Choosing to execute a will is a wise and responsible decision. A will allows you to live with peace of mind knowing that your property will go to those you want it to after you pass away. A will can also contain information on burial or funeral arrangements so your...
Year: 2024
How does joint ownership affect probate in New York?
Joint ownership is a legal arrangement where two or more people own property together. This can apply to various assets, including real estate, vehicles and investments. Whether you're buying property with a spouse, sharing a bank account with a family member or...
Choosing beneficiaries in your will: What you need to know
Creating a will is an essential step in estate planning. Deciding who to name as beneficiaries is equally challenging. Below are suggestions for navigating this complex task. Consider your immediate family When thinking about beneficiaries, your immediate family...
Should you consider a Medicaid divorce?
A Medicaid divorce is a complex and often misunderstood concept in elder care planning. It is crucial to understand what it means, why some couples consider it, and when it might be appropriate. What is a Medicaid divorce? A Medicaid divorce is when a married couple...
What you need to know about a blind trust
If you’re a businessperson, politician or someone who sits on the board of a charitable organization, then you have to be careful to avoid conflicts of interest. This can make it difficult to manage your finances in a way that shields you from real or perceived...
What are the rules of intestacy in New York?
Imagine someone you love passing away without leaving a will. It's a difficult scenario to think about, but it's a reality that many families face. When someone dies without a will, it's called "intestacy." In New York, the state has its own intestacy rules for...
Do final wishes on a napkin count as a will?
The death of a loved one often prompts questions about their final wishes and estate distribution. In some cases, family members may discover these wishes in unconventional forms, such as handwritten notes on a napkin. However, courts scrutinize the validity and...
What you need to know about Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts
Understanding asset protection and healthcare eligibility can be challenging for many individuals. A Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT) offers a strategic solution to this dilemma, allowing for the preservation of personal wealth while maintaining eligibility for...
Know this key requirement before a will can be probated
In New York, a will is a crucial document that details how a person’s assets will be distributed and other issues are settled after they are gone. Having a will is a positive step as it ensures the person – known as the testator – sees their objectives are met and...
Qualifying for Medicaid and protecting your assets
Your potential need for long-term care is real. And if you end up needing a nursing home stay or some other form of long-term care, you’re bound to incur significant costs that can quickly erode the wealth that you’ve worked hard to accumulate. As a result, you might...

