Understanding How Assets Are Distributed in a Will
When creating an estate plan, the main decision is how your assets will be distributed after you pass away. Understanding "per stirpes" and "per capita" distribution is key to that decision.
Medicare Premiums to Increase By Almost $10 a Month in 2020
After small or no increases the past couple of years, Medicare’s Part B premium will rise sharply in 2020. The basic monthly premium will increase $9.10, from $135.50 a month to $144.60.
Charitable Remainder Trusts: Income for Life and a Good Deed at Death
Many people like the idea of leaving bequests to favorite charities in their wills. But instead of leaving money to a charity in your will, you can put that money into a charitable remainder [...]
Three Reasons Why Joint Accounts May Be a Poor Estate Plan
Many people, especially seniors, see joint ownership as an easy way to avoid probate and plan for incapacity, but there are major drawbacks to joint accounts.
The Most Important Estate Planning Documents
Making sure you have the right estate planning documents is one of the simplest ways to have a positive impact on your family's future. Proper planning ensures that your wishes will be [...]
IRS Issues Long-Term Care Premium Deductibility Limits for 2020
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced the amount taxpayers can deduct from their 2020 income as a result of buying long-term care insurance.
Medicaid's Power to Recoup Benefits Paid: Estate Recovery and Liens
Under Medicaid law, following the death of the Medicaid recipient a state must attempt to recover from his or her estate whatever benefits it paid for the recipient's care.
Don't Let Medicare Open Enrollment Go By Without Reassessing Your Options
Medicare's Open Enrollment Period, during which you can freely enroll in or switch plans, runs from October 15 to December 7. Don't let this period slip by without shopping around to see [...]