New York’s Gay Marriage Law Implies Important Rights for Gay Seniors

New York’s recently-enacted gay marriage law is a great emotional and symbolic victory for New Yorkers, and for gay couples everywhere. It also has significant practical benefits in many areas that touch the legal rights of married persons. For those of us concerned with the health care, and particularly long-term care, of seniors, New York’s law will have a significant impact. For example, gay couples who marry will have spousal rights under the Medicaid laws to make exempt transfers of money and property to their spouses, and to claim the benefits of the Community Spouse Resource Allowance and the Minimum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance. To find out more, contact your Elder Law attorney.