This year, Ruben purchased a partnership-qualified LTC insurance policy with maximum lifetime benefits of $200,000. His countable assets total $300,000. Under his state's Medicaid program, he would be permitted to keep up to $2,000 in countable assets if he were to qualify for Medicaid. Ruben has a stroke, lapses into a coma, and requires long-term care services. The cost of his care exceeds the policy's maximum benefit amount, and he must apply to Medicaid. What is the total amount of Ruben's personal countable assets that would be exempt from Medicaid's spend-down requirement? (Search Chapter 7)

• a. $2,000
• b. $200,000
• c. $202,000
• d. $300,000