FAQs – Expecting an Inheritance
In my previous post, I explained why receiving an inheritance changes your estate plan (read here). Today, I will address some frequently asked questions regarding inheritances. Frequently Asked Questions Should I tell my estate planner I’m expecting an inheritance? Yes. While some people are hesitant to count their chickens before they hatch, looping your estate […]
Why Receiving An Inheritance Changes Your Estate Plan
Why Receiving an Inheritance Changes Your Estate Plan Receiving an inheritance is a huge blessing but, if not handled properly, can also become a curse. Often times, the inheritor does not know what to do with the new asset and runs into financial trouble, squandering most, if not all of it. This could happen due […]
Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts
Introduction – The Emerging Field of Elder Law As an estate planning and elder law attorney, one of my goals is to educate folks on how to get the benefits they are entitled to without wiping out all of their assets. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, someone who is 65 […]
Estate Planning: What Makes Me Different?
Doesn’t Every Attorney Do Estate Planning? Let’s face it: many attorneys do estate planning. At least they claim to. Coupled with the emergence of companies like LegalZoom, there’s no shortage of options for the consumer. However, estate planning is much more than pieces of paper. Promote Your Values and Increase Family Harmony At the end […]
Medicaid: Protect Your House
Introduction – Protecting Your Home From Medicaid Previously, we discussed what Medicaid covers and the financial eligibility requirements. Today, I want to get a bit more specific. In particular, I am going to discuss the largest asset most people own: their home. Depending upon the circumstances, the primary residence can present significant problems as it […]
Estate Planning: 3 Things Newlyweds Should Know
Introduction – Estate Planning for Newlyweds Are you a newlywed? If so, estate planning is probably the last thing on your mind. For starters, nobody wants to think about their spouse passing away. What’s more, weddings cost a lot of money. By some estimates, 74% percent of couples go into debt to pay for their […]
Probate: 3 Things You May Not Know
Introduction Whenever you lose a loved one, probate is the last thing that comes to mind. Unfortunately, for many families, it becomes part of the grieving process. Having an idea of what to expect can make it easier on everyone. Here are three things you may not know about probate. Wills Do Not Avoid Probate […]
Medicaid 101: Financial Eligibility
Introduction – Medicaid Financial Eligibility In my last post, I discussed the basics of Medicaid (click here). To recap, Medicaid is a joint effort between the states and federal government. It pays the medical expenses of qualified individuals. I am an estate planning and elder law attorney. My law firm helps clients plan for long-term […]
Medicaid 101: Coverage & Eligibility
Introduction to Medicaid While many people have heard of Medicaid, few truly understand it. Beginning today, this blog will feature a comprehensive, multi-part series on the program. Part one is an overview of coverage and eligibility. What is Medicaid? Medicaid is a joint effort between the states and federal government. It pays health care costs […]
3 Keys to a Successful Probate
Introduction You have just lost a loved one, and now comes the dreaded words: you need to go to probate. Sure, dealing with a court is never fun. However, there are things you can do to make the process easier on your family. Here are three keys for a successful probate. Hire the Right Probate […]