How many years before going to nursing home put in a trust?

The timing of when to put assets into a trust in order to avoid the high cost of nursing home care can vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific rules. In the United States, there are generally two timeframes to consider:

1. 5-Year Lookback Period for Medicaid: Many states have a 5-year lookback period for Medicaid, the government healthcare program that covers nursing home care for low-income individuals. This means that if you transfer assets into a trust within 5 years of applying for Medicaid, the value of those assets may still be counted towards your eligibility for Medicaid. Some states have different lookback periods, so it's important to check the specific rules in your state.

2. Irrevocable Trust vs. Revocable Trust: An irrevocable trust is generally more effective for protecting assets from nursing home care costs because you give up ownership and control of the assets once you put them into the trust. A revocable trust, on the other hand, gives you more flexibility to access the assets but may not offer the same level of protection against Medicaid.

It's recommended that you consult with an estate planning attorney who is experienced in Medicaid and elder law to discuss your specific situation and determine the best strategies for preserving your assets for long-term care expenses.