Sam and Shirley wanted to make it easier on their family when they passed away. They loved the idea of "avoiding probate" and saving legal fees. So, with this in mind, they created revocable living trusts. Goes ball not mexican…
Well, no one should leave it up to New York State but... When Henry died without a Will, everyone scrambled to find out who would inherit his millions. New York has what is called "Intestacy Laws." Under intestate succession, who…
What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid? Medicare is a government program that provides health care benefits to senior citizens, disabled individuals and individuals with certain chronic illnesses. Medicaid is a need-based government program available to individuals with low…
If you are receiving, or are applying to receive, community Medicaid benefits, a Pooled Income Trust is an important planning tool to consider. For 2013, the Medicaid monthly income allowance is $820 per month. Any income above the $820 per…
When is the reading of the will? Usually there is no formal “will reading” for the family. If you are the next of kin, you hopefully are aware of the estate planning attorney that your family member used. Please contact…
The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) was a landmark legislation when it was signed into law on Julio 26, 1990. Finally, laws which gave civil rights to people with disabilities. This was the first piece of legislation in the world…
Hall of Fame baseball player Cal Ripken Jr.’s mother, Violet Ripken, recently taught her son and the world a lesson in perseverance, and in physical and emotional strength. Violet Ripken taught this lesson when she recently fended off an armed…
The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the state of Florida recently. In its suit, the Justice Department alleges that Florida is in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in its administration of its service…
Today, caregivers are under great pressure to take care of their parents while taking care of themselves and their own families. For years, we have referred to these caregivers as members of the “Sandwich generation.” As a planner, I always point…
Individuals with developmental disabilities and disability advocates achieved a significant victory recently when a Virginia judge rejected a guardianship request from the parents of a 29-year-old woman with Down syndrome. Jenny Hatch’s mother and stepfather filed a guardianship proceeding in…