Watch Your Language: Gifting Power
QUOTE Effective long-term care planning can require gifting assets to a spouse or child. In Medicaid cases, assets must be transferred to the community spouse
Ethan Huizenga
February 12, 2019
Here’s Why You Need an Estate Plan
No matter what line of work you are in, estate planning has facets that apply to everyone, and it comes down to documenting wishes and avoiding probate and unnecessary taxes. Too many people put it off, but, in general, the sooner you do it, the better.
Ethan Huizenga
February 11, 2019
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
Confused about Trusts? Let’s Talk About Buckets Instead
Across the board, legal documents can be confusing. Just think about the paperwork needed to take out a mortgage – the legalese is overwhelming. And
Ethan Huizenga
January 22, 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: Beneficiary
The beneficiary is what it sounds like: the person who receives the benefit from a trust. [Read More]
Ethan Huizenga
September 11, 2018
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
