The SECURE Act has just been signed into law and went into effect January 1, 2020. Short for Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement, the legislation makes sweeping changes to the rules for retirement plan savings. We are in the…
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To help families make informed decisions when placing a loved one in a nursing facility, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services maintains a “Nursing Home Compare” web site. This is a searchable database of skilled nursing facilities nationwide. It…
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The Internal Revenue Service is rolling out a new income tax form specifically for seniors. The 1040-SR is expected to be ready to use for 2019 filing. The 1040-SR includes several features intended to make filing easier for older adults. It is…
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Americans collecting Social Security benefits are slated to receive a cost of living increase in 2020. Benefits will increase by 1.6%. The average retiree’s monthly benefit will increase about $24, from $1,473 to to $1,503. Also, the Social Security tax…
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The Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act became law on June 25, 2019, making Blue Water veterans eligible for disability benefits related to Agent Orange exposure. For decades, veterans who served off the coast of Vietnam argued that, like those who served…
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If you have a loved one in a nursing home or assisted living facility, you would be well – advised to find out the facility’s readiness for a power outage as we head into hurricane season. After Hurricane Irma struck in…
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2019 is the last year that a married person achieving full retirement age can file a restricted application. This Social Security – maximizing strategy, commonly called Claim Now, Claim More Later, is available to those born before January 2, 1954. The strategy…
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We are lawyers, not matchmakers. That said, as elder law and estate planning attorneys we often meet older people who are looking for companionship. With so many people of all ages using online dating sites, we are taking this Valentine’s…
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Beginning in 2019, you will be able to save more in your retirement plans. 401(K) PLANS, 402(B) PLANS, AND MOST 457 PLANS If you are under 50 years old, the annual contribution cap is $19,000 (was $18,500). If you are…
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In a significant development for Floridians seeking Medicaid long-term care benefts, the period during which retroactive benefits are available has been reduced. Beginning February 1, 2019 those qualifying for Medicaid long-term care benefits may receive benefits for a period of 30…
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