The health and safety of our clients, staff, and friends of the law firm are top of mind amid concerns about the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As estate planning and elder law attorneys, our practice is dedicated to serving our most vulnerable citizens, including seniors, those who are ill, disabled, experiencing mental health challenges and children with special needs. The uncertainty around the pandemic has many people with immune system challenges concerned about exposure to the … [Read more...] about Our Available Services During COVID-19/Coronavirus Pandemic
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Assisting Family and Friends During These Trying Times
Before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, many of our clients were already assisting elderly or disabled family member and friends with such things as meals, medications, medical visits and shopping. Regular visits just to check in were also part of many folks’ normal routines. COVID-19 restrictions have had a large negative impact on many of these activities. So, how can you continue to assist under these new circumstances? Here are a few thoughts: Medical Issues Under a federal … [Read more...] about Assisting Family and Friends During These Trying Times
Deciphering Medicare Benefits vs Medi-Cal Benefits
Many folks continue to be confused about the differences between Medi-Cal and Medicare. Both Medicare and Medi-Cal, which is California’s name for the Medi-Cal program, have their originals in federal law. They were originally enacted in 1965 under President Johnson’s Great Society programs. Both programs have evolved over the years. Medicare was focused on providing health care for the elderly while Medi-Cal was focused on providing health care for the poor. California’s Medi-Cal … [Read more...] about Deciphering Medicare Benefits vs Medi-Cal Benefits
BEING THANKFUL FOR CAREGIVERS
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the persons and things we should appreciate and be thankful for. Among those are the caregivers who assist loved ones on a daily basis. It is appropriate that November is National Long-term Care Awareness Month. The number of professional caregivers and care-giving services has increased along with our growing elderly population. However, the majority of caregivers in the United States still are family members or friends. If that is true in your family, … [Read more...] about BEING THANKFUL FOR CAREGIVERS
You Don’t Have to Be Sick to Need Medi-Cal Planning
Simply because you are healthy right now doesn't mean you may not need long-term care when you get older. This is a common misconception shared by many. The truth is, you don't have to be sick to need Medi-Cal planning. You may not have health issues at the moment, but who can predict how healthy they will be in 40 years? An unexpected injury could also leave you with health issues that require long-term care as well. In fact, more than two-thirds of all individuals over the age of 65 need … [Read more...] about You Don’t Have to Be Sick to Need Medi-Cal Planning
How is a Durable Power of Attorney Different from a Living Trust?
When it comes to estate planning, there are so many beneficial options, depending on what you need to accomplish. A durable power of attorney is a common tool. So is a living trust. So, what is the difference and how do you know which one you need for your estate planning. What is the definition of a Durable Power of Attorney? A power of attorney is a flexible estate planning tool that allows you to choose someone who will handle all or part of your personal affairs, including making health … [Read more...] about How is a Durable Power of Attorney Different from a Living Trust?
Medi-Cal Laws are Favorable for Sacramento Residents
Medi-Cal, California's Medicaid program, provides, among other benefits, no-cost or low-cost health insurance for adults age 65 years or older, blind, disabled, pregnant, or in a long-term facility. The program also provides benefits for non-disabled, non-elderly and qualifying adults aged 19-64 whose income levels are at or below 138% the Federal Poverty Level. For Sacramento residents, it is important to know that the Medi-Cal benefits are available if you qualify or you have a loved one who … [Read more...] about Medi-Cal Laws are Favorable for Sacramento Residents
Protecting Your Inheritance with Inheritance Planning
Getting the news that you have inherited money or property from a family member is usually a good thing. For some people, it may be more of a concern. If you receive income-based government benefits, you may be concerned that your benefits will be in jeopardy if you receive a significant inheritance. For instance, if you receive Medi-Cal or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you assets must not exceed a certain amount in order for you to remain eligible. If that's the case, you need to … [Read more...] about Protecting Your Inheritance with Inheritance Planning
Are You Sure a Will Is the Best Choice?
If you are a golfer, club selection is very important to you. The use of the proper tool as it were can make all the difference, and this is also true when you are planning your estate. Many people assume that a Will is the best choice if you are not extremely wealthy, but there are many good reasons why you may want to use a living trust instead. Let's look at the facts. Living Trust Advantages A living trust can provide benefits that a Will would not. You have more flexibility with regard to … [Read more...] about Are You Sure a Will Is the Best Choice?
Preparing for Northern California Incapacity: Part 2 of 2
Preparing for Northern California Incapacity: Part 2 of 2 from Timothy Murphy Is the only way to guarantee that you will be protected if you become incapacitated. Learn more about Preparing for Northern California Incapacity in this presentation. … [Read more...] about Preparing for Northern California Incapacity: Part 2 of 2
