Estate Planning
Tax Act Brings Changes to SSI / Medicaid Treatment of Refunds, Tax Credits
Several little-noticed provisions in the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010 fundamentally alter how the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid programs treat tax refunds and other tax credits, making it easier for elders and...
Read moreThe Virtues of Private Reverse Mortgages
Banks have been touting the advantages of "reverse" mortgages, but there is another alternative . . .
Read moreDo Surviving Spouses Have a Right to a 401(k) or an IRA?
When choosing a beneficiary for a retirement plan, it is important to understand how your spouse will be treated under the plan.
Read moreAvoid Disputes Between Your POA Holder and Health Care Proxy
A durable power of attorney and a health care proxy are two very important estate planning documents. Because the individuals chosen will have to coordinate your care, it is important to pick two people who will get along.
Read morePrevent Your Power of Attorney from Being Ignored
Many people experience difficulty in getting banks or other financial institutions to recognize the authority of an agent under a power of attorney. ...
Read moreCharitable Remainder Trusts: Income for Life and a Good Deed at Death
Many people like the idea of leaving bequests to favorite charities in their wills. But instead of leaving money to a charity in your will, you can put that money into a charitable remainder trust and collect income while you...
Read moreOnline Legal Documents Company Sued Over Flawed Estate Plan
LegalZoom, one of the most prominent sellers of do-it-yourself wills and other estate planning documents, is the target of a class action lawsuit . . .
Read moreCrummey Trust: A Safe Way to Give Financial Gifts to Minors
Many parents and grandparents want to pass their wealth to their children while they are still alive. Gifts to children or grandchildren can be a good way to reduce a taxable estate. At the same time, you can control when the...
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