Across Massachusetts, more families are choosing to live together under one roof. Whether it’s adult children moving in with aging parents, grandparents helping raise grandchildren, or multiple generations pooling resources, these arrangements can offer both emotional and financial support. However, they also raise new questions about property rights, caregiving responsibilities, and long-term...
Estate Planning Blog – Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes
Can I Lose Medicaid if I Sell My House?
Selling a home is a significant financial event, especially when you’re receiving Medicaid benefits. One question we often hear is whether selling a house could affect Medicaid eligibility. In Massachusetts, MassHealth has strict rules around income and assets, and selling your home can put those benefits at risk if not handled properly....
Can I Give My Kids Their Inheritance Before I Die?
Many parents want to help their children when it matters most, not just after they’re gone. Whether it’s helping with a first home, college tuition, or starting a business, the idea of passing on part of an inheritance early can be appealing. But before you start writing checks, it’s important to understand...
Substance Use Disorders and Inheritance Planning
Families facing substance use disorders know how complicated the situation can be. You want to protect your loved one, provide for them, and support their recovery, but without putting them or their inheritance at risk. A traditional estate plan may not provide the necessary safeguards. With thoughtful planning, it’s possible to leave...
Disinheriting Family Members: Legal Requirements and Alternatives
Disinheriting someone from your estate is a serious decision, and one that must be clearly documented and carefully executed. In Massachusetts, adults can legally disinherit family members, including adult children, siblings, or parents. However, you cannot entirely disinherit a spouse unless specific planning steps are taken.
Spouses are protected...
Navigating the Funding of Your Revocable Living Trust (RLT)
Erin L. Nunes, Esq., Managing Partner
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A Revocable Living Trust (RLT) is a powerful estate planning tool, offering benefits like avoiding probate, maintaining privacy, and providing for seamless asset management in case of incapacity. However, the true power of an RLT lies not just in its creation,...
You’re Young, You’re Thriving… But Have You Thought About This? Estate Planning for Millennials
By Rebecca S. Spinner, Esq.
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Hi Millennials! I’m Rebecca S. Spinner, an estate planning attorney with Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes P.C. and a fellow Millennial living and working right here in Massachusetts. I work with people of all ages every day, and I've noticed a common misconception repeated...
Your Checklist: Your Last Will and Testament
Making a will might seem like a daunting task, but we promise it's more straightforward than you think. The first step is often the hardest—deciding to get started. The second step is simply gathering some information.
To help you feel prepared and confident for your initial consultation, we've put...
Should You Include Your Estranged Adult Children in Your Estate Plan?
Every estate plan tells a story of values, priorities, and relationships. When it comes to children you’ve become distant from, deciding what role they should play in your legacy can be one of the most difficult parts of planning. Some parents lean toward inclusion to preserve family ties, while others feel a...
Secure Your Legacy with Virtual Consultations and Easy Signing
You've worked hard your entire life to build and protect what matters most. Now, it's time to ensure that your legacy, your wishes, and your loved ones are secure. Many people put off estate planning because they think it's complicated, but we've made the process simple and accessible. With our streamlined approach,...