Can I Transfer a Second Home Without Losing Benefits?

It depends on which benefits you receive. Social Security retirement and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) don’t look at assets at all. If the house is being counted against you, the program is probably Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid. Before you sign anything, find out exactly which program flagged it.

Which Benefits Count the House as an Asset?

• Social Security retirement and SSDI. These are not based on need, so owning a second property doesn’t reduce them.

• SSI. If you’re receiving SSI, your assets are limited to $2,000 for one person and $3,000 for a couple. A house you don’t live in counts toward this limit.

• Medicaid for people who are aged or disabled: Generally, Medicaid benefits are also subject to an asset limit. The amount differs per state. For Nebraska, it is $4,000 for one person and $6,000 for a couple living together. Long-term care Medicaid has different rules for married couples. Your own home is exempt, but a second property is not.

Check your notice or ask your caseworker which program is counting the house. Your answer to that question changes the plan.

Can We Just Give the House to Our Daughter?

You can, but it can backfire. Giving away property for less than it’s worth will likely be treated as a transfer, even to your own child.

• SSI. A gift can stop your payments for up to 36 months.

• Medicaid. Nebraska looks back five years when someone applies for nursing home or long-term care coverage. A gift in that window can create a penalty period with no coverage for that care.

• Taxes. Gifts over the annual exclusion ($19,000 per person in 2026) may require a gift tax return. You likely wouldn’t owe tax, but you may have to file the tax return.

What Are the Safer Options?

• Sell the house to your daughter at fair market value. An appraisal helps prove the price. You would then have cash, which counts as an asset.

• Spend the money on things you need that don’t count against you. Examples include repairs to your own home, a vehicle, medical needs, paying debts, or a prepaid funeral. Keep every receipt.

• Ask whether an exception applies. In some situations, a transfer is allowed without a penalty, such as one to a disabled child. An attorney can tell you whether your family qualifies.

Quick Checklist

• Find out which benefit is counting the house.

• Get a written appraisal.

• Don’t sign a deed until you’ve gotten advice.

• Keep records of the purchase and any money you spend.

• Talk to a Nebraska elder law attorney or Legal Aid of Nebraska.

Rules change depending on your situation, so confirm the details with your local benefits office.