The house was put in my name in 1980. My mom has a life estate. She is 86. She is in a nursing home in another state. Do I have to sell the ...

Question

The house was put in my name in 1980. My mom has a life estate. She is 86. She is in a nursing home in another state. Do I have to sell the house? If so,, what percent will she receive. She has collected rent money on this house since the 80's.

Thank you for you help.

Answer

You probably don't need to sell the house. However, if your mother has applied for and is receiving Medicaid, Social Security may have a lien against the house for what they've paid. You might have also been required to declare the rent money as income on mom's income taxes. You had best consult with a local attorney who specializes in elder law before you do anything further.