New Jersey Medicaid Trust Attorney Christine Matus Explains Qualified Income Trusts

Navigating the strict financial requirements of Medicaid in New Jersey can be a significant barrier for many families seeking long-term care. New Jersey Medicaid trust attorney Christine Matus (https://matuslaw.com/understanding-qualified-income-trusts-in-new-jersey/) provides essential insights into how Qualified Income Trusts (QITs) serve as a crucial financial tool for individuals who exceed Medicaid income limits. Without compromising access to care or exhausting savings, these trusts offer a way to meet eligibility criteria while maintaining financial security.

New Jersey Medicaid trust attorney Christine Matus emphasizes that the state's income limits are particularly challenging. In 2025, a single applicant's monthly income must be below $2,901, while asset limits are capped at $4,000. For many, especially those relying on fixed incomes such as pensions or Social Security, even a slight overage can jeopardize their access to Medicaid. Christine Matus outlines how QITs allow excess income to be lawfully diverted, making it exempt from Medicaid's calculations and enabling applicants to qualify for benefits they might otherwise be denied.

Christine Matus, an experienced New Jersey Medicaid trust attorney, details how a QIT operates. The trust must be irrevocable, meaning once it is established, it cannot be changed. It must be managed by a trustee who is not the Medicaid applicant-usually a family member or professional-and income over the Medicaid threshold must be deposited into a separate trust account each month. This income can then be used only for specific Medicaid-approved expenses, such as the applicant's share of long-term care costs, personal needs allowance, or spousal income support. Misuse of the funds can result in disqualification from Medicaid, making trustee responsibilities especially critical.

"Redirecting excess income into the QIT and using it exclusively for allowable expenses helps applicants reduce their countable income and meet Medicaid's requirements," says Christine Matus. This approach becomes even more relevant for families navigating sudden care needs, such as a parent requiring immediate nursing home placement or individuals whose incomes fluctuate just above eligibility thresholds.

The process of establishing a QIT in New Jersey involves drafting a compliant trust document, selecting a trustee, and opening a bank account specifically for the trust. Christine Matus advises that the trust document must include specific language required under New Jersey Medicaid rules, and the timely monthly deposit of income into the account is non-negotiable. Failing to deposit the full amount of excess income, or missing a deposit entirely, can lead to delays or denial of Medicaid benefits.

Trustees also carry the responsibility of managing the funds in strict accordance with state guidelines. Funds cannot be used for general debts or unauthorized purchases, and meticulous records must be maintained to document every transaction. Christine Matus points out that oversight in any of these areas could threaten Medicaid eligibility and place unnecessary financial strain on families.

For seniors and caregivers in New Jersey, QITs serve a vital role. With nursing home care often exceeding $10,000 a month, the financial pressure can be immense. Christine Matus notes that many families are caught in a gap-earning too much to qualify for Medicaid, but not nearly enough to cover care costs independently. In such cases, QITs offer a reliable solution to gain access to vital long-term care services while protecting income and assets.

There are several situations where a QIT becomes especially important. These include reacting to unexpected long-term care needs, adjusting to income changes like cost-of-living increases, or managing finances within married couples where only one spouse requires Medicaid. Christine Matus emphasizes the importance of early planning and tailored legal strategies to avoid Medicaid eligibility pitfalls.

The Matus Law Group offers assistance for families looking to establish a Qualified Income Trust in New Jersey. Christine Matus works closely with clients to assess their financial circumstances, draft valid trust documents, guide trustee selection, and support families through every step of the Medicaid planning process.

Mistakes in establishing or managing a QIT can be costly. Christine Matus identifies common missteps such as failing to deposit income on time, using funds for ineligible expenses, choosing an unreliable trustee, or ignoring New Jersey-specific compliance rules. Avoiding these issues requires not just attention to detail, but a solid understanding of the legal framework behind Medicaid eligibility and trust administration.

A Qualified Income Trust is often the difference between receiving essential care and being left without options. Christine Matus and The Matus Law Group are dedicated to helping families create a plan that fits their unique situation, offering the clarity and legal support needed to move forward with confidence.

Families struggling with Medicaid eligibility in New Jersey due to income limitations can benefit significantly from a properly structured QIT. Christine Matus encourages individuals to take proactive steps to protect their financial health while accessing the care they need. With the right legal guidance, it is possible to secure Medicaid benefits without sacrificing stability or peace of mind.

About Matus Law Group:

The Matus Law Group, led by Christine Matus, provides legal support in New Jersey for Medicaid planning, estate law, and related services. The firm focuses on helping families navigate the legal and financial challenges associated with long-term care and asset protection.

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