Helping our children succeed in the world is one of the greatest joys as a parent. Sadly, when parents have multiple children, conflict can arise when a parent gives or loans money to only one child. Accounting for gifts and loans you’ve made to your children in your estate plan can...
Estate Planning 101: Questions You Should Ask Yourself
Charles Proteus Steinmetz once said that “there are no foolish questions and no man becomes a fool until he has stopped asking questions.” We understand that Estate Planning can be a bit overwhelming and that you may not where to even begin. Start by asking yourself these questions. Then, call our office...
AARP Article: Coronavirus Scams Spread as Fraudsters Follow the Headlines
Beware of robocalls, texts and emails promising COVID cures or fast stimulus payments
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by John Waggoner and Andy Markowitz, AARP, Updated May 21, 2020
En español | Coronavirus scams are spreading nearly as fast as the virus itself. As of May 20, the Federal Trade Commission...
The Risks of Using Co-Trustees or Co-Personal Representatives in Trusts and Wills
When planning your estate, one of the most important decisions you make is choosing the people who will carry out your wishes. Many parents want all of their children to serve together as co-trustees of a trust or co-personal representatives of a will. While this may seem fair, naming more than one...
What is Probate and the Role of a Personal Representative (Executor) in Massachusetts
So, you have been named as the Personal Presentative (Executor) of a deceased person’s estate. The responsibility is not one to be taken lightly. It is encouraged to seek advice from a qualified probate attorney. This article will provide a basic explanation of the probate process and the role and responsibilities...
Estate Planning in the Time of the Coronavirus Pandemic
Social distancing makes witnessing a will difficult but not impossible
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by Kerry Hannon, AARP, Updated April 29, 2020
In the past few weeks, an escalating number of clients have hurried to meet by videoconference and phone with Daniel S. Rubin, a partner at the New...
Helping a Loved One in Assisted Living During COVID-19
If your loved one is a resident in an assisted living community, you’re probably experiencing even more anxiety about the spread of COVID-19. Not only are seniors especially vulnerable, nursing homes and assisted living communities are seeing high rates of the virus.
Your loved one may also have to be in...
Should You Add Your Child’s Name to Your Bank Account or Deed?
The aging process brings about several unique challenges. Elderly individuals might find it difficult to pay their bills on time and manage their finances. Many elderly adults rely on their adult child or children to help them manage their financial affairs. It may seem convenient to add another party to their bank...
Temporary Massachusetts Law Passed to Allow Document Signings to be Conducted Virtually
The team at Surprenant & Beneski, PC is ready and available to assist with your Estate Planning needs. With a new law passed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on April 27th, 2020, our entire process can be completed from the comfort of your own home. It allows notary publics to perform their services via video conferencing until...
Estate Planning Should Not be a Near Death Experience
The team at Surprenant & Beneski, PC is ready and available to assist with your Estate Planning needs. With a new law passed by the Commonwealth, the entire process can be completed from the comfort of your own home. Watch this quick video to see just how safe, easy and efficient it...