ARTICLES

Why an Irrevocable Trust Is Better Than a Life Estate for Long-Term Care Planning

Why an Irrevocable Trust Is Better Than a Life Estate for Long-Term Care Planning

When you’re getting older, you might worry about paying for long term care (care at home, in the community, or at a nursing home). These costs can be very high and might force you to sell your home to pay for care. Two ways to protect your home are called a “life estate” and an...
Getting Help in Place Before the Crisis Hits

Getting Help in Place Before the Crisis Hits

Most of us don’t like to think about it, but medical emergencies become more likely as we age. A fall at home, a sudden illness, or a gradual decline in abilities can quickly transform an independent life into one requiring immediate support. The key to navigating these challenges successfully isn’t just having good medical insurance,...
How Estate Planning Can Protect Your Family from Digital Scammers

How Estate Planning Can Protect Your Family from Digital Scammers

What Are Digital Scammers?  Digital scammers are people who try to steal your money or personal information using computers, phones, and the internet. They might pretend to be your bank, a family member, or even the adults and families who have lost a loved one. Why Scammers Target Families After Someone Dies  When someone in...
Don’t Let Scammers Steal Your House: A Massachusetts Homeowner’s Guide to Quitclaim Deed Fraud

Don’t Let Scammers Steal Your House: A Massachusetts Homeowner’s Guide to Quitclaim Deed Fraud

Recently, one of our clients asked a question about property fraud in Massachusetts.  They had heard something about it on the radio and weren’t sure if it was a real issue or not. If you own property in Massachusetts, you should be aware of quitclaim deed fraud. It sounds boring and technical but trust me—this...
Single Transaction Conservatorship vs. Permanent Conservatorship: Understanding Your Options

Single Transaction Conservatorship vs. Permanent Conservatorship: Understanding Your Options

When a loved one needs assistance managing their affairs, conservatorship may be necessary. However, many people don’t realize there are different types of conservatorships designed to address varying needs and situations. Two important options to understand are single transaction conservatorships and permanent conservatorships. What is a Conservatorship? A conservatorship is a legal arrangement where a...
Testamentary Supplemental Needs Trusts: Concept and Value in Estate Planning

Testamentary Supplemental Needs Trusts: Concept and Value in Estate Planning

The Concept A testamentary supplemental needs trust (SNT) is a specialized legal arrangement created within a person’s will that takes effect after they pass away. Unlike standard trusts, these are specifically designed for beneficiaries with disabilities or special needs who rely on government assistance programs like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The fundamental concept...
What to Do After You Sign Your Revocable Living Trust

What to Do After You Sign Your Revocable Living Trust

You just met with your lawyer and signed your living trust. Good job! But your work is not done yet. Unlike a Will which, after it is signed, can be stored away until needed, there are several important steps you need to take next with your trust. Think of signing the trust like buying a...
Removing a Mass Estate Tax Lien to Sell Your Home

Removing a Mass Estate Tax Lien to Sell Your Home

Did you know that when someone dies owning a home in Massachusetts, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts puts an Estate Tax lien on that home?  What is an Estate Tax Lien? A lien is a legal claim that says “you need to pay us before you can sell this house.” The Massachusetts Estate Tax lien arises...
Striving for Family Harmony

Maintaining harmony during the holiday times can be a wonderful goal, as this period often involves increased social interactions, family gatherings, and various activities. Here are some tips to help you foster a harmonious atmosphere: Communication: Clearly communicate plans and expectations in advance. This helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures everyone is on the same page....

Taking Care of the Caregiver

Caring for someone else, especially someone with dementia, can be physically and emotionally draining. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s and related dementias provide care for a longer duration than caregivers of people with other types of conditions (79% versus 66%) and 57% of family caregivers...

5 Important Vacation Preparation Items

Summer is in full swing and many of us are planning vacations – maybe it’s a local holiday to New England’s beaches or the mountains, or possibly something that requires air travel, like a trip to the west coast or “across the pond” to Europe. Before you leave, take some time to review your estate...

Your Vacation Home is a Treasured Heirloom

Vacation homes can mean many different things:  the center of cherished family memories; a reliable vacation spot; an investment for now and in the future.  Passing your beloved vacation property to future generations takes careful planning.  Not surprising, there is no one-size-fits-all planning option to ensure that this treasured real estate is protected from challenges...

3 Legal Documents Young Adults Need

Whether it be heading off to college, a gap year, or entering into the workforce, once our kids reach the age of eighteen, they enter the world as “adults” and are no longer legal minors. We can only hope that we have fully prepared our children for what lies ahead, however there is always the...