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Medicaid

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Living Trusts

  • The Three Advantages to the Revocable Living Trust   
    Description: The advantages to the REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST are as follows: Saves Time. The Trust greatly reduces the time it takes to settle the estate.
  • Understanding Financial and Legal Planning Techniques: Management of a Family Business or Real Estate With a Trust   
    Description: When you own their own business, and only some of the family work in that business, or when they own a parcel of real estate, (like a family home or vacation condo) which you hope will remain in the family for future generations, a trust is a useful vehicle for planning for future succession for the management of the business or real estate parcel, and how the future uses and benefits should be shared. You can dictate, through your trust, who will succeed to management, what the manager's responsibilities will be, the degree to which other members of the family will participate in management decisions, and how subsequent successors will be named. Such provisions are not unlike those which would be contained in a partnership agreement if some members of the second generation are already owners or if members of other families are present.
  • What is the difference between a will and a trust?   
    Description: People always ask, what is the difference between these two documents? Will or trust, I'm still leaving my assets to the people I care most about, right? Sure, that is true, but there are several key differences between the two.
  • Lessons On Probate and the Benefit of a Trust From Michael Jackson's Estate Distribution   
    Description: A trust, unlike a will, can avoid the probate court process when used properly. By not transferring assets into your trust, however, you undermine some of the key benefits of a trust privacy, avoiding probate court and decreasing the chances of a family fight.
  • Myths about Revocable Living Trusts, Lawyers and Estate Planning. You want the best Elder Law Attorney and Estate Planning Attorney on your side. Call us for a FREE consultation at (800) 879 0984   
    Description: If you are interested in speaking with an expert Pennsyvania Estate Planning Lawyer, contact us for a free consultation at (800) 879-0984. We are experienced Pittsburgh Elder Law Attorneys proud to help those too often forgotten about. Myths about Revocable Living Trusts, Lawyers and Estate Planning. You want the best Elder Law Attorney and Estate Planning Attorney on your side. Call us for a FREE consultation at (800) 879 0984
  • Is your living trust complete?   
    Description: If you have a living trust or are thinking of creating a living trust, there are certain components that your trust should contain. There are also documents and information that you should include in or with your trust to ensure that your trust is properly executed. Don’t leave your loved ones in a state of confusion – take the time to review your living trust with your estate planning lawyer to ensure that it is complete.
  • Living Trust Overview   
    Description: A living trust can be a very important document to help manage your estate, protect your assets and your privacy, and give you peace of mind. An experienced elder law attorney like those at Shields and Boris can help you better understand living trusts and how they can work for you. Contact us at 800-879-0984.
  • The Differences between a Revocable and Irrevocable Living Trust   
    Description: Living trusts are a powerful estate planning tool, but can be confusing to some people. This article provides a simple overview of the difference between revocable and irrevocable living trusts. To learn more about living trusts and how one could enhance your estate planning efforts, please contact the elder and estate law attorneys of Shields and Boris toll-free at 1-800-879-0984.

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Estate Administration and Probate

  • What Determines the Necessity For Probate?   
    Description: Probate establishes that the decedent's will was duly executed, published and attested, as required by law, and that the testator was of sound mind at the time the testator created the will. If there is no will, the probate process will insure that the individual or individuals empowered under the intestacy statue in Pennsylvania are appointed and that the intestate beneficiaries receive their lawful share of the estate. However, in many instances, the probate of a will is neither necessary and, in some cases, not advisable.
  • What happens in Estate matters when an individual becomes incompetent?   
    Description: If an individual is incompetent, he or she will likely not be able to revise his or her Will or Living Trust. The individual may have left a Power of Attorney with the power to make certain gifts to individuals, especially transfers to spouses or charities. This would help to reduce the individual's estate, but again there may be no effect on Medicaid eligibility. Limited gifting versus unlimited gifting powers can be important. Springing powers of attorney can be problematic under HIPAA.
  • When Pennsylvania Estate Recovery Can Take Place By Law   
    Description: Upon the death of a medicaid recipient, the Department of Public Welfare must pursue recovery of funds expended for the decedent. Estate recovery is required for any person age 55 years and older, and for whom Pennsylvania paid for nursing facilities services or care received from home and community based services. If an estate is probated, the personal representative must obtain a release by DPW that no repayment of funds is due to the Commonwealth.
  • Joint Bank Accounts - Risks and Benefits   
    Description: There is also the inheritance tax risk that, if the younger co-tenant dies first, the older one will owe inheritance tax on the portion he/she inherits which often means he/she will be paying inheritance tax on his/her own money!
  • Guidelines for Gifts and Joint Accounts   
    Description: The joint ownership of property may affect Medicaid eligibility. Joint ownership of accounts will certainly be countable resources subject to the rights of the community spouse. An outright gift is the simplest and easiest technique. An outright gift removes the asset from the donor's estate immediately. However, thought must be given to the amount, use, and financial experience of the recipient.
  • Intestacy Laws Of Pa: Dangers of Not Having a Current Living Will   
    Description: Many do not realize that, at the death of a child, the deceased child's spouse is not an automatic heir. Many do not even realize that Pennsylvania's intestate law does not care which relatives sent Christmas cards, or, at least, kept in touch, and which one have not been heard from in years. Sometimes, the more detached relatives turn out to be those favored under intestate law.
  • Drafting Wills That Protect Clients' Interests: Every situation is different, which is why we select vehicles that meets each client's needs   
    Description: Proper estate planning should also include a Financial Power of Attorney, and a Healthcare Power of Attorney, as well as Living Will. Trusts may be included in the Will as Testamentary Trusts or may be set up separately and include Revocable "Living Trusts" or an Irrevocable trust.
  • Long Term Care Insurance Details - Legally Bonded Caregiving. Contact us for a FREE consultation for long-term care planning.   
    Description: The process for becoming a legally bonded caregiver involves contacting an insurance carrier in order to purchase a surety bond. The surety bond provides a financial guaranty in the event that services provided are not up to required standards or some financial loss is experienced by the individual receiving the care services. In many jurisdictions, a surety bond is needed to obtain a license to become a qualified or certified long term caregiver
  • Philip K. Dick’s estate accuses Google of infringement   
    Description: Google may be excited with the recent release of the Nexus One “superphone”, but one organization that isn’t so thrilled about the new mobile outing is the estate of late science fiction author Philip K. Dick.

    Electric Shepard Productions, the company which stewards and manages adaptations of Dick’s published works takes offense that Google did not seek permission from Dick’s family to use the “Nexus One” name before going public.
  • 20 Questions to Find Best Home Health Care Agency   
    Description: At this point, it is important to understand the difference between home health care and home care services. Although they sound the same (and home health care may include some home care services), home health care is more medically oriented. While home care typically includes chore and housecleaning services, home health care usually involves helping seniors recover from an illness or injury. That is why the people who provide home health care are often licensed practical nurses, therapists, or home health aides. Most work for home health agencies, hospitals, or public health departments that are licensed by the state.
  • With increasing interest in reverse mortgages as a potential source for retirement income, we want to help consumers make informed decisions regarding the use of home equity to help fund one’s retirement.   
    Description: When it comes to making the right legal and financial decisions pertaining to long-term care, you want the best Elder Law attorney on your side! Shields and Boris Law Office provides experienced professionals who concentrate SOLELY on Elder Law - issues such as Medicaid, Medicare, Asset Protection, Veterans Benefits, Special Needs, Wills, Trusts, Estate Taxes, Probate, and how you can protect the money you've worked your entire life for so that it goes to loved ones, instead of the government, or nursing home. Call us today for a FREE consultation!
  • Don't rely on Estate Planning advice from someone you can't trust, or from loved ones who may not know the full scope of the law and financial planning. Order one of our books located below, or call us for a FREE consultation to sit down and discuss all your options with an experienced, legal professional.   
    Description: Don't rely on Estate Planning advice from someone you can't trust, or from loved ones who may not know the full scope of the law and financial planning. Order one of our books located below, or call us for a FREE consultation to sit down and discuss all your options with an experienced, legal professional.
  • Don't rely on Estate Planning advice from someone you can't trust, or from loved ones who may not know the full scope of the law and financial planning. Order one of our books located below, or call us for a FREE consultation to sit down and discuss all your options with an experienced, legal professional.   
    Description: Don't rely on Estate Planning advice from someone you can't trust, or from loved ones who may not know the full scope of the law and financial planning. Order one of our books located below, or call us for a FREE consultation to sit down and discuss all your options with an experienced, legal professional.
  • Don't rely on Estate Planning advice from someone you can't trust, or from loved ones who may not know the full scope of the law and financial planning. Order one of our books located below, or call us for a FREE consultation to sit down and discuss all your options with an experienced, legal professional.   
    Description: Don't rely on Estate Planning advice from someone you can't trust, or from loved ones who may not know the full scope of the law and financial planning. Order one of our books located below, or call us for a FREE consultation to sit down and discuss all your options with an experienced, legal professional.
  • What To Do When A Loved One Dies   
    Description: Coping with the death of a loved one is difficult enough. What we hope to accomplish through our book "What To Do When A Loved One Dies" is help you to understand the financial and practical issues that arise during the administration of an estate.

    After reading our book, you are not a legal expert on probate, but we hope we will have made you an educated client and have given you the tools you need to halp you retain competent counsel.
  • The Number One Enemy of Proper Estate Planning   
    Description: Preparing an estate plan is too important for you to procrastinate. The number one enemy of proper estate planning is taking the first step. Failure to plan is planning to fail, and I personally would rather have a plan in place and not need it for years rather than need it and not have it in place.
  • Confused by all the recent Pennsylvania law changes regarding Elder Law? Shields and Boris Law Firm have accredited, experienced legal and financial professionals to answer all your questions, including the importance of putting in place a power of attorney. You want the best attorney advising you, someone you can trust. Call us and get the peace of mind you were searching for.   
    Description: Are you worried you're making the right decision about your Estate Planning? Confused by all the recent Pennsylvania law changes regarding Elder Law? Shields and Boris Law Firm have accredited, experienced legal and financial professionals to answer all your questions, including the importance of putting in place a power of attorney. You want the best attorney advising you, someone you can trust. Call us and get the peace of mind you were searching for.
  • Death and debts: what survivors can expect   
    Description: Are you worried about dying with more debt than your estate is worth or are you worried that you’ll be left with a loved one’s financial obligations? Take a deep breath – it may not be as bad as you think. Unless you are a spouse or unless you cosigned on a loan or other obligation, you may be off the hook.
  • Three ways to keep your estate out of probate   
    Description: One concern of many individuals and couples when they work on their estate plan is how to avoid probate in Pennsylvania. There are a number of different ways that you can keep your assets from having to go through a very public probate process, and we summarize three major ones here. Living wills, joint tenancy and tenancy by the entirety, and payable or transfer on death designations are all important tools for you to use in avoiding probate.
  • Estate administration and online accounts: logins, passwords, and big headaches   
    Description: Many of us take for granted how much information we keep track of online. Not only do many people have password-protected accounts for everything from investment portfolios to life insurance to savings, but they also keep photos, blogs, and social networking accounts online. This tangle of online password-protected information can create a real headache for survivors of your estate after you pass. Get some ideas on how to make things easier on your loved ones, and please contact the elder and estate law attorneys of Shields and Boris toll-free at 1-888-444-4093 to discuss this and other estate planning matters.
  • YOU’VE BEEN NAMED EXECUTOR…NOW WHAT?   
    Description: A good friend or family member is having a will drawn up and asks whether you would be willing to act as the executor. This article is a general overview of the estate administration process and the role of the executor in it. Contact us toll free at 1-800-879-0984.
  • Three Reasons to Focus on Estate Planning   
    Description: It is easy to underestimate the importance of good estate planning, however all the time and effort you invest in acquiring and protecting your assets could be for naught without a solid estate plan. There are a number of reasons that you should consider investing in an estate plan, and this article highlights three of them. If you would like to find out more about how an estate plan can work for you, please contact the elder and estate law attorneys of Shields and Boris toll-free at 1-800-879-0984.
  • Confused about the federal estate tax? You’re not alone   
    Description: The estate tax – darkly known as the “death tax” – is a controversial subject for individuals and lawmakers alike. If current estate tax laws persist, the estate tax will disappear in 2010, only to reemerge at 2001 levels in 2011. In order to avoid the chaos that this bizarre law change would cause in financial planning circles, lawmakers are trying to compromise on legislation that would change the estate tax for 2010 and beyond. If you have questions about any estate planning matters, please contact the elder and estate law attorneys of Shields and Boris toll-free at 1-800-879-0984.
  • Do you keep your estate plan and beneficiary list up to date?   
    Description: If you’ve set up an estate plan then congratulations, you’ve taken the first step towards protecting your assets and planning for the future. However, how up to date is your plan? Are the beneficiaries you’ve listed in your plan and on your various accounts current? Are you aware of the consequences of not keeping your plan and beneficiaries up to date? Find out more about estate planning and asset protection by contacting the elder and estate law attorneys of Shields and Boris toll-free at 1-800-879-0984.

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Asset Protection

  • 10 Reasons to Consider Long-Term Care Insurance   
    Description: We believe there are many benefits to Long-Term Care Insurance, and here are 10 reasons why one would consider Long-Term Care Insurance. Of course, as with all legal, financial planning, its vital to speak with an experienced expert you can trust to take care of your best interests. Call us today at (800) 879-0984
  • Solve Eligibility Problems Using the Personal Care Contract   
    Description: For an asset to be considered transferred for fair market value, the transferor must receive something in return. A transfer for love and consideration, for example, is not considered a transfer for fair market value. Like most planning options, the personal service contract is not without risk. Many case workers do not recognize a personal service contract as a transfer for fair consideration and could initially deny benefits. You may be required to request a fair hearing.
  • What Can Seniors and Their Families To Legally Protect Themselves In These Dire Times?   
    Description: It feels like the sky is falling. Every week a client is coming telling us of a job loss or home loss. Medicaid has cut back on funding. The local senior service agencies have three to six month waiting lists for home health care services. The Visiting Nurses are telling us that Medicare has changed how it pays for home care after a hospital stay as well. It looks like quite a few people will be losing services. So what can you do to legally protect yourself in these dire economic times?
  • Gift tax annual exclusion to remain unchanged in 2010. Contact us to see how this factors into your estate plan   
    Description: The Internal Revenue Service recently announced that the 2010 gift tax annual exclusion will remain unchanged at $13,000. The annual amount of the exclusion is based upon the Consumer Price Index, and the exclusion has increased gradually from $10,000 in 1997 to $13,000 in both 2009 and 2010.

    As such, so long as your gifts to an individual are less than $13,000 in 2010, there is no gift tax return required to be filed and no gift taxes are due. A married couple can gift $26,000 to each individual, as each spouse receives an exclusion without creating a gift tax liability.
  • Gift tax annual exclusion to remain unchanged in 2010. Contact us to see how this factors into your estate plan   
    Description: The Internal Revenue Service recently announced that the 2010 gift tax annual exclusion will remain unchanged at $13,000. The annual amount of the exclusion is based upon the Consumer Price Index, and the exclusion has increased gradually from $10,000 in 1997 to $13,000 in both 2009 and 2010.

    As such, so long as your gifts to an individual are less than $13,000 in 2010, there is no gift tax return required to be filed and no gift taxes are due. A married couple can gift $26,000 to each individual, as each spouse receives an exclusion without creating a gift tax liability.
  • This section of the site is designed to provide you with information about your Medicare eligibility and enrollment.   
    Description: This section of the site is designed to provide you with information about your Medicare eligibility and enrollment. You will be asked to answer a series of questions. The number of questions, as well as the questions themselves will be dynamic based on your answers. Once we have collected enough information, we will display detailed information tailored to your specific situation. Please note that Social Security will make the final decision on your eligibility and enrollment status.
  • Choosing whether a Roth IRA is best for you takes a discussion with a qualified financial advisor. Contact us at (800) 879-0984 to find out your best options for estate planning   
    Description: Now that 2010 has arrived, people whose incomes were previously too high to permit them to rollover a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA are calling their investment houses about making conversions. That's because for the first time, even if your annual income exceeds $100,000, you can convert a traditional IRA -- or a SEP IRA, Simple IRA or 401(k) or 403(b) plan held with a former employer -- to a Roth IRA.
  • A look at the specific flaws in the leverage as an asset protection mechanism theory. Contact us at 1 800 879 0984 for more information, or a FREE consultation.   
    Description: A look at the specific flaws in the leverage as an asset protection mechanism theory. Contact us at 1 800 879 0984 for more information, or a FREE consultation. When it comes to making the right legal and financial decisions pertaining to long-term care, you want the best Elder Law attorneys on your side! Shields and Boris Law Office provides experienced professionals who concentrate SOLELY on Elder Law - issues such as Medicaid, Asset Protection, Veterans Benefits, Special Needs, Wills, Trusts, Estate Taxes, Probate, CALL US and see how you can protect the money you've worked your entire life for.
  • Long-Term Care Insurance Health Qualifications - Are You Even Insurable?   
    Description: Most people have some health issues … maybe a bit of hypertension for which you take medication … maybe you even had cancer some years ago. Even people with health conditions may still qualify for long-term care insurance but it really pays to talk to a long-term care insurance professional with access to multiple insurers.
  • Regardless of the amount, any gift that is made is a transfer and is subject to a look-back period of five-years for Medicaid purposes. Call us today for a FREE consultation and find out the best legal and financial plans for your money.   
    Description: Regardless of the amount, any gift that is made is a transfer and is subject to a look-back period of five-years for Medicaid purposes. Call us today for a FREE consultation and find out the best legal and financial plans for your money.
  • When it comes to making the right legal and financial decisions pertaining to long-term care, you want the best Elder Law attorney on your side! Shields and Boris Law Office provides experienced professionals who concentrate SOLELY on Elder Law - issues such as Medicaid, Medicare, Asset Protection, Veterans Benefits, Special Needs, Wills, Trusts, Estate Taxes, Probate, and how you can protect the money you've worked your entire life for so that it goes to loved ones, instead of the government, or nursing home. Call us today for a FREE consultation!   
    Description: Six years after Congress added a prescription drug benefit to Medicare, Democrats in the House and Senate are poised to make a central change that they and most older Americans have wanted all along: getting rid of a quirk that forces millions of elderly patients with especially high expenses for medicine to pay for much of it on their own.
  • Seniors Are Worried About the Possibility of Medicare Advantage Cuts   
    Description: The government-subsidized benefits that seniors on Advantage plans receive — often at premiums lower than Medicare premiums — are real, and are legitimately in danger in some cases if Democrats succeed in their health care overhaul.
  • New Medicaid Laws - Is Long Term Care Insurance the Answer? Is Long-Term Insurance best for you? Call us today to find out the best possible way to legally and financially prepare for long-term care planning.   
    Description: Is Long-Term Insurance best for you? Call us today to find out the best possible way to legally and financially prepare for long-term care planning. Because of the changes in Medicaid laws, we now recommend to clients to at least look into long-term care insurance. It's still not on the top the list as to the number one planning strategy, but it is an option based upon the new law changes that have taken place.
  • Asset Protection - What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?   
    Description: But what happens if one does not or will not improve? What if someone has a degenerative disease such as Alzheimer's, MS, Parkinson's, dementia, etc? Chances are if you have one of these diseases, at some point in time you will need skilled long-term care. Medicare WILL NOT pay for this care. On average, you will also live 8 to 12 years after diagnosis.
    If you have any questions or would like a free consultation call us toll free at 1 800 879 0984. www.shieldsandboris.com Asset Protection, Estate Planning, Medicaid, Medicare
  • What is Medicaid and Why Should I Care?   
    Description: The goal is - qualify for Medicaid as soon as possible by protecting your assets! Don't wait, plan now, so you won't be caught in a situation where you have to spend down your money in order to qualify. With the help of our planning, we can help you to avoid making disastrous decisions pertaining to paying for long term care.
  • Are you prepared for the high costs of long-term care?   
    Description: Planning ahead for your own long-term care needs is a great gift you can give to your family. There are a variety of ways that you can pay for long-term care, all with various pros and cons. The lawyers at Shields and Boris have experience helping Pennsylvania residents with Medicaid asset protection planning and veterans benefits claims.
  • What should you know about the PA Inheritance Tax?   
    Description: The Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax affects your estate planning and without a proper plan, you could be penalizing your beneficiaries by 15 percent. Your assets can be protected by consulting with an expert in Estate Planning at Shields and Boris Law Firm. Shields and Boris Elder Law attorneys are on top of all the latest details regarding updates in laws and taxes.
  • The importance of a durable financial power of attorney   
    Description: What would happen if you became incapacitated unexpectedly? Would your spouse or another trusted friend or family member be able to take care of important financial matters for you? Or, would they have to go to court and ask for permission? To ensure that your finances don’t suffer if you aren’t able to make decisions for yourself, consider a durable financial power of attorney.
  • Estate Planning and Sole Property Ownership   
    Description: Buying property can be a challenging experience for many people, but it is important to inform yourself about the titling options available to you before you sign on the dotted line. Some forms of property ownership can be very beneficial to certain types of individuals, but a poor titling choice can negatively impact your estate planning efforts down the road. This article provides an overview of the sole property ownership type of title.
  • Estate Planning and Tenancy by the Entirety   
    Description: There are a variety of different options for owners looking to hold titles to property. One option available in Pennsylvania is tenancy by the entirety, which is available only to married couples. Understanding the differences between title options is important, because each has tax, probate, and legal ramifications. To learn more about estate planning and asset protection please contact the elder and estate law attorneys of Shields and Boris toll-free at 1-888-444-4093.
  • Estate Planning and Tenancy in Common   
    Description: When considering your overall estate, it is important to examine how you are holding titles to your property. There are a variety of options available, including tenancy in common, a good option for unmarried co-owners or married couples in certain situations. The choice of titling option you select has tax, probate, and legal ramifications so make sure you get expert advice before making any changes. To learn more about estate planning and asset protection please contact the elder and estate law attorneys of Shields and Boris toll-free at 1-888-444-4093.
  • Estate Planning and Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship   
    Description: The decision how to title your property can be confusing, as there are a number of titling options available. Many people select the most common forms of ownership like tenancy by the entirety or tenancy in common, however there are different options that can be considered. One option that can be beneficial for some property owners is joint tenancy with rights of survivorship. To learn more about estate planning and asset protection please contact the elder and estate law attorneys of Shields and Boris toll-free at 1-888-444-4093.

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Veterans Benefits

  • Veterans: do you qualify for more than just a pension?   
    Description: Veterans who are struggling to make ends meet, take heart: you could qualify for VA benefits in addition to your pension. Aid and Attendance (A&A) or Housebound benefits are available for disabled veterans who need special care or for veterans confined to their home or living space. The attorneys at Shields & Boris can help you with your veterans benefits claim.

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General

  • The Seven Stages of Alzheimer's Disease   
    Description: Knowledge of the stages of Alzheimer's disease can serve to be very useful to a patient's family and caregivers. This can better help families and care providers plan for the future. There are typically 7 stages of the disease; however, all experts do not agree that are 7 distinct stages. Additionally, each Alzheimer's patient will experience the stages in different ways and for different lengths of time. Each stage can be defined based upon exhibited patterns of behavior.
  • Three Types of Special Needs Trusts   
    Description: Three types of Special Needs Trusts. The least problematic Special Needs Trust is the third-party-settled trust. This can be either in Inter Vivos Irrevocable Trust or a Testamentary Trust. If the Special Needs Trust is a Testamentary Trust, it is settled law that it will not be counted as a resource for a disabled beneficiary.
  • Future of the Estate Tax: What's Next for Estate Tax? Because Congress hasn't replaced law that expired in 2009, uncertainty is the rule.   
    Description: Because Congress hasn't replaced law that expired in 2009, uncertainty is the rule. While Forbes magazine has estimated Mr. Steinbrenner's estate at $1.1 billion, his heirs pay no federal estate tax because he died in 2010. If Mr. Steinbrenner had died in 2009 when the federal estate tax exemption was $3.5 million and the top tax was 45 percent, his estate would have paid taxes of about $500 million.
  • Alzheimer Care: 6 Advantages to Hiring Home Health Aides Through Agency   
    Description: Many care options are available to a family caring for an Alzheimer's patient. These include services such as Private In Home Care. In home care workers can be hired privately, but we reccomend going through a home health agency. There are many advantages to seeking their help:
  • Feel overwhelmed about a loved one's Long Term Care Planning? Start by ordering one of our many FREE reports found below, and contact us for a FREE Initial Consultation   
    Description: Click One of the following Links to Order one of our FREE Books, or Reports, and you will also receive a copy of our brand new Infomercial "Ask-A-Lawyer" for absolutely no charge!
  • 21 Tips For Adapting a Home For Senior Living   
    Description: If you are thinking of moving into a home, building one that you can retire in, or wondering how you can make your elderly parent’s home easier to live in – there are some things to look for to make living as a Senior Adult or a person with a disability easier. Here is a list of 21 proven helpful ideas and tips.
  • Martha Stewart shares her cargiving experience as well as a plea for the Health Care Bill to include support for the growing elderly population   
    Description: As the health care bill winds its way through Congress, sparking passions, heated debate and countless news stories, I have been struck by the dearth of discussion about a looming health care crisis: In 2011, the first of 78 million baby boomers will start turning 65. We, as a nation, are utterly unprepared for this rapidly approaching "silver tsunami."
  • Contact our TeleDirect Service toll free at 1-800-762-0306 to make your reservation   
    Description: Contact our TeleDirect Service toll free at 1-800-762-0306 to make your reservation
  • One-third of American adults provide care, new report finds   
    Description: After dealing with the death of his mother while he was in law school, Jim Shields dedicated himself to becoming an expert in the disposition of estates after a death. The legal team at Shields & Boris knows that you want to avoid probate if possible and will help you plan your estate to do just that, but we can also guide loved ones through the court process. We will walk with you through this complex process. Let us help you with a free consultation, contact us today 1-800-879-0984.
  • Part 11 of 12 - Facts Every Special Needs Family Must Know About Estate Planning   
    Description: As the parent of a special needs child you and your family confront many challenges. However, securing your child’s financial future doesn’t have to be one of them. Taking the time now to develop a comprehensive financial plan means a secure, comfortable life for your child and piece of mind for you.

    This report is designed to inform families with special needs children about the various kinds of estate plans, suggest the advantages and disadvantages of each, and assist you in identifying the kind of information to gather and share with your lawyer and financial planner.
  • Part 12 of 12 - Facts Every Special Needs Family Must Know About Estate Planning   
    Description: As the parent of a special needs child you and your family confront many challenges. However, securing your child’s financial future doesn’t have to be one of them. Taking the time now to develop a comprehensive financial plan means a secure, comfortable life for your child and piece of mind for you.

    This report is designed to inform families with special needs children about the various kinds of estate plans, suggest the advantages and disadvantages of each, and assist you in identifying the kind of information to gather and share with your lawyer and financial planner.

    You are Your Child’s Biggest and Most Important Advocate
  • Special Report- Part 10 of 12 Facts Every Special Needs Family Should Know About Estate Planning   
    Description: What is the next step? Call 1-800-879-0984 for a no-obligation review of your plan or come to one of our upcoming special needs seminars. The peace of mind that proper planning for your special needs child gives you will far outweigh any time and expense it takes to get a plan in place. We look forward to working with you and helping you achieve that peace of mind for you and your special needs child.
  • Part 9 of 12 Facts Every Special Needs Family Must Know About Estate Planning   
    Description: Call 1-800-879-0984 for a no-obligation review of your plan or come to one of our upcoming special needs seminars. The peace of mind that proper planning for your special needs child gives you will far outweigh any time and expense it takes to get a plan in place. We look forward to working with you and helping you achieve that peace of mind for you and your special needs child.
  • Part 7 of 12 - Facts Every Special Needs Family Should Know About Estate Planning   
  • Part 8 of 12 - FACTS EVERY SPECIAL NEEDS FAMILY MUST KNOW   
    Description: Call 1-800-879-0984 for a no-obligation review of your plan or come to one of our upcoming special needs seminars. The peace of mind that proper planning for your special needs child gives you will far outweigh any time and expense it takes to get a plan in place. We look forward to working with you and helping you achieve that peace of mind for you and your special needs child.
  • Part 6 of 12 Facts Every Special Needs Family Must Know About Estate Planning   
    Description: This report is designed to inform families with special needs children about the various kinds of estate plans, suggest the advantages and disadvantages of each, and assist you in identifying the kind of information to gather and share with your lawyer and financial planner.
  • Special Report - Part 5 of 12 Facts Every Special Needs Family Must Know About Estate Planning   
    Description: Call 1-800-879-0984 for a no-obligation review of your plan or come to one of our upcoming special needs seminars. The peace of mind that proper planning for your special needs child gives you will far outweigh any time and expense it takes to get a plan in place. We look forward to working with you and helping you achieve that peace of mind for you and your special needs child.
  • Part 4 of 12 - Facts Every Special Needs Family Must Know About Estate Planning   
    Description: Call 1-800-879-0984 for a no-obligation review of your plan or come to one of our upcoming special needs seminars. Our seminar flyer is enclosed.

    The peace of mind that proper planning for your special needs child gives you will far outweigh any time and expense it takes to get a plan in place. We look forward to working with you and helping you achieve that peace of mind for you and your special needs child.
  • Part 3 of 12 Important Facts That Every Special Needs Family Must Know About Estate Planning   
    Description: As the parent of a special needs child you and your family confront many challenges. However, securing your child’s financial future doesn’t have to be one of them. Taking the time now to develop a comprehensive financial plan means a secure, comfortable life for your child and piece of mind for you.

    This report is designed to inform families with special needs children about the various kinds of estate plans, suggest the advantages and disadvantages of each, and assist you in identifying the kind of information to gather and share with your lawyer and financial planner.
  • Part 2 of 12 - Facts Every Special Needs Family Should Know About Estate Planning   
    Description: As the parent of a special needs child you and your family confront many challenges. However, securing your child’s financial future doesn’t have to be one of them. Taking the time now to develop a comprehensive financial plan means a secure, comfortable life for your child and piece of mind for you. This report is designed to inform families with special needs children about the various kinds of estate plans, suggest the advantages and disadvantages of each, and assist you in identifying the kind of information to gather and share with your lawyer and financial planner.
  • Important Report - 12 Facts Every Special Needs Family Must Know About Estate Planning   
    Description: As the parent of a special needs child you and your family confront many challenges. However, securing your child's financial future doesn't have to be one of them. Taking the time now to develop a comprehensive financial plan means a secure, comfortable life for your child and piece of mind for you.

    This report is designed to inform families with special needs children about the various kinds of estate plans, suggest the advantages and disadvantages of each, and assist you in identifying the kind of information to gather and share with your lawyer and financial planner.
  • What To Do Immediately When Someone Dies...   
    Description: When someone passes away, the first decision most people have to make is choosing a funeral home or mortuary. As with everything, planning ahead proves easier on everyone. Knowing these tips will save you extra burden during an already emotional time.
  • Why married couples need to focus on debt planning for their estate   
    Description: Do you know what would happen to your spouse if you died suddenly? Would they be taken care of, or would they be saddled with debt and unexpected financial obligations? The best way to avoid any nasty surprises in the event one of you dies is to prepare a debt plan as a part of your overall estate plan. You can take steps now to minimize any impact your debts will have on the surviving spouse should one of you die.
  • The signs of financial elder abuse   
    Description: One sometimes forgotten form of elder abuse happens when somebody takes financial advantage of an older person. Protect yourself by knowing the risk factors for elder financial abuse, the signs that financial abuse might be happening, and what you can do to protect your assets.
  • Updating your estate plan after a marriage, divorce, or remarriage   
    Description: If you have an estate plan in place, congratulations – you are on the right track. However, don’t sit back and forget about estate planning. It is important that you keep your plans up to date, especially when your marital status changes and you marry, divorce, or remarry. To discuss your estate plan with an experienced Pennsylvania attorney, please contact the lawyers at Shields and Boris today at 1-888-444-4093.
  • Protect Yourself with a Durable Power of Attorney   
    Description: Have you considered the importance of a financial or healthcare durable power of attorney? These are documents that can ensure a person you trust is put in charge of your financial or health-related decisions if you become seriously ill or otherwise incapacitated. Learn more about durable powers of attorney or other Pennsylvania estate planning issues by speaking with the Wexford based lawyers at Shields and Boris today at 1-888-444-4093.
  • Safety issues for elders   
    Description: Attorney Jim Shields concentrates on legal issues affecting the elderly. According to the Consumer Public Safety Commission, falls are one of the leading causes of injuries and deaths among the elderly, adults aged 65 and older.

    Falls are the leading cause of product-related injuries involving hospital emergency room visits. To prevent these accidental falls, the CPSC has put together a Neighborhood Safety Network of resources and checklists.
  • Could you be doing more to manage your estate and protect your assets?   
    Description: What do many well-off families with successful businesses have in common? They don’t have up-to-date estate plans, which could compromise their assets in the future. Learn a lesson from the mistakes made by the wealthy and don’t neglect planning for your future. For assistance with your estate planning efforts, please contact the elder and estate law attorneys of Shields and Boris toll-free at 1-800-879-0984.
  • Five Estate Plan Basics   
    Description: The importance of good estate planning cannot be emphasized enough. If you are wondering what basic components go into an estate plan, then start with this article. To discuss your estate plan, living trust, special needs trust, probate, or asset protection questions with an experienced Pennsylvania attorney, please contact the lawyers at Shields and Boris today at 1-800-879-0984.
  • Do you need help with heir planning and estate transfer?   
    Description: Estate planning – while a very necessary activity – can be fraught with challenging situations that must be resolved. It can also bring up uncomfortable questions that may require creative solutions. There are a number of estate transfer and heir planning questions that you can ask yourself now to avoid confusion later on. Find out more about estate planning and asset protection by contacting the elder and estate law attorneys of Shields and Boris toll-free at 1-800-879-0984.
  • Secure your child’s future with a special needs trust   
    Description: Planning for the care of your special needs child can be an overwhelming task, so much that many parents put it off until it is too late. If you are the parent of a special needs child, take the time to plan for how your child will receive care after you pass away. Estate planning and special needs trusts can be important tools to safeguard the future of your family. To learn how you can protect your assets and your special needs child, please contact the elder and estate law attorneys of Shields and Boris toll-free at 1-800-879-0984.

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