Beneficiary designations are the pivotal part of an estate plan in Massachusetts, yet people still tend to overlook it. Here are some mistakes people make when naming their beneficiaries. Not communicating your plans to your beneficiaries The essence of estate...
Saugus Massachusetts Legal Blog
Avoiding the top 3 estate planning errors
Estate planning is a great way to ensure that your loved ones in Massachusetts remain financially secure after you're gone. It's also an effective way to communicate your wishes for your estate's distribution among your heirs. However, there are a few things to keep...
The state wants full repayment from all MassHealth recipients
Medicaid programs help those with limited resources and income connect with medical treatment. In Massachusetts, those who qualify for Medicaid will receive MassHealth benefits. Those living on a limited income or unable to work at all can count on MassHealth to cover...
3 ways the assets in your estate are vulnerable after you die
Your personal property and financial accounts will pass to the people that you love after you die. Your estate plan lets you control who receives what from your estate. In theory, you could earmark certain assets for specific people. Unfortunately, many people become...
When can an estate in Massachusetts bypass probate court?
The primary purpose of the probate courts is to help handle the needs of aging adults or adults with disabilities and the transfer of property from someone who died to their heirs and beneficiaries. Massachusetts probate courts often oversee the administration of an...
Why do people create a separate, durable power of attorney?
To some people, estate planning just means creating a last will. To many others, the process involves multiple steps, including setting up a living will. Your living will is a collection of documents you make now that will protect you in the event of some kind of...
Long-term care planning with Medicaid
Because generations are living longer and financial planning is speculative, arranging for the costly, long-term care is an unavoidable reality. Ultimately, most Massachusettsans will rely on Medicaid for nursing care. It is incumbent on the Medicaid recipient to...
5 tips: Talking to your aging parents about estate planning
It is a conversation no one is comfortable having – discussing end-of-life decisions with your aging parents. Unfortunately, while it is uncomfortable, it is also necessary. Dying without a will or becoming ill without estate planning documents in place can lead to...
How can you afford to care for your parents?
Looking after your parents as they get older can take a lot – a lot of time, effort and especially money. Getting them the care they deserve is no small task, but planning for the prices now may ease the load later. Care can be nearly unaffordable without help. An...
3 steps to avoiding a family fight over your will
The last thing you want to happen after you pass away is for your children and other relatives to fight over your will. You want your estate plan to bestow your legacy upon your loved ones, not cause a lawsuit or bitter feelings between family members. Still, once you...