As a single parent, estate planning might seem overwhelming, but it’s one of the most important steps you can take to secure your child’s future. You’re the primary decision-maker; ensuring your wishes are clearly laid out can give you peace of mind. From choosing a guardian to setting up a trust, several...
Estate Planning Blog – Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes
Staying Home, Staying Healthy: How CommunityMassHealth Can Help
By Attorney Erin. L Nunes, Esq., Partner
As elder law attorneys, we see firsthand the desire of many seniors to remain independent in their own homes for as long as possible. Fortunately, Massachusetts offers a valuable program called Community
MassHealth that can make this dream a reality for those needing...
Community MassHealth: A Valuable Tool for Long-Term Care Planning
Understanding Community MassHealth
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Community MassHealth is a state-funded program that provides health care coverage for low-income individuals and families in Massachusetts. While it's often associated with Medicaid, Community MassHealth offers a specific program called "Community Medicaid" that can be a valuable tool for individuals seeking to offset the...
Letter of Intent: A Crucial Document in Special Needs Planning
Caring for a loved one with special needs involves more than just addressing financial concerns; it’s about ensuring their day-to-day life is supported with the attention and care they require. A letter of intent captures the unique details of their routines, preferences, and needs, providing future caregivers with a comprehensive understanding of...
Adulting 101: Why Young Families Need an Estate Plan
Starting a family is an exciting milestone, but it also brings new responsibilities that require careful consideration. One of the most crucial steps you can take to protect your loved ones is to create a comprehensive estate plan. Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or the elderly; it’s about making sure...
Protecting LGBTQ Partners: The Importance of Health Care Proxies and Advance Directives
Planning for the future is essential, especially when it comes to ensuring that your wishes are respected in critical situations. For LGBTQ partners, having health care proxies and advance directives in place is a key step in safeguarding your rights and maintaining control over medical decisions. These legal documents enable you to...
Understanding Medicaid Spend-Down Rules in Massachusetts
Medicaid eligibility often requires reducing your assets to a certain level, a process known as spending down. Understanding how to manage this process is essential for those planning to apply for Medicaid in Massachusetts. By strategically spending down assets, you can meet the requirements without jeopardizing your financial stability. Whether you're preparing...
What to Expect During the Probate Process in Massachusetts
When a loved one passes away, managing their estate often involves going through probate. In Massachusetts, this process includes steps that ensure the proper distribution of assets, payment of debts, and finalization of legal matters. Each phase, from filing initial paperwork to distributing the estate, is designed to protect the interests of...
National Estate Planning Week: A Timely Reminder to Secure Your Future
By Erin L. Nunes, Partner at Surprenant & Beneski, P.C.
National Estate Planning Week, October 21-27, 2024, offers an ideal opportunity to reflect on your personal and financial goals and ensure your legacy is protected. As...
Case Study: The Importance of Early Estate Planning
Case Study Prepared by Silvia Sales, MassHealth Case Manager
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Client Background:
A husband and wife sought legal advice due to the wife's need for in-home care. Neither spouse had previously considered estate...