You probably assume that if you die, your spouse will just pick up all the slack and completely dedicate themselves to your children. What happens if your spouse dies the same time that you do or suffers some debilitating medical event and can't take care of the kids?...
Year: 2021
3 kinds of taxes that matter during estate administration
Being an executor comes with numerous responsibilities, and it also comes with a couple of risks. If you make mistakes regarding the management of the testator assets and finances, you could face personal losses. Failing to repay creditors is a mistake that could lead...
Make your advance medical directive clear to help your family
When you think about the risk of getting seriously hurt or ill, the reality is that it’s more common than you may think. Unfortunately, if you cannot speak out for yourself in those situations, people may make decisions that you don’t agree with about your care. That...
How does the Medicaid lookback period work in New York?
Medicaid is a government insurance program that helps those unable to afford necessary medical care. Strict limitations on who can qualify for Medicaid help limit the overall costs for this important medical safety net. Limiting who can qualify for benefits and also...
Do you need an estate plan?
Having an estate plan can seem like something that only extremely wealthy people need to pass on their vast estates and mansions to their children. The idea that estate plans are only for the rich may be why more than half of all Americans do not have one. Estate...
How to talk to your elderly parent about estate planning
Your parents made sure your needs were met for many years. Now that the roles have shifted, you want to return the favor by ensuring your parent has financial and medical protection in the future. To make sure your parent has protection in these matters, you must talk...
Even those with good retirement savings may need Medicaid
Estate planning needs often overlap with retirement planning needs. Many people only think about what will happen with their property when they die during estate planning, and they don't stop to think about their golden years as carefully. Reviewing your retirement...
Will your legacy be dividing your family?
You want to leave behind a legacy of success for your children and grandchildren. You want them to know what the family means to you. You hope that they will all stay close, even after you are gone. Nothing means more to you than knowing that your family is safe,...
What happens if I die without a will in New York?
Death is inevitable. While it may not be something you want to think about, it is an unavoidable and unpredictable part of life. Although you cannot predict your death, you can plan for it. An estate plan is a way for you to help your loved ones know what you want for...
A power of attorney can protect you from involuntary guardianship
It is hard to know what aging will involve for you. Some people remain mentally sharp and physically fit well into their 90s and live independently their entire life. Others may start to develop physical limitations in their seventies and may experience cognitive...