The New Tax Law Means It’s Time Review Your Estate Plan
While the new tax law doubles the federal estate tax exemption, meaning the vast majority of estates will not have to pay any federal estate tax, it doesn't mean you should ignore its impact on your estate plan.
How Long Will You Live? Four Life Expectancy Calculators
How much you need for retirement depends a great deal on how long you expect to live. There are now many Web-based calculators that can give you an idea of your life expectancy.
Aretha Franklin’s Lack of a Will Could Cause Huge Problems
According to court documents, legendary singer Aretha Franklin did not have a will when she died, opening up her estate to public scrutiny and potential problems.
Fear of Losing Home to Medicaid Contributed to Elder Abuse Case
A family's fear of losing their home to Medicaid may have contributed to a severe case of elder abuse. If they had consulted with an attorney, they might have figured out a way to get their mother the care she needed and also protect their house.
Don’t Wait Too Long to Purchase Long-Term Care Insurance
The older you get, the harder it is to qualify for long-term care insurance. If you are interested in buying this insurance, it is better to act sooner rather than later.
Promissory Notes and Medicaid
A promissory note is normally given in return for a loan. Classifying transfers as loans rather than gifts can be useful because it sometimes allows parents to “lend” assets to their children and still maintain Medicaid eligibility.
Proposed New Medicare Payment System May Affect Beneficiaries
The Trump administration is proposing a new flat rate reimbursement system for doctors who treat Medicare patients. Some doctors worry that the plan may cause fewer doctors to accept Medicare.
New Law Expands Benefits for Chronically Ill Medicare Advantage Beneficiaries
Congress expanded benefits for Medicare recipients with chronic conditions in its latest budget bill. The law gives some Medicare plans the option of covering certain non-medical benefits and also increases telehealth services.
Lawsuit Alleges Assisted Living Facilities Discriminate Against Wheelchair Users
A lawsuit in New York state highlights an issue with some assisted living facilities: No wheelchairs allowed.
Where’s My New Medicare Card? How to Find Out the Status
The federal government has begun mailing new Medicare cards to 59 million Americans. You should keep track of when your new card will arrive and contact Medicare if you don't receive it.
