance industry has been extremely beneficial to her role as Benefits Coordinator. There have been many influences that went into her decision to select the field of Elder Law. Christy has a special place in her heart for the elderly and attributes this to her relationship with her grandparents.

When asked why she loves what she does, Christy said that at Paths Elder law, she gets the opportunity to help clients in more ways than one. Her favorite part of her job is getting clients approved for Medicaid or VA benefits as it is a huge relief for them and their loved ones.

Christy was raised in Ogden, Utah, and moved to Independence, MO, when she was ten years old. She has two children that keep her busy and fill her life with joy! Christy’s daughter cheers for Avila University, and her son plays competitive baseball for the Bucks and races BMX locally for the Motorcycle Closeout Team.

When Christy is not working, she enjoys crafting and making homemade gifts for her loved ones and raising her kids to be healthy, happy, and positive humans.

 

Practice Areas

  • Medicaid Benefits
  • VA Benefits

 

Professionalc Memberships and Affiliations

  • Missouri Notary

FINANCIAL MANAGER

René A. Fracassa

René A. Fracassa

FINANCIAL MANAGER

René A. Fracassa

René is the Financial Manager at Paths Law Firm overseeing all aspects of revenue, expenses, and financial planning. She is also responsible for general office management, including assisting in many of the administrative matters that periodically arise. 

René earned her Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, Missouri and soon thereafter worked her way through management at The American Restaurant where she worked almost 17 years before relocating to the country of China.

In her spare time, René is currently quite active managing multiple generations of her family, including parents and grandkids.  René has had great impact on the lives of many women teaching discipling and teaching and abundance of Bible Studies. Her former career in management and event planning trained her well to juggle all the activity.

MARKETING MANAGER

Hilary R. Tichota

Hilary Tichota

MARKETING MANAGER

Hilary R. Tichota

Hilary plays a vital role in managing the Marketing Department at Paths Law Firm.  She is excellent at bringing new ideas and sharing valuable resources with the law firm and our community. Hilary has been with the law firm since the beginning, working in nearly every role which is invaluable in her marketing endeavors as she brings a unique set of skills into the Marketing Department.

Hilary is nearly complete in her Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Marketing at Park University.  She has earned the honor of being listed in National Honors Society, Phi Theta Kappa, and the Dean’s List. Hilary is always looking for new and innovative ways to share the law firm’s message.

SR. PARALEGAL & OPERATIONS MANAGER

Jennifer A. Bronson

Jennifer Bronson

SR. PARALEGAL & OPERATIONS MANAGER

Jennifer A. Bronson

Jennifer is the Sr. Paralegal and Operations Manager at Paths Law Firm.  She oversees the firm’s probate department as well developing, implementing, and managing all the firm’s administrative processes having been with the law firm almost from the beginning.  She enjoys client contact as well as behind-the-scenes operations.

 

Jennifer began her legal career in 1990 as a legal secretary.  She has worked in small and medium sized firms, as well as court operations.  She has her Paralegal Certificate from Boston University, Law Office Management Certificate from University of Central Missouri, and she is a Master Financial Coach. 

 

Jennifer has two daughters, twin sons, and twin grandsons.  She spends as much time as she can with them.  She enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, and tending her yard. 

ATTORNEY

Russell A. Fracassa (Rusty)

Attorney Russell A. Fracassa

ATTORNEY

Russell A. Fracassa (Rusty)

When asked what he wants to do, his reply was “I just want to sit at the kitchen table and work directly with people.” Rusty enjoys working with clients providing experienced advocacy and supporting them through their unfamiliar and overwhelming situations. Due to all the challenges faced by seniors, it is essential to work with an experienced elder law attorney who has expertise in the law, issues, and concerns affecting seniors and their families.

Rusty brings more than 30 years legal experience and expertise working for seniors and their families as an elder law attorney in Kansas City and surrounding. Prior to law school, Rusty was an accountant and his first couple years practicing law was as a tax attorney. This provides invaluable experience in his current practice of law. Rusty’s focus is helping protect seniors’ assets from taxes and long-term care costs, benefit qualification, and navigating more complex family scenarios in their estate planning.

Rusty has personally experienced the loss every parent fears, caring for a spouse suffering with cancer and the treatment, and working with aging parents through all stages of their lives.  He intimately understands the challenges faced by individuals and their caretakers when capacity or health declines, how to prepare for it, and the legal matters while in the midst of it.  He may not be able to eliminate his client’s grief, but he strives to provide clients with peace of mind.

In 2010, Rusty’s faith and love led him and part of his family to China as Christian missionaries. He and his wife, went permanently, but ended up dedicating 3 years to that ministry. They returned to Missouri to help with grandchildren after a family tragedy and later began anew with Paths Elder Law. The goal is providing compassionate care through legal advocacy.

Rusty has multiple degrees and advanced study spanning his Bachelor’s of Arts in Business Administration – Accounting at Rockhurst College (now Rockhurst University), Masters of Arts in Accounting and in Intercultural Studies, as well as his Juris Doctorate from the University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Law.

When Rusty is not practicing law, he enjoys spending time with his family, grandchildren, and excessive eating at local restaurants.

Practice Areas

  • Wills and Trusts
  • Estate Planning
  • Asset Protection
  • Medicaid Benefits
  • VA Benefits
  • Probate
  • Guardianship and Conservatorships
  • Education

 

BSBA and Master’s in Accounting, Master’s in Inter-Cultural Studies, and Doctorate in Juris Prudence

  • Rockhurst University
  • Liberty University
  • University of Missouri – Kansas City


Admissions to Practice

  • Missouri


Professional Memberships and Affiliations

  • State Bar of Missouri
  • National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (long-time Member)
  • Elder Counsel (Charter and Ongoing Member)
  • Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys (Past Member)
  • Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association
  • Missouri State Bar Committees – Elder Law, Estate Planning, Probate