By Timothy P. Murphy © 2016 All Rights Reserved MEDI-CAL MYTHS: PART I: YOU GOTTA BE BROKE! Editor’s note: This is the first installment of an occasional series about common misconceptions by consumers about the Medi-Cal Long Term Care program which provides financial assistance in paying for care in a skilled nursing facility. As many of our clients already know, we regularly assist families who are facing care issues for a family member who may need long term care including advice and … [Read more...] about Medi-Cal Myths Part 1
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California’s new Transfer on Death Deed: A Review
New this year is California's new method to transfer title to real property upon the death of its owner. A new law has created a Revocable Transfer on Death Deed (“TOD Deed”). Promoted as a simple and inexpensive way for homeowners to transfer title to certain property to named beneficiaries upon their deaths, there are nevertheless numerous limitations and requirements, including proper completion, execution, notarization and timely recording. If done correctly, the TOD Deed allows the … [Read more...] about California’s new Transfer on Death Deed: A Review
5 Difficult Elder Law Issues and How to Handle Them
When a parent becomes mentally impaired, it is only a matter of time before they need help taking care of their own personal and financial affairs. Some of the common signs of diminished capacity are disorientation and memory loss. When you see these signs, it may be time to consider taking steps to provide necessary care. It would be best, however, to make plans ahead of time. Whichever course you take, there will be many difficult issues ahead, but your elder law attorney can help. No. 1 – … [Read more...] about 5 Difficult Elder Law Issues and How to Handle Them
Nursing Home Planning: Are your Parents Prepared?
Nursing home care can be very expensive. Many private health insurance policies don't cover these long-term care services. For California residents who need long-term care, Medi-Cal is the most common source of funding. In fact, Medi-Cal covers nursing home care expenses of nearly 65% of Californians residing in nursing homes. However, applying for and receiving assistance from Medi-Cal takes planning. Getting your parents prepared for the potential need for long-term health care, nursing home … [Read more...] about Nursing Home Planning: Are your Parents Prepared?
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
Why Irrevocable Trusts Protect Assets
Especially if you own a business or commercial property, asset protection can be a big concern for you. The possibility of legal claims and constant existence of creditors make it even more important to have an asset protection plan so that you don't run the risk of losing everything through some unexpected turn of events. There are different ways to legally protect your assets, including irrevocable trusts. Not every type of trust can accomplish proper asset protection. Here is why … [Read more...] about Why Irrevocable Trusts Protect Assets
4 Myths About Wills and Trusts
Estate planning means preparing for possible incapacity and inevitable death. An estate plan can include many different types of documents, including wills and trusts. The variety of tools available will allow for a customized and comprehensive estate plan. There are many benefits to estate planning and there are some myths as well. Here we will dispel 4 common myths about wills and trusts. MYTH #1: Trusts are only for the rich and elderly One common misconception is that, if you are young … [Read more...] about 4 Myths About Wills and Trusts
What Does an Elder Law Attorney Do?
An elder law attorney specializes in legal issues that relate to seniors and the problems they tend to face. This particular area of the law only became well-recognized in the 1980s when the legal issues affecting seniors became more complicated. The challenges of qualifying for Medi-Cal coverage at a time when the need for nursing home care was on the rise brought to light the advantages of having an elder law attorney for assistance. So, what exactly does an elder law attorney do? What … [Read more...] about What Does an Elder Law Attorney Do?
Develop a Relationship with Your Estate Planning Attorney
Do you know the value of obtaining the advice of an estate planning attorney? Estate planning attorneys are there to guide you through the myriad of choices available in planning for the future. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you to fully understand how to make your wishes and goals for your family become a reality. If you have an estate planning attorney, you should develop a relationship with them because they probably have more to offer than you know. What is an estate … [Read more...] about Develop a Relationship with Your Estate Planning Attorney
