Category Archives: Estate Planning

The No. 1 question we hear from people who need to obtain Medicaid assistance in order for their spouse to stay in a nursing home is: How can we preserve some of our life savings and still pay for the nursing home?  Most people do not know that Michigan Law allows a married couple to [...]

Beneficiary Designation We understand that losing a loved one can be extremely difficult.  In addition to being emotionally and physically draining, you suddenly have the responsibility of finalizing your loved one’s estate.  The concept of “estate administration” can be overwhelming and it is difficult to determine what to do first.  The information contained in this [...]

Estate planning is the process of placing your wishes down on paper to ultimately dispose of your property either during your lifetime or after your death. Estate planning is important to avoid probate of your estate, to maintain family harmony, and to transfer your property according to your desires. The ultimate goal is to find [...]

Beneficiary Designation Many people believe that only a valid will transfers assets at their death. In reality, much of your estate may pass to your family by some form of will substitute. A will substitute transfers property without the necessity of probate court. One common example of a will substitute is to own property with [...]

Long Term Care Planning We have heard the reports . . . we are living longer than our ancestors. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee good physical and mental health as we age. The thought of losing our independence because our body is frail or our memory is gone is frightening. Too often we ignore that which [...]

Medicare Federal government health care program for those age 65 or older and for some disabled individuals. Medicare has many parts: Part A -” hospital coverage and Part B -” physician and outpatient coverage and Part D -” prescription coverage. There is limited coverage for skilled nursing home and in-home care. It does not cover [...]

The number one question from people who need to get a loved one eligible for Medicaid is:  How can we keep assets?  Fortunately, if you do some careful planning, there are a few ways to increase the assets that an applicant can keep.  Download our helpful brochure for some information on where to start. Download PDF

Enactment of Medicaid Estate Recovery Program – July 25, 2008 By Nancy Ann Hornacek As an estate planning attorney, I am aware that changes in the law impact a client’s estate plan. The purpose of this article is to familiarize you with Michigan’s recently enacted Medicaid estate recovery program. Estate recovery is a program by [...]