Spending quality time with family is undoubtedly one of the best things about the holiday season. For those with aging loved ones, this time is especially precious. Beyond making cherished memories, the holidays offer a critical opportunity to observe, assess, and ensure your loved ones are safe, happy, and prepared for the future.
Estate Planning Blog – Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes
Passing Down Property Just Got Easier: Understanding MA’s Home Inspection Exemptions for Estate Planning
Message from Managing Partner Erin L. Nunes, Esq.
A recent change in Massachusetts law has introduced new home inspection requirements that could impact estate planning strategies involving real estate transfers. Designed to increase transparency and safety in property transactions, the law mandates specific inspection protocols that now apply not...
Understanding and Paying for Nursing Home Costs in Massachusetts
Erin L. Nunes, Esq., Managing Partner
The prospect of nursing home care can be financially daunting. With costs in Massachusetts often exceeding $15,000 per month, understanding the various payment methods and strategies is crucial for individuals and families facing this reality. This article outlines the primary avenues for covering...
Taking Money from an Irrevocable Trust Without Affecting the Medicaid Look-Back Period
Erin L. Nunes, Esq., Managing Partner
For many individuals and families, an Irrevocable Trust (IRT) is a crucial component of a comprehensive elder law plan, particularly for protecting assets while planning for potential long-term care needs and Medicaid eligibility. A common concern, however, is how to access funds from...
Big News for Business Owners: Understanding the Latest Changes to the Corporate Transparency Act
Erin L. Nunes, Esq. , Managing Partner
As an estate planning and elder law firm, we constantly monitor legal developments that impact our clients and the broader community. You may have heard about the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), a federal law designed to combat illicit financial activities by requiring...
Guiding Your Loved Ones: A Comprehensive Approach to Caring for Aging Parents in Massachusetts
Erin L. Nunes, Esq., Managing Partner
Continue reading…
As our parents age, many of us find ourselves transitioning into a caregiving role. This can be a challenging, yet deeply rewarding, journey. In Massachusetts, a wealth of resources and support systems are available to help adult children provide the best possible...
Legal Solutions for Preserving Shared Vacation Properties
A family vacation home can be a source of lasting memories, but also potential friction. When multiple people inherit or co-own a cherished getaway, good intentions alone aren’t always enough to prevent problems. Scheduling conflicts, differing financial contributions, or a co-owner’s desire to sell can create real tension. Fortunately, there are legal...
Legal and Financial Planning For Multi-Generational Households
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...
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...