It is now official in Connecticut, that if your husband or wife needs nursing home care, you can protect not only the family house, plus about $110,000, but also a significant amount above the $110,000 by buying an immediate annuity with special conditions. This came about on August 11, 2010 in a Federal Court decision, Lopes v Starkowski. The State of Connecticut has decided to appeal the decision, so there is some degree of uncertainty. But if successful, all Connecticut residents, in a husband and wife situation, could keep extra assets, above and beyond the $110,000 previously allowed.