Irrevocable trusts are often seen as set in stone, but life doesn’t always follow the plans we make. Sometimes, circumstances change, and a trust may no longer meet the needs of its beneficiaries or align with the grantor’s original intentions. Whether it’s due to a significant life event, tax law changes, or...
Estate Planning Blog – Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes
Navigating MassHealth’s Spend-Down Requirements for Long-Term Care
Long-term care often comes with unexpected challenges, especially when managing costs. For many families, qualifying for MassHealth is a vital step, but the process of meeting financial eligibility can raise tough questions. How do you reduce assets without sacrificing stability? What steps can help protect your financial well-being while ensuring access to...
Gaining Benefits for In-Home Long-Term Care
Many people prefer to receive long-term care at home rather than move into a facility. Being surrounded by familiar faces and a comfortable environment can make a significant difference in maintaining independence and quality of life. In-home care provides the support you need while allowing you to stay connected to your community...
An update on the Social Security Fairness Act from Attorney Wendy W. Weston
Are you or a loved one a retired public servant such as teachers, firefighters, police officers and others who have paid into Social Security for years?
For over 40 years legislation has been in place that capped or excluded their claiming of the benefits they paid into for so...
Overwhelmed by Estate Planning? Start Here!
By Attorney Erin L. Nunes, Esq., Partner
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One of the most common reasons people delay estate planning is the sheer volume of decisions it seems to require. The good news? You don't need to have all the answers upfront.
Instead of feeling paralyzed by the...
New Year, New You: Updating Your Estate Plan for Recent Life Changes
The New Year is the perfect time to take stock of your life and make meaningful updates. While many focus on health goals or career aspirations, it’s equally important to ensure your estate plan reflects your current circumstances. Life is full of changes—marriage, children, new homes, or shifts in health—and your estate...
Pooled Trusts Reinstated: An Asset Protection Tool for Long-Term Care Planning
By Attorney Erin l. Nunes, Esq., Partner
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Great news for Massachusetts residents! Pooled trusts are once again available as an asset protection tool for those planning for long-term care. Thanks to the recent passage of the Long-Term Care Bill, individuals seeking MassHealth benefits can now establish a pooled...
Planning Ahead for 2025 Medicaid and Long-Term Care Costs
The new year is a great time to look toward the future and plan ahead regarding Medicaid and long-term care costs. Here’s what you need to know, and how a bit of foresight now can pay big dividends for your future.
The Importance of Planning for Long-Term Care
The Pros and Cons of Joint Ownership in Estate Planning
For some families, joint ownership offers a sense of security and simplicity. Sharing ownership of assets like property or bank accounts can mean that if one person passes away, the other has immediate access without needing court approval. It’s a practical way to handle certain assets and often appeals to those looking...
End-of-Year Financial Review: Aligning Your Investments with Your Estate Plan
The end of the year offers a natural opportunity to review your financial and estate planning goals. Many people assess their finances at this time to prepare for tax season, set future goals, or take advantage of deadlines for contributions or deductions. Including estate planning in this review allows you to ensure...