Thanks to a statewide crack-down of abuse, homeowners who currently receive the Basic STAR Exemption will need to reapply for the exemption by December 31, 2013 in order to continue receiving the tax break. Homeowners can reapply online at www.tax.ny.gov…
What is the Spousal Transfer Exception? When applying for Medicaid Nursing Home Care, there is no transfer penalty for any asset transfers between spouses. The Medicaid Applicant Spouse will not be denied Medicaid benefits as a result of any asset…
Make documents accessible to those who need them. Henry was a very private man. He did not discuss his estate plan with his children. Henry's children, Barbara and Sam, believed that they needed to be frugal to make ends meet. Henry never…
Well, many lessons have been learned from Hurricane Sandy. To state the obvious, preparedness can make the difference between a disaster and an inconvenience. For many this was a first time experience filing an insurance claim. The lesson learned is…
Monitor beneficiary designations. John implemented an estate plan to protect his son, Charlie who has special needs. In fact, Charlie receives government assistance under the Medicaid and SSI programs. John made sure that his Will provided for a Supplemental Needs…
According to the Women’s Financial Survey conducted by Credit Union National Association (CUNA), women of all ages believe saving for retirement should be a priority. CUNA, which is a trade association serving America’s state and federally chartered credit unions, found…
What is a Durable Power-of-Attorney? This document allows you to appoint an agent to handle your financial affairs if you are unable to handle those affairs yourself (either physically or mentally). Do I have to be declared incompetent for my…
Title assets properly. Margaret, a widow, married Sam. She owned her home and upon her demise, she wanted her home sold and the sale proceeds left to her three children. She also wanted to avoid probate so she added her husband's name…
As difficult as it may be, we try our best as parents to teach our children to be self-sufficient and ambitious. We want them to be ready to face the world when they finally spread their wings. But despite the…
It’s true what they say, "there’s no place like home." Most seniors understand the truth in that saying and want to live at home. Unfortunately some seniors who have difficulties with certain activities of daily living may need some help…