Q: Our mother is going into a nursing home and application asks for any transfers. Do we need to declare gifts from 2-3 yrs ago? She has resources for approximately one month in a Nursing home and afterwards I believe Medicaid would take over.

A: Yes, when applying for Medicaid eligibility, you need to list all transfers of any property for no consideration (gifts or under market value) in which mom had an interest for the past 5 years. Any transfers without consideration, or which the consideration (money received for sale) for her property which has not been documented, could possibly exclude her from Medicaid eligibility. You really should consult with an estate lawyer or elder law lawyer versed in Medicaid law before filling out any benefits application.