There’s a lot of bad information on the internet that directs parents of children with special needs to completely disinherit their child in order to maintain his or her eligibility for government benefits such as Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and housing assistance. While such a … [Read more...] about The Worst Way to “Help” A Child with Special Needs
Minnesota Estate Planning
Why You Should Take the Time to Create a Legal Plan Now
If you have a child with special needs, you may be tempted to assume that if something happens to you or your partner, your other children will take care of their sibling. However, it's important to take the time now to create a legal plan for your child so that they are always protected no … [Read more...] about Why You Should Take the Time to Create a Legal Plan Now
I’ve Been Named as Someone’s Successor Trustee. Can I Turn Down the Job?
As part of the estate planning process, Minnesota trust attorneys will always encourage clients to have open conversations with the person they intend to appoint as their Successor Trustee to ensure that they actually want the job if called upon. There are many responsibilities that a Trustee … [Read more...] about I’ve Been Named as Someone’s Successor Trustee. Can I Turn Down the Job?
Can an Email Serve as My Last Will and Testament?
When it comes to estate planning, many people wonder if they can simply write their wishes down in an email and have it be considered a legal Last Will and Testament. While it's true that technology has made it easier than ever to communicate our wishes and desires, an email is not typically … [Read more...] about Can an Email Serve as My Last Will and Testament?
Tips When Choosing a Guardian for your Children
Helping parents to choose a guardian who can raise their children in the event of an untimely death is one of the most important jobs a Minnesota estate planning attorney has. Rather than leaving the decision to a judge (who may choose guardians the parents would never want), working with an … [Read more...] about Tips When Choosing a Guardian for your Children
Why a Last Will and Testament Does Not Make a Complete Estate Plan
While the Last Will and Testament is an important estate planning tool, Minnesota trust and estates lawyers want clients to be aware that there are certain things it won’t accomplish. To start, a Last Will and Testament will only come into effect after you’ve passed away, which means that it cannot … [Read more...] about Why a Last Will and Testament Does Not Make a Complete Estate Plan
How to Make a Charitable Bequest with an IRA
You can donate retirement accounts, such as an IRA, by distributing the proceeds to charity. However, the tax benefits for donating this way are minimal. A tax-efficient donation strategy is to contribute your retirement fund directly to a charitable organization as part of your estate … [Read more...] about How to Make a Charitable Bequest with an IRA
Wedding Bells Later in Life? What Newlywed Seniors Need to Know About Their Estate Plans
Some seniors don’t expect to remarry after a divorce or the death of a spouse. However, life is full of surprises. You could meet someone at any age, even during your retirement years. Many older adults bring various assets and debts into a new relationship. They might also have children from a … [Read more...] about Wedding Bells Later in Life? What Newlywed Seniors Need to Know About Their Estate Plans
Service Dogs: A Lifeline for Families with Disabled Children
Service dogs are specially trained to provide assistance to children with disabilities. They can be taught to support kids in a variety of unique ways that help with daily living and even help in an emergency situation. For families with disabled children, service dogs can be a lifeline. The … [Read more...] about Service Dogs: A Lifeline for Families with Disabled Children