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Estate Planning for Families with Accessory Dwelling Units
Last time I discussed how a new law has simplified the creation of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and how ADUs can help elders and people with disabilities live at home for as long as possible. I am so excited about the possibilities this opens for elders and disabled persons...
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New Law Makes It Easier to Build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Massachusetts
The cost of housing has skyrocketed nationwide, and the problem is particularly acute in Massachusetts. Fortunately, the Affordable Homes Act, signed into law by Governor Healey last August, allows property owners to build an ADU without having to get special or discretionary approval from the local zoning board. The...
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Understanding the Social Security Fairness Act—and Who Benefits from It
Great news for certain retirees in Massachusetts and across the country! The Social Security Fairness Act (SSFA), which was signed into law by former President Biden, eliminates rules that reduced Social Security benefits for certain retirees receiving income from public pensions. Nearly three million teachers, firefighters, police officers, and other public sector...
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If You Haven’t Reviewed Your Estate Plan Lately, the New Year is a Great Time to Do So
Your estate plan must be kept up to date to ensure it continues to meet your needs and achieve your goals. As you think about the changes you want to make in the coming year, I hope you’ll also reflect upon the changes that took place in your life last year… and...
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A Year’s-End Thank You to Caregivers, and a Reminder: Please Care for Yourselves
Caregivers often devote so much time and energy to caring for a loved one that they fail to take adequate care of themselves. This problem has become so prevalent that there is a term for it: caregiver burnout.If you serve as the caregiver in your family, you must understand and recognize the...
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Watch Out for these Online Scams Targeting Elders
According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers lost more than $10 billion to fraud in 2023. Worse, elders are particularly vulnerable, especially to online scams. The FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center announced that Americans over the age of 60 were defrauded of approximately $3.4 billion in 2023, up 11% from 2022. It is...
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What You Need to Know About Medicare Advantage Plans
With Medicare open enrollment underway, I want to share my thoughts—and my concerns—about Medicare Advantage plans. As you will see, I do not think Medicare Advantage plans are inherently bad, but it’s important to do some research to determine whether it is the best option for you.Let’s begin with a definition. Medicare Advantage is...
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An Introduction to Probate in Massachusetts
Let’s begin with a definition: Probate, in general, is the process of validating a will (if there is one), identifying the decedent’s assets, and authorizing a personal representative to distribute these assets according to Massachusetts law. The process takes about a year, although in situations involving complex estates, family infighting, or disputes...
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How PACE Helps Elders Reside at Home for as Long as Possible
As most of you know, I am committed to helping elders live at home for as long as possible. My last two articles have focused on MassHealth programs that help elders accomplish this goal. You can find these articles here. Now I’d like to discuss another option: PACE (Program...
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