It is possible that a spouse may be responsible for the outstanding medical bills, depending upon what papers were signed when the person entered the hospital or other care facility. Generally, there are some items that a spouse might be…
Boomers are today confronting their own mortality, and that includes preparing to transfer their wealth to children and grandchildren. According to an article in Kiplinger, “Estate Planning Answers for 'Hard' Assets Like Art, Heirlooms,” this will be one of the…
The last thing anyone wants to think about when they are coping with the loss of a loved one is the complex and potentially disastrous tax situation that an inherited IRA presents. A recent article from U.S. News & World…
The typical picture of an Alzheimer’s patient, or someone suffering from any form of dementia, is of an older, fragile person who doesn’t seem to understand who they are or where they are. Recent research has uncovered several different health…
First issued in 1980, and still in use today, are the Series EE bonds, the most common variety of bonds. They were designed for the long game—they pay interest for up to 30 years. With the end of calendar year…
There’s so much to do when a loved one passes away, and it’s hard to focus when you are grieving. Still, there are several tasks that need to be taken care of immediately. Some of the things that need to…
Irrevocable sounds permanent, and it is—and that’s a good thing, says The Patriot Ledge in a recent article, “Sometimes irrevocable is good.” Here’s an example: if you have a daughter-in-law that you’re not thrilled with, leaving assets outright to your…
This sounds zany, but it might just happen. Purple was Prince’s favorite color, and now the estate wants to own a few shades, similar to one created by Pantone in his memory. Everyone has a favorite color, but not everyone…
What you donate—cash, stocks or other investment assets—and how you make your donations—may have an impact on how much of a tax benefit you receive. The Los Altos Town Crier’s recent article, “End-of-year checklist spotlights tax-smart charitable giving,” provides some…
A nursing home is defined by Medicare as a special facility or part of a hospital that provides medically necessary professional services from a nurse, physical or occupational therapists, speech pathologists or audiologists. These rules are specific to a skilled…