Planning for the future during an economic boom is fun. Optimism and joyful speculation give your estate plan a rosy glow, and it may seem the sky’s the limit. Nonetheless, there is much to be said for the realistic, protective mindset that accompanies estate planning during an economic downturn. In either case,...
Estate Planning Blog – Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes
5 Things to Know about Estate Planning for Pets
As part of our family, pets typically get their needs well met and receive an enormous amount of care and affection. Unlike children, however, they do not grow up and become independent. For this reason, we remain concerned about their well-being for as long as they live and sometimes worry about how...
Exempt Assets and Countable Assets: What Can You Keep and What Is at Risk?
Qualifying for Medicaid in Massachusetts requires passing strict financial eligibility tests. One of the most important steps in this process is understanding which assets are exempt (not counted) and which are countable (at risk of being spent down). Knowing the difference can help you and your family protect property while still getting...
Telemarketing and Internet Scams that Target the Elderly
It is well-known that seniors are especially vulnerable to scam artists. The reasons are quite clear: seniors are often retired and available, having the time and interest to be responsive to a stranger’s proposition. They are also much more likely to talk on the phone or reply to an email that piques...
Estate Planning for LGBTQ Families
While it’s true that since 2015, when same-sex marriage became legal throughout the country, life became increasingly manageable for more than a million couples and families in the United States. Nonetheless, there are still complexities relative to LGBTQ estate planning that require the services of a skilled estate planning attorney. At Surprenant...
MassHealth Estate Recovery: New Rules You Should Know
Written by: Atty Michelle D. Beneski, Esq., CELA, LLM in Taxation
Here’s the issue: The Federal government mandates that if you receive MassHealth benefits after age 55, or if MassHealth pays for nursing home care for you at any time during your life, MassHealth must attempt to recover the...
Bob Surprenant Reminds us of the Value of Time
https://youtu.be/Vxz3JkEVnQ8
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February 10, 1990
Dear Michelle, Michael and Daniel:
You are receiving a photocopy of the original letter because I don’t have time to write original letters to each of you. Enclosed is a...
Mom Needs Nursing Home Care… Now What?
It’s a horrible situation faced by so many families. A loved one, husband, wife, mom or dad, is slowing down and can’t live at home any longer. The doctor says mom needs nursing home care. What do you do? Your neighbor tells you that nursing homes cost $12,000 per month and that...
Fifty Plus Advocate Article: Surprenant & Beneski P.C. encourages early estate planning
Learning about power of attorney, trusts, wills and health directives does not need to be overwhelming. The legal staff of Surprenant & Beneski, P.C. emphasize the importance and value of early estate planning. They are committed to educating you and facilitating the process so informed decisions are made for you and your...
Avoiding Family Disputes Over Inheritance
Family loss can bring both grief and unexpected tension. While emotions often run high after a death, many inheritance conflicts can be prevented with thoughtful estate planning and open communication. By creating a clear, updated estate plan that reflects your wishes and family dynamics, you can help your loved ones avoid disputes...