Healthcare coverage isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some programs are designed for older adults, while others focus on those with limited income or specific medical needs. Medicare, Medicaid, and MassHealth each have different eligibility rules and benefits, which can make it difficult to determine where you fit in. For Massachusetts residents, MassHealth provides additional coverage...
Estate Planning Blog – Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes
May is National Elder Law Month!
Did you know that May has long been a month of recognition for seniors? It all started in 1963, when President John F. Kennedy designated May as Senior Citizens Month to honor those aged 65 and older. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter carried on that legacy and renamed it Older Americans Month—a...
How to File a Will in Massachusetts
When a loved one passes away, their will must go through probate before their assets can be distributed. This legal process ensures that the will is valid and that the right person is in charge of handling the estate. Massachusetts has specific rules for filing a will, including deadlines and required paperwork....
Can You Be Paid For Caring For a Family Member in Massachusetts?
Caring for a family member can be a full-time commitment, requiring both time and emotional energy. While many people take on this role out of love, the financial burden can be significant. Paying for everyday expenses, reducing work hours, or leaving a job entirely to provide care can create serious financial strain....
How an Attorney Can Help You Apply For MassHealth Benefits
MassHealth provides vital healthcare coverage, but the application process can be complicated. Many people assume they qualify, only to face unexpected roadblocks due to income limits, asset restrictions, or missing paperwork. Others worry they’ll have to drain their savings just to meet eligibility requirements. The good news is that there are legal...
What to Expect During Probate Court Hearings
Losing a loved one comes with many challenges, and probate court hearings are often part of the process. These hearings give the court a chance to oversee the estate, confirm the personal representative or administrator, and ensure debts and assets are handled properly. While some cases move smoothly, others involve legal disputes...
How to Know if You Have a Strong Estate Plan
A strong estate plan gives you control over your future and protects the people you care about most. Without one, the court may decide who receives your assets and who manages your affairs if something happens to you. That process can be expensive, time-consuming, and stressful for loved ones. With the right...
Does a Spouse Automatically Inherit Everything in Massachusetts?
Many people assume that when a spouse passes away without a will, the surviving partner automatically inherits everything. In Massachusetts, that’s not always the case. State law determines how assets are distributed when someone dies without a will, and a spouse’s share depends on whether there are children, parents, or other relatives...
Peace of Mind: Why Healthcare Decisions Are the Ultimate Act of Self-Care
As the managing partner of Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, P.C., I've witnessed firsthand the profound impact that proactive healthcare planning has on individuals and their families. It's more than just legal paperwork; it's about ensuring your wishes are honored, maintaining control over your medical decisions, and ultimately, finding peace of mind.
Does Social Security Count as Income for MassHealth?
For many Massachusetts residents, Social Security benefits provide a vital source of income. At the same time, MassHealth offers healthcare coverage to those who meet certain financial requirements. The way MassHealth counts Social Security income can affect eligibility, sometimes pushing individuals over the limit for coverage. While some benefits are included in...