The Costs of the Rising Cost of Long-Term Care
As the U.S. population ages and life expectancies increase, the need for long-term care is becoming an important consideration for many individuals and families.
Blended Families and Wills in Estate Planning
Estate planning for blended families is key to a smooth inheritance process, especially since probate rules and intestate succession law do not treat step and biological children the same when it comes to inheriting.
Understanding Medicaid: What Does Medicaid Cover?
Though Medicaid exists to help those who need it, navigating the specifics of what it covers and does not cover can be daunting. Here are highlights on the basics of Medicaid coverage.
Does Divorce Affect Social Security Spousal Benefits?
As a spouse, you have the option of claiming a Social Security retirement benefit based on your own earnings record or collecting a spousal benefit equal to half of your spouse's Social Security benefit.
Senators Propose Boosting Seniors’ Social Security Benefits
In late March 2024, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) introduced the Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act. The Act centers on changing the formula that the SSA uses to calculate Social Security benefits for older adults.
How to Get a Death Certificate After a Loved One Dies
When a loved one passes away, it's important to get a death certificate. This document is necessary to handle the financial and legal affairs of the deceased person.
Could Medicaid Payback Rules Come to an End?
As of late 2023, the median monthly cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home in the U.S. was close to $9,000. The vast majority of people cannot afford to pay these prices out of pocket over the long term.
States With the Highest and Lowest Assisted Living Costs
Seniors seeking information on assisted living options may find recent data from the Seniorly Resource Center useful. Its new 2024 report sheds light on the costs of assisted living - from the most to the least expensive - across the U.S.
What Is the Difference Between a Will and a Trust?
Wills and trusts are foundational estate planning tools. While each is used to distribute your hard-earned assets to your loved ones, they do so in different ways. Each also has its own distinct uses and advantages.
Be Aware of the Dangers of Joint Accounts
While joint accounts can be useful in certain circumstances, they can have dire consequences if not used properly. Adding a loved one to a bank account can expose you to their creditors and affect Medicaid planning.