In Massachusetts, your home is likely one of your most valuable assets, and protecting it is a key concern for many families. The Massachusetts Homestead Protection Act allows homeowners to safeguard a portion of their home’s equity from creditors. This protection can offer peace of mind, knowing that your home remains secure...
Estate Planning Blog – Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes
The Importance of Advance Directives for Single Seniors
As we age, planning for future medical care becomes increasingly important, especially for single seniors who may not have immediate family members to rely on. In Massachusetts, an Advance Directive, often referred to as a living will, helps ensure that your healthcare wishes are respected if you’re unable to make decisions for...
Thanksgiving Family Discussions: Using the Holiday to Update Your Estate Plan
Thanksgiving brings families together, making it an ideal time to talk about more than just gratitude. While sharing memories and enjoying the holiday, it's also a chance to discuss important matters like your estate plan. With everyone in one place, you can ensure that your wishes are clear and up-to-date. These conversations...
Estate Planning Considerations for Single Parents of Young Children
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...
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...