When signing a commercial lease agreement, people often rush through the paperwork, trusting that everything is fine. However, not all leases are the same, and such assumptions can be expensive. Once the ink dries, you’re bound by the terms, and the fine print you...
Individuals concerned about experiencing a personal emergency can plan for the unpredictable. Powers of attorney and other advance directives help ensure that people have appropriate support when they are vulnerable due to medical challenges. Powers of attorney...
People often don't think about Medicaid until they need long-term care benefits. At that point, they may not have any time to plan in advance. Qualifying for Medicaid is not easy. The state imposes very strict limitations on current income and countable assets. Those...
Wills are the most widely known estate planning tools for passing on assets. They’re what the majority of people would probably think of first if you asked them what you should include in your estate plan. Yet they are just one of a variety of estate planning tools...
Chances are, the will you draft when you start estate planning won't be the one that will be submitted to probate. New events may occur in your life over time. For example, the birth or adoption of a child/grandchild, divorce, marriage, the purchase/sale of a property...
If you have adult children from one or more prior marriages, it can be challenging to provide for everyone you love in your estate plan. You, of course, want to provide for your current spouse, yet you want the bulk of your estate to remain with those who share your...
When an adult in New York cannot manage personal or financial affairs due to disability, illness or age, the court may appoint a guardian. There are two notable types of adult guardianship in the state, each with a different legal framework and purpose. Here are some...
Adults who have saved for retirement or worked consistently to earn a pension may dismiss the idea that they need to plan for Medicaid benefits. They may assume that a combination of their resources and Medicare coverage might be enough to cover their care costs. They...
Rent-controlled apartments are part of New York's effort to provide affordable housing. If you're living in one or thinking about moving in, understanding the rules can help you navigate the process and ensure you don’t face unexpected challenges. Rent control basics...
When planning your estate, it’s important to understand how Medicaid’s look-back period can affect eligibility for long-term care benefits. The Medicaid look-back period is a key factor in determining whether you qualify for assistance, especially if you're trying to...