Avoid these 7 common Medicaid planning mistakes

Many senior citizens rely on Medicaid to access healthcare and needed services. There are specific income and asset requirements in order to qualify for Medicaid. According to Jeffrey P. Scott & Associates LLC, there are some mistakes to avoid while planning for your golden years. Do not put yourself at risk by giving away your assets too soon. Also, do not apply for Medicaid before you have sold or spent down your assets. Finally, don’t fail to take advantage of Congress approved transfers such as gifting money to disabled children or putting assets into a trust. Long-term care planning is complicated, so consult with an expert for some guidance.

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Facts about estate planning for the everyday person

Coming to grips with your mortality is important. You need to figure out what you want to do with your things for example. Deciding this is called estate planning and there are lawyers who can help you. If you have anything you need to decide who to leave it to. You also need to figure out what you want for your funeral. There are many choices and it will definitely help to hire someone so you make the right choices.

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An incentive trust can help keep beneficiaries on the right path

Let’s face the fact that not everyone is good with money, and if you have some to leave your heirs you may be concerned about this. You can get an incentive trust and that may help. Doing this can insure your beneficiary does what they should with the money, and it will also give you peace of mind. A lawyer can help you set up this or any other kind of trust. Thinking about these things is important if you have anything to leave after your death.

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Wills and trusts: The differences you need to know

Wills and trusts are often confused and there are many differences that people need to be aware of. If you want to create a trust, or a will for people, then you can always use both. If you want to use only one, then there are certain benefits that each one offers. Wills are a lot less expensive than trusts. Trusts require that you put assets into them at first, so it can be pretty tough.

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You should update your will after these major life events

Creating a will can have many benefits, especially if you are the owner of many valuable assets.
Most people die without creating a will, and this brings difficulty to family and friends. A will should be updated at least once or twice. The most ideal time to update a will is after a major life change, and new recipients and assets should be considered when making these changes. This will make it easier for friends and family to access your assets.  Elder law planning can assist in this situation.

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Estate planning: Protect your assets and beneficiaries

Estate planning helps people receive the assets you want them to. It should be done early on, and after any life changing event. One benefit of estate planning is called beneficiary designation, and this says who gets what after you die. Tax and business information should be provided to the beneficiaries. A will should be created and a Power of Attorney designated. Estate planning also indicates whether you would like to be kept alive artificially in the case of a coma.

Read more: Estate planning: Protect your assets and beneficiaries