Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What Is The Difference Between A Guardianship and Power of Attorney?
If you become incapacitated due to an injury or illness, it is important to have someone who can handle your affairs on your behalf. As part of estate planning and asset protection, seeking a guardianship through the court or having a durable power of attorney in place are two options that grant authority to… Read More »
Protecting Yourself Against Tax Relief Scams
While tax season equates with big refunds for some Americans, others end up facing heavy tax debts. Unfortunately, failing to pay the total amount that you owe is likely to cost you significantly more money in terms of interest fees and penalties, while leaving you open to potential liens or even seizure of your… Read More »
Four Rules For Protecting Your Assets From Creditor Claims
While you may have a solid credit score and take pride in your ability to balance your budget, unexpected situations can easily arise which can put your financial security in jeopardy. Family emergencies, accidental injuries or illnesses, and job-related issues can all strain your income and zap your savings, causing you to fall behind… Read More »
NYC Medicaid and Community Care Services
Remaining at home for as long as possible is a priority for many older adults, but the challenges associated with providing for yourself can be overwhelming. From performing basic tasks such as cooking and cleaning to getting transportation to doctor appointments, there are a number of potential needs that must be addressed. Whether you… Read More »
What Happens If Your Will Is Contested?
Without a properly drafted and executed last will and testament in place, your property and assets are subject to the rules of intestate succession. This process goes up and down through your genealogy, distributing to your spouse first, then to children, then parents, then any siblings. While you may wish for some of these… Read More »
Early Warning Signs That Nursing Home Care Is Needed
Many of us can appreciate when an aging loved one is resistant to the idea of entering a nursing home or assisted care facility. We understand their desire to provide for themselves while remaining in familiar surroundings, but there does come a point that more comprehensive care is needed to ensure their health and… Read More »
Updating Your Estate Planning Documents
Changes in life can happen quickly. Amidst your day to day activities, it can be easy to overlook the impact different circumstances can have on your overall estate plan. To protect your interests and assets, to ensure your wishes are adhered to, and to prevent disputes among your heirs, it is important to have… Read More »
Protect Yourself Against Liability When Accidents Occur
Accidents happen. You put on the gas in traffic, and end up hitting the driver in front of you. You invite people to your home, and someone slips on an icy sidewalk. While there will always be situations in which mishaps are unavoidable, knowing how to handle these situations when they arise can help… Read More »
Will A Presidential Repeal of Estate Taxes Impact Your Estate Plan?
As power transfers from democrats to republicans in Washington, there are increased rumors of a repeal of the current federal estate tax laws. As addressing potential tax issues is one of the goals of estate planning, would a tax repeal make your current estate planning documents obsolete? The answer to that question is no…. Read More »
Protect Your Assets Against Common Tax Scams
With another tax season upon us, the importance of maintaining a good relationship with the IRS by following all tax rules and requirements is vitally important. Failing to file or pay taxes, not reporting income, or claiming a larger refund than you are owed could subject you to fines and penalties, while risking your… Read More »