What is Capacity Assessment? Capacity assessment is a process used to determine an individual’s ability to make decisions and understand the consequences of those decisions. It is often used in legal and financial planning to assess whether an individual has the mental capacity to make decisions related to their own welfare, property, or finances. Capacity … Read more
I. What are Long-term Care Costs? Long-term care costs refer to the expenses associated with receiving ongoing assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and medication management. These costs can also include services provided in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or by home health aides. Long-term care costs can vary … Read more
What are Survivor Benefits? Survivor Benefits are benefits provided by the Social Security Administration to the surviving family members of a deceased individual who was receiving Social Security benefits. These benefits are designed to provide financial support to the family members who were dependent on the deceased individual’s income. Who is eligible for Survivor Benefits? … Read more
I. What is a Roth IRA? A Roth IRA, or Individual Retirement Account, is a type of retirement savings account that offers tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals in retirement. Unlike a traditional IRA, contributions to a Roth IRA are made with after-tax dollars, meaning that withdrawals in retirement are not subject to income tax. This … Read more
What is Guardianship? Guardianship is a legal relationship in which a person, known as a guardian, is appointed by a court to make decisions on behalf of another person who is unable to make decisions for themselves. This person is typically a minor child, an incapacitated adult, or an elderly individual who is no longer … Read more
What is Spousal Support? Spousal support, also known as alimony or spousal maintenance, is a legal obligation for one spouse to provide financial support to the other spouse during or after a divorce or separation. This support is typically paid on a regular basis and is intended to help the recipient spouse maintain a standard … Read more
What is an Advanced Directive? An Advanced Directive is a legal document that allows individuals to outline their preferences for medical treatment and end-of-life care in the event that they are unable to communicate their wishes. This document ensures that a person’s healthcare decisions are respected and followed, even if they are incapacitated or unable … Read more
I. What are Estate Taxes? Estate taxes, also known as inheritance taxes or death taxes, are taxes imposed on the transfer of a deceased person’s estate to their heirs or beneficiaries. These taxes are typically levied on the total value of the estate, including assets such as real estate, cash, investments, and personal belongings. The … Read more
What is Medicare? Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage for individuals who are 65 years old or older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. It was established in 1965 and is administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Medicare helps cover a … Read more
What is the Community Spouse Resource Allowance (CSRA)? The Community Spouse Resource Allowance (CSRA) is a term used in Medicaid planning to refer to the amount of assets that a spouse who is not applying for Medicaid can retain while their partner is receiving Medicaid benefits for long-term care. The CSRA is designed to prevent … Read more