Author Archives: Andre O. McDonald
Medicare vs. Medicaid: What’s the Difference?
Medicare and Medicaid have long been a mystery to many consumers. In fact, it can baffle and confuse even some of the smartest citizens. Like me, you might have thought, “I don’t need to worry about this right now.” However, it is never too early to gain a little understanding and awareness that just… Read More »
Creative Financial Approaches to Long-Term Care Planning
Long term care insurance was sold aggressively in the 1980’s, 90’s and thereafter to offset the costs of seniors needing to live in a nursing home or assisted living facility, or needing at-home health care. Now, however, the business of long term care insurance has dramatically changed. What was once over 100 insurers providing… Read More »
Financial Plan. Tax Plan. Legacy Plan. Estate Plan. How many plans do I need?!
Most folks have at least heard of an estate plan. But fewer realize that a simple will is not enough to prepare for your future. In fact, a combination of plans – financial plan, tax plan, legacy plan, and estate plan – are vital to your financial well-being and protection of your assets and… Read More »
3 Critical Documents to Update After Divorce
A divorce can be heartbreaking, emotional, overwhelming or even liberating, depending on the individual’s prospective. However, the work does not end once the divorce decree is signed. In order to ensure that your assets and estate planning wishes are carried out in light of this major life change, there are three critical documents to… Read More »
The Hidden Risks of Do-It-Yourself Estate Planning
With automation an artificial intelligence (AI) disrupting every sector of the economy, it is not surprising that the legal profession is feeling the impact as well. Today, there are many software programs, as well as websites, that sell do-it-yourself estate planning documents. These websites and form tools seem to offer a convenient and cost-effective… Read More »
I’m Not Married. Do I Still Need an Estate Plan?
Approximately half of America’s population over the age of 16 is unmarried. While much of the discussion involving estate planning focuses on married couples, this topic is just as important for a single person. In fact, many times estate planning for singles and unmarried couples may be even more important than for their married… Read More »
How a Pet Trust Protects Your Pet if You Die (UPDATED: October 2019)
If you ask several pet owners if they have a pet trust for their furry family member(s), most will admit that they don’t even know what a pet trust is, much less have one set up. But whether you are planning to adopt a new pet or already have one (or several), it is… Read More »
4 Keys to Smart Estate Planning for Small Business Owners
Preparing your company for your incapacity or death is vital to the survival of the enterprise. Otherwise, your business will be disrupted, harming your customers, employees, vendors, and ultimately, your family. For this reason, proactive planning – including your business and your estate plan – is key. Below are some tips on business and… Read More »
Is Estate Planning Still Necessary With the Trump Tax Cuts?
Now that Tax Day 2018 is in the rear-view mirror for many Americans, a question many of them will have to reckon with moving forward, is estate planning still necessary with the Trump Tax Cuts? The Tax Cut and Jobs Act was signed into law by President Trump in 2017. The new tax law… Read More »
5 Care Options for Adults with Special Needs
There are numerous care options available for adults with special needs. The options available vary based on the level of care required, ranging from those adults with special needs who are able to be more independent, to those who need advanced medical care. When planning for- or selecting- care options for special needs adults,… Read More »
