How to Handle Sibling Disputes Over a Power of Attorney

A power of attorney is one of the most important estate planning documents, but when one sibling is named in a power of attorney, there is the potential for disputes with other siblings. No matter which side you are on, it is important to know your rights and...

Can I Give My Kids $15,000 a Year?

If you have it to give, you certainly can, but there may be consequences should you apply for Medicaid long-term care coverage within five years after each gift. The $15,000 figure is the amount of the current gift tax exclusion (for 2018), meaning that any person who...

It's Important to Shop Around for Your Medigap Policy

Medigap premiums can vary widely depending on the insurance company, according to a new study, so be sure to shop around before choosing a policy. When you first become eligible for Medicare, you may purchase a Medigap policy from a private insurer to supplement...

VA Pension Eligibility Rules Changing on Oct. 18

Under current law, the benefit of Veterans’ pension is available to veterans and surviving spouses of veterans whether they have made gifts of their assets or not (if they meet other eligibility criteria).  This will change on Oct. 18.  Beginning on October 18, gifts...

Fear of Losing Home to Medicaid Contributed to Elder Abuse Case

A California daughter and granddaughter's fear of losing their home to Medicaid may have contributed to a severe case of elder abuse. If the pair had consulted with an elder law attorney, they might have figured out a way to get their mother the care she needed...

Medicare Extends Deadline for Relief from Part B Penalties

Medicare is extending its offer of relief from penalties for certain Medicare beneficiaries who enrolled in Medicare Part A and had coverage through the individual marketplace. Beneficiaries who qualify will be able to enroll in Medicare Part B without paying a...

The Little-Known Tax on Roth 401(k) Distributions

Employee retirement savings plans come in two main flavors: the traditional 401(k) and the Roth 401(k). The benefit of a Roth 401(k) over a traditional 401(k) after retirement is that distributions from a Roth 401(k) are tax-free, but there is a little-known situation...