FAQ: What Happens if I Die without a Will?
You’ve heard the statistic: 55% of Americans don’t have a will and there are lots of reasons why If you’re one of those no-will Americans,
Ethan Huizenga March 5, 2019
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Devils, Details, and Deadlines: SSI vs. SSDI – What’s the Difference?
Some of the most impactful work we do involves setting up financial protections for disabled individuals. Part of that process includes exploring federal income benefits,
Ethan Huizenga February 5, 2019
In the News: Iowa’s Highest Court Rules Against Medicaid Applicant
Trusts can be a highly effective tool in nursing home planning. Certain types of trusts are effective even when a nursing home stay is imminent
Ethan Huizenga January 29, 2019
Most People Focus on Estate Plan Documents. Instead, Focus on Goals
So often, we meet with clients who want to “get a will” or “talk about trusts.” And we’re more than happy to talk about those
Ethan Huizenga January 15, 2019
Watch Your Language: Intestate
If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice (“Freewill” by Rush). Estate planning is based on a single choice: will you
Ethan Huizenga January 8, 2019
New Year, New You: How to Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions
Here’s a shocking statistic: according to Scranton University, only 8% of people keep their New Year’s resolutions. Some years I’ve been successful with my resolutions, other years are utter failures. In my experience, the times I’ve been able to keep my resolutions have had a few things in common. Here are three ways to stick with your resolution.
Ethan Huizenga January 2, 2019
Watch Your Language: Grantor
The grantor is the person who creates a trust. No matter what type of trust you have, the grantor is always in charge because they set the trust’s terms. [Read More]
Ethan Huizenga August 28, 2018
Watch Your Language: Snapshot Date
When you first submit a Medicaid application for nursing facility care (and Elderly Waiver, in Iowa), DHS takes a “snapshot” of your financial status as of the date you first moved into the nursing home. This is called the “snapshot date.” [Read More]
Ethan Huizenga August 7, 2018
Watch Your Language: Asset
In the Medicaid world, the term “asset” is used when discussing Medicaid’s transfer penalty rules. As a result, “asset” includes both income and resources. [Read More]
Ethan Huizenga July 31, 2018
Watch Your Language: Resource
The third test in the Medicaid application process considers whether the applicant has too many resources. But what is a resource?[Read More]
Ethan Huizenga October 18, 2016
