Do I Need a Power of Attorney?
YES, YES, YES! If you are over the age of 18 (and chances are if you’re reading this you are), you should have a power of attorney. Unless you would rather leave it up to a judge. A power of…
Federal Estate Tax: Inclusion of Lifetime Gifts
The answer to the question “Are gifts made during my lifetime includible in my estate for estate tax purposes?” depends on several factors. Federal For purposes of the Federal Estate Tax, yes, any taxable gifts you make during your lifetime…
Alzheimer’s Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Junio is National Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a time to show support for the millions of people struggling with this debilitating disease—and, a good time to think about planning for the possibility of needing long-term care. Alzheimer’s disease is…
Exploring the Benefits of Assisted Living Facilities
Does Medicaid Pay for Assisted Living in New York? In most cases, the answer is no. Traditional Medicaid does not typically cover the cost of assisted living facilities. However, New York does offer a special program called the Assisted Living…
My Body: Taking Control of Your End-of-Life Decisions
The short, but perhaps not so obvious answer to the question “Who has the right to determine what happens to my body when I die?” is, YOU – provided you planned ahead of time. We advise many of our clients…
The Importance of Death Certificates in Probate Proceedings
The practical answer to the question “Do I need a death certificate to probate a will?” is yes. In a practical sense, the Surrogate’s Court generally requires a death certificate in order to probate a Will, as it needs the…
Hipoteca Inversa: Puede que no sea lo que parece
Una hipoteca inversa es un préstamo hipotecario, normalmente garantizado sobre bienes inmuebles residenciales, que permite al prestatario acceder al valor patrimonial de la propiedad. En concreto, se trata de un acuerdo financiero por el que el propietario cede el valor de su vivienda...
Caring for Aging Parents: Addressing Driving and Housing
Llega un momento en que un hijo o familiar puede tener que mantener conversaciones difíciles con un padre o familiar anciano en relación con su conducción y vivienda. Aunque no existen pruebas científicas claras que indiquen cómo...
The Different Forms of Tenancies in Real Property
Just a few words on a deed may seem inconsequential, but where two or more individuals own title to real property, it is important to understand the multiple forms of ownership that are available, and unavailable, to property owners. Whether…
Luke Perry: A Tragic Loss and a Reminder of Life’s Fragility
It was Febrero 27th when Fox announced that the beloved 90s television hit, Beverly Hills, 90210, was picked up for a reunion series of six episodes. It came as a shock when, a week later, star Luke Perry, largely known…