If you live in Maryland, odds are, you have one frustration in common with New Jersey residents: these two states are the only ones that straddle residents with both an estate tax as well as an inheritance tax. Fortunately, a new Maryland law puts into place incremental increases in your estate tax exclusion. This is one reason why now is a great time to review your estate plan. Increasing Exclusion Amounts You may recall that the state’s exclusion amount was at $1 million. Now, though, … [Read more...] about Maryland Estate Tax Changes
Massachusetts Adult Guardianships
Massachusetts Adult Guardianships from Daniel DeBruyckere The guardian must meet the needs of the adult, provide social, educational and medical access, assist with various benefits programs and more Any person with an interest in the welfare of the adult can file a Petition for Guardianship. Learn more about Massachusetts Adult Guardianships in this presentation. … [Read more...] about Massachusetts Adult Guardianships
Was B.B. King Murdered?
We knew there would most likely be a battle over legendary musician B.B. King’s estate, but accusations of murder? This has surprised everyone. Las Vegas is indeed launching a homicide investigation at the request of King’s two daughters, Karen Williams and Patty King. Estate Executor King’s estate executor and manager, Laverne Toney, is specifically named by the two women. You may recall King’s death at the age of 89 on May 14 in Las Vegas. King has maintained a residence there for years. … [Read more...] about Was B.B. King Murdered?
How Life Insurance Helps with a Terminal Illness
Terminal illnesses are on the rise in the U.S. Cancer deaths are growing faster than many realize and heart disease is increasing each year as well. For many, life insurance policies provide some relief with covering the costs associated with a loved one’s terminal illness. Whether it’s the overwhelming medical costs or the costs associated with a funeral, these policies provide a peace of mind that allows you to focus on your loved ones and the grief that comes with the loss. If you’re … [Read more...] about How Life Insurance Helps with a Terminal Illness
Free Report: New Hampshire Digital Assets – The Pandora’s Box in Estate Planning
All of this might soon change. The Uniform Law Commission—an organization that drafts laws it wishes to pass in every state – has drafted the Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act, which would give fiduciaries the same rights over online estates as they now have over physical estates. Topics covered in this report include: Consider these accountsYour Online Accounts Outlive YouThe ISP Position Click here to read the whole article or download the PDF. … [Read more...] about Free Report: New Hampshire Digital Assets – The Pandora’s Box in Estate Planning
Another HIPAA Delay Makes Medical Power of Attorney Crucial
For three years, we’ve heard how phase 2 of the HIPAA compliance regulations will “soon” be put into place. Now, though, during a conference last week, the Office for Civil Rights told those in attendance that the program is still “under development”. Attorney Alessandra Swanson, who is an OCR team leader from the agency's Chicago office, declined to comment on a timeline or when the new HIPAA audits might begin. The audits help ensure those safety mechanisms are in place and working as they … [Read more...] about Another HIPAA Delay Makes Medical Power of Attorney Crucial
Why the Latest Estate Tax Political Move Doesn’t Matter
In a new Rasmussen poll released last week, we learned that just 3 percent of Americans believe Congress is doing an “excellent” job. Just 7 percent say the job they’re doing is “good”. The other 90 percent say Congress is doing either “fair” (28 percent) or “poor” (59 percent). One reason could be because what little movement there is on Capitol Hill affects so few Americans. One example is the passage of a bill by the House of Representatives last month. This bill focuses on repealing the … [Read more...] about Why the Latest Estate Tax Political Move Doesn’t Matter
New Hampshire Elder Financial Abuse
New Hampshire Elder Financial Abuse from Daniel DeBruyckere Medical Powers of Attorney are good too, especially considering the growing number of elderly who are victims of financial abuse are often physically abused as well. Learn more about New Hampshire Elder Financial Abuse in this presentation. … [Read more...] about New Hampshire Elder Financial Abuse
Free Report: Congress Passes ABLE Act of 2014
The key takeaway is that there now exists a way for those with disabilities to better prepare for their future without compromising the benefits they already receive. Like the college accounts, others can contribute to the ABLE accounts and the passage of the law also provides, for the first time in many years, options. To learn more about the ABLE Act, Medicaid and Social Security and to see if you qualify for any of these programs, we invite you to contact our offices today. Topics … [Read more...] about Free Report: Congress Passes ABLE Act of 2014
CMS Announces Finalization of 2016 Medicare Payment and Policy Updates
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, or CMS, announced last week its final program changes for both the Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription Drug Programs. It says the changes reflect “fair and accurate payments to plans, and encourage the delivery of high-quality care for all populations.” Andy Slavitt, acting CMS Administrator, explains, “These policies strengthen Medicare Advantage for current and future consumers by encouraging higher quality care. As the Medicare … [Read more...] about CMS Announces Finalization of 2016 Medicare Payment and Policy Updates
