Recent Blog Posts
How to Manage and Protect Your Loved One’s Finances: Tips for Families
As our loved ones age, managing their finances can become an increasingly complex and sensitive task. Whether due to cognitive decline, physical limitations, or simply the challenges of navigating modern financial systems, many seniors may need assistance in managing their financial affairs. However, with this responsibility comes the potential for financial abuse, fraud, and… Read More »
Navigating Medicare Part D: A Basic Guide from an Elder Law Firm
As an elder law firm dedicated to helping seniors in South Florida, we often find that Medicare Part D is one of the more misunderstood aspects of the healthcare system for older adults. Understanding Medicare Part D and how it works is critical for seniors who want to protect their health and finances as… Read More »
Medicare vs. Medicaid: What Seniors Need to Know
Navigating the complex world of healthcare and long-term care can be overwhelming for seniors and their families. Two key government programs—Medicare and Medicaid—serve as essential lifelines, but many seniors and their families struggle to understand the differences between them, the eligibility requirements, and how to use them effectively. At SAMUELS WOOD PLLC, we aim… Read More »
Understanding Social Security: Your Guide to Benefits and Eligibility
What is Social Security? Social Security is a government program designed to provide financial support to individuals during retirement, as well as to the survivors of deceased workers and those with disabilities. Funded primarily through payroll taxes under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA), Social Security is a program that most workers pay into… Read More »
Will vs. Trust: What is the Difference?
You may be thinking about starting your estate planning process but don’t know where to start. Should you create a will, trust, or both? What is the difference between the two? What if you do nothing? Both wills and trusts provide instructions on how to distribute assets and property to beneficiaries after death, but… Read More »
Hurricane Season is Upon Us: Why an Estate Plan Should be a Part of Your Storm Season Readiness
Living in Florida, it’s not a matter of if a hurricane will hit, it’s when. Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and usually peaks in September. Weather experts are expecting the 2024 hurricane season to be busier than average. The Florida Division of Emergency Management reminds Florida residents to begin taking… Read More »
Tips for Having “The Talk” with Aging Parents
Talking about aging, loss of independence, and estate planning is difficult. These topics are emotional but are an essential conversation for every family. Unless you are certain your parents have an up-to-date estate plan for what should happen in the event of their incapacity or passing, you shouldn’t assume everything will be taken care… Read More »
Will My Advance Healthcare Directives Work in Another State?
Making sure your end-of-life wishes are followed, no matter where you reside, is extremely important. If you move to a different state or split your time between one or more states, you should make sure your advance directives are valid in all the states you live in. Did you know that you are considered… Read More »
Step-by-Step General Guide on What to Do When a Loved One First Passes Away: Entities to Contact
Coping with the loss of a loved one is challenging, especially when faced with the responsibility of ensuring their legal and financial matters are taken care of. Often, people are overwhelmed and unsure about the necessary steps to take. This may sound like a daunting process, so we have created a general checklist of… Read More »
Step-by-Step General Guide on What to Do When a Loved One First Passes Away
1It is never easy to experience the loss of a loved one, and it is especially challenging while handling the urgent responsibilities that arise when someone passes. It is not uncommon to be unsure of what to do after a loved one passes away. While it may seem daunting to navigate a loved one’s… Read More »