During this public health crisis, there is no shortage of scams that are looking to feed off the rising fear and confusion surrounding the coronavirus. Many of these scams are aimed at senior citizens, who may not be as vigilant to online scam tactics. Seniors are at high risk of having more severe COVID-19 symptoms, [...]
Benjamin Franklin once said “in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” In America, death certainly comes with plenty of taxes. While most people are certainly aware of what estate tax is, many people are often unaware that there is another form of tax on inheritance, known as the [...]
Despite the current pandemic, there have been significant changes in the law which could affect your estate plan. The SECURE ACT has dramatically changed how inherited IRAs must be distributed and has clearly limited categories of individuals who may be exempt from these changes. One of the provisions of the CARES ACT, which passed as [...]
The 2020/2021 New York State Budget has been approved by the legislature and signed into law by the Governor. It provides for significant changes in the Medicaid rules which we have seen in 14 years. Spousal Refusal One important aspect of this budget is that spousal refusal has survived, and the Spousal Impoverishment Resource Allowance [...]
Most people have heard of the term “Power of Attorney” used in courtroom dramas, but aren’t fully aware of what the phrase means. Power of Attorney is a legal device used to grant and recognize the authority of another individual in the stead of another. What is a Power of Attorney Used For? The Agent, [...]
Recently, the Social Security Administration has announced a 2.8 percent increase in benefits in 2019. This increase is the largest yearly boost since 2012. The change will give an extra $468 annually to the average retired beneficiary. With the costs of living, as well as the costs of medical care, rising, this increase can help [...]
Surrogate's Court is a special type of court where proceedings are focused around the estate of a deceased individual. It is up to the Surrogate's Court to ensure that the deceased’s creditors are paid and that the remainder of the individual’s estate is distributed either pursuant to the term of the deceased party's Last Will [...]
In today’s modern world, we rely on the internet for many tasks. Banking, shopping, ordering pizza and more can be achieved online. Some people also turn to the internet for more serious things, like creating a Will. This may not be a good idea because most online Will services do not take into account changes [...]
Elder abuse is a serious issue affecting about 1 in every 10 senior citizens in America, as stated by reported cases. The toll that elder abuse can take on a senior can be devastating. The impact of the abuse can be felt physically, emotionally, psychologically, and financially. It can also be difficult for a senior [...]
To many millennials, an estate plan may seem like something far off. But in fact, it can always be helpful to have an estate plan. Any asset you have, from bank accounts to heirlooms can be accounted for within a Will. Guardianship wishes for your minor children should be documented. Regardless of financial, marital or [...]
