Monthly Archives:: January 2018

4 Warning Signs Your Elderly Relative May Be the Victim of Financial Abuse

by Tara Cheever ~ Attorney at Law January 26, 2018 Estate Planning, Power of Attorney, Trusts, Wills

Some of the most disturbing crimes against the elderly involve financial exploitation. While physical abuse is often easy to spot, financial abuse can be more difficult to detect, as victims often have no idea they’re being swindled until their money suddenly vanishes.

Most victims are more than 70 or 80 years old, and involve crimes like fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, along with welfare and insurance scams. If you’re caring for an elderly loved one, be on the lookout for the following red flags of financial abuse: 1) unusual financial transactions or spending, 2) appearance of a “new” person, 3) unneeded goods, services or subscriptions, and 4) changes to estate planning documents. READ MORE

IRAs, Annuities and Guardianship: Providing for Your Minor Children after You Die

by Tara Cheever ~ Attorney at Law January 16, 2018 Estate Planning, Guardians for Minor Children, Retirement Planning, Trustee, Trusts, Wills

Deciding guardianship for your minor children may very well be the most vexing decision you’ll make regarding your estate planning. Not only must you trust the appointed guardian to raise your children as you’d want them raised, but you also need that person to be financially responsible with your children’s inheritance. For example, if you have an IRA or an annuity that you wish to pass to your minor children, how can you ensure those funds will be used properly—especially if the person you trust most to raise your kids isn’t necessarily the best with finances? This article will unravel each aspect of this important question. READ MORE

Organizing for Tax (and Estate Planning) Season

by Tara Cheever ~ Attorney at Law January 5, 2018 Estate Planning, Guardians for Minor Children, Healthcare, Tax, Trust Administration & Probate, Trusts, Wills

It’s the start of a new year, which means tax season—and this year’s April 17th IRS filing deadline—is just around the corner. Soon you’ll be receiving tax forms such as your W-2 or 1099s, and you’ll start thinking about the life events that could affect your taxes in various ways. This flurry of tax prep activity is the perfect opportunity to get your estate plan in order, too, and kill two birds with the proverbial stone. Why? Because as you run down your list of “tax prep” questions, you will find that your answers could also impact your estate plan. It’s a new year, and new possibilities are in the air. As long as you’re getting started on your taxes, take a few extra moments to get the ball rolling on your estate planning as well. By getting organized in this way, you’ll be well on your way to making 2018 an amazing year. READ MORE