How to Spot and Avoid Scammers
Have you ever received an e-mail from someone you know that seems to be a bit suspicious? You know the one I mean. They say “Hey…check this out” and it only contains a link to an outside website. Or they…
Solar Panels and Home Value: What You Need to Know
As the use and installation of solar panels in residential homes become more prevalent, we are increasingly facing the question with our clients as what to do if they decide to sell their home after solar panels have been installed…
Will Drafting: Understanding the Importance and Length
Recently, a client called me in a bit of a panic. She had just received the drafts of her Will and was shocked to see that it was thirty pages long! She didn’t understand why and told me all she…
The Peace of Mind Program
Why we recommend the Peace of Mind Program to all our clients: The Peace of Mind Program [POM] is an ongoing maintenance program that provides a cost-effective way to ensure your plan is up to date and meets your goals…
Choosing the Right Executor for Your Estate: Key Considerations
Determining who you should select to serve as the Executor of your estate can often be a difficult decision. It is important to understand the duties and responsibilities of an Executor before you make your final decision. Here are some…
Retirement Account Distribution: Planning for the Future
Retirement accounts are commonly one of our clients’ largest assets. These retirement accounts represent the fruit of a lifetime of labor, years of tax-deferred appreciation, and what many hope will be a lasting legacy that will help their children/beneficiaries in…
Placing S-Corporation Shares into a Grantor Trust
With the federal and New York state tax exemptions being so high ($11.18 million and $5.25 million, respectively), clients with family businesses held in an S-corporation are less focused on reducing estate taxes and are more focused on avoiding probate…
Should Tom Hanks be my Health Care Proxy?
As Elder Law attorneys we are keenly aware of the many serious issues that impact the senior citizen population. We take great pride in being advocates for our senior clients. In addition, we strive to educate our clients and the…
Who has the ability to contest my Last Will and Testament?
In New York State, in order to contest a person’s Last Will and Testament, the challenger must have the right to do so. This right is known as “standing”. A challenger has standing under the following circumstances: When he or…
Navigating Medicaid Homestead Exemptions
A homestead is defined by Medicaid as the primary residence occupied by the applicant, the applicant's spouse, or the applicant's minor, disabled or blind child. A homestead is exempt for purposes of Medicaid eligibility under certain circumstances. However, the law…