Deciphering Gift Taxes
The gift tax is a tax on the transfer of assets, cash or property, to another without receiving something of equal value. The asset has to be of a certain value for the tax to apply; otherwise, it falls under…
Avoid These Scams in 2020
Welcome to the new decade, replete with new challenges to protect yourself against ever-inventive scam artists. One concern has a simple fix but requires your commitment to add two additional digits when signing or writing documents, letters, emails, and more.…
Avoid These Risks in Property Co-Ownership
Although owning a property with family may let you pass on the asset without going through probate, there are several risks, including taxes, creditor exposure, and loss of control. So when dealing with property, it is important to consider these…
Congress Acts to Protect Against Spousal Impoverishment
Federal spousal impoverishment protections were set to lapse in March 2019. Two bills were proposed to deal with that issue. H.R. 1343 is still sitting in the House, but H.R. 3253 was enacted on August 6, 2019. H.R. 1343, or…
Personal Devices That Can Be Hacked
The internet of things (IoT) is responsible for many conveniences via embedded electronic devices, and many seniors are making use of these technologies. It is becoming increasingly common for everyday items like refrigerators, thermostats, and doorbells to be internet-connected making…
Diet and Exercise’s Link to Alzheimer’s
Concerns about your memory or that of a loved one should never be ignored. There are many resources available through a simple internet search, and professional associations that provide education and guidance through a maze of questions you may have…
How You Should Address Abuse in Senior Living Facilities
If you have an elderly family member or friend living in an assisted living or skilled nursing facility, it is imperative that you stay attuned to the signs of abuse to your loved one. The National Center on Elder Abuse…
Be Aware of These Alzheimer’s Factors
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. Alzheimer’s affects a…
Healthy Aging and Family Connection are Related
One cannot overstate the importance of family presence in a senior's life. Family creates a consistent social network and connection that directly impacts the senior's overall quality of life. Prioritizing family relationships provides continuity as a senior experiences change in…
What is a Medicaid Divorce?
Harry and Wanda got married late in life. This was their second marriage, and both had children from prior marriages. The couple wanted their children to inherit from their respective parents, so Harry and Wanda signed a prenuptial agreement to…