Planning for the Unexpected

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Why Proactive Planning is Your Best Defense Against Life’s “What Ifs”

Life is unpredictable. While we can’t control every challenge that comes our way, we can control how prepared we are to face them. A well-thought-out plan is the most powerful tool you have to protect your family and your assets from the unexpected. However, an estate plan is only effective if it is current.

On average, people go 20 years without updating their legal documents. In that time, laws change, families grow, and financial situations evolve, often rendering an old plan obsolete when it’s needed most.

The Importance of Regular Reviews

Just as you would with any other aspect of your life—your finances, your career, your health—your legal plans require regular check-ups. We recommend that seniors review their documents with an attorney at least every five years. This ensures your plan still aligns with your wishes and complies with the latest laws, providing a solid foundation for your family’s security.

Planning for the Biggest “What If”: Long-Term Care

For many families, the most significant and unexpected challenge is the need for long-term care. A sudden health crisis can force families to make difficult decisions under immense pressure, often without knowing what resources are available to them.

Proactive planning is the key to navigating this challenge. Our firm’s free educational seminars are designed to empower families with the information they need before a crisis hits. We cover essential topics like:

These programs can provide crucial financial support, but the eligibility rules are complex. Our seminars help you understand how these programs work and how you can protect your assets while still qualifying for benefits.

A Critical Update for Veterans

For wartime veterans and their spouses, the VA offers a long-term care benefit called “Pension” (often referred to as Aid & Attendance). However, a significant rule change in late 2018 affects eligibility: purchasing certain types of annuities can now trigger a penalty period, potentially denying you access to this valuable benefit. This is a critical detail that highlights the importance of seeking up-to-date, professional advice.

Take Control of Your Future

Planning for the unexpected is not about predicting the future; it’s about taking control of it. By regularly reviewing your legal and financial strategies, you can ensure that you and your family are prepared for whatever life may bring.

If you have questions about your existing documents or want to learn more about planning for long-term care, our attorneys can help. Call our office at (919) 256-7000 to schedule a consultation.