From the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan alone, the Washington Post reports that more than half of the 2.6 million Americans sent out, struggle with mental or physical health problems upon their arrival home. These health problems stem from the veteran’s time in active military service, more often than not. If you know someone who […]

A Chevrolet truck presented to Tom Brady for recognition as the New England Patriot’s MVP during the Super Bowl will instead pass to his teammate, Malcolm Butler. If Brady had received the truck and decided to pass it on to Butler as a gift, the vehicle valued at $35,000 may have created a taxable income […]

The sole heir to Whitney Houston’s estate, Bobbi Kristina Brown, has been in a medically-induced coma since the end of January. The $20 million worth of assets inside the estate is now in question, especially since recent reports indicate her family intends to remove Bobbi from life support. The estate includes all of the royalties […]

When a trustee becomes incapacitated or passes away, a successor trustee takes their place. In addition to managing the duties held by the previous trustee, the successor must also demonstrate proof of a certificate of trust or affidavit regarding their power over the trust.  The successor trustee may carry on a range of responsibilities related […]

The four-part series on Special Needs Planning draws to a close this week, with a focus on taxes within a Special Needs Trust. Visit the three earlier blog entries this month for the most frequently questions Morton Elder Law receives about Special Needs Planning for your child. Image Credit Question: How is the income of […]

In the wake of the last recession and an increase in competition throughout many markets, businesses can do a lot for themselves by planning ahead with regard to succession. In many cases, doing this can help to mitigate the risks associated with an unclear future.  For family-owned businesses, one of the stages of their lifecycle […]

I just finished delivering a Webinar on Special Needs Trusts Planning.  You can watch the replay below.

When your loved one is preparing to enter a nursing home, you may do some research on your own or even consult with a financial planner regarding spending down assets. In order to qualify for Medicaid, many older couples in this situation start figuring out the most appropriate way to spend down assets. If you […]

During the State of the Union address, Obama suggested a proposal to end the “step-up” provision for capital gains taxes. Although this would require the approval of Congress, there are major ramifications for estate planning if this were ever implemented. This kind of proposal would eradicate a big tax benefit linked to inheritances.  While the […]

Susan Schneider, the widow of Robin Williams, is taking the children from Williams’ prior marriage to court, arguing that they have been removing property from the home she shared with him. According to Schneider, memorabilia, jewelry, and other items have been taken from the home. She wants the court to exclude these items even if […]