Living A Full Life with Disability Rights “Growing old is mandatory, but growing up is optional.” – This witty remark, often attributed to Walt Disney, sheds light on aging with a blend of humor and wisdom. Yet, when it comes to disability rights for senior citizens, the matter is anything but light-hearted.  The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a critical legal framework guaranteeing the dignity and support of seniors with disabilities. The ADA is major for the financial planning of families and disabled individuals across the country.   Key Takeaways ADA’s major role ..read more

In today’s digital age, your online life can be as significant as your physical one – especially when it comes to digital assets.  Digital assets, including everything from social media accounts to cryptocurrencies, play a role in estate planning. They hold both sentimental and financial value and need thoughtful management and inclusion in your estate plans.   Key Takeaways Digital assets in estate planning can be important. Identify diverse types of digital assets. Implement steps to manage digital assets securely. Appoint a digital executor for effective asset management. Underst ..read more

How to Settle an Estate: Honoring the Deceased To settle an estate in Montana, families must understand state-specific probate laws to guarantee the deceased’s wishes are honored and that legal requirements are met.  Legal guidance is recommended. For many, this can be an overwhelming and burdensome task.  Estate planning attorneys like the experienced folks at Montana Elder Law can significantly reduce the weight these matters have on your mind.  Key Takeaways Probate is essential for legally transferring assets in Montana. Legal advice can significantly simplify the probate p ..read more

Many families must financially plan for a disabled child – and that involves careful consideration of their future needs and financial security. Trusts, ABLE accounts, wills, savings, and guardianships are strong planning tools.  This guide from Montana Elder Law provides actionable steps and essential information to help you lay a strong foundation for your child’s well-being.   Key Takeaways   A Special Needs Trust manages assets while maintaining eligibility for benefits. An ABLE account provides a tax-advantaged savings option for disability-related expenses. A will directs ..read more

When you receive an inheritance in Montana, it’s immediately classified as separate property (not marital property). This classification is crucial for estate planning and managing assets within a marriage.  Unlike marital property, which is subject to division in the event of a divorce – separate property remains solely with the individual who received it. However, this clear distinction can become complicated if the inherited assets are commingled with marital assets or used for joint purposes.  Anyone managing personal assets in Montana should pay attention to the initial classifi ..read more

In Montana, tax changes are on the horizon. This situation puts estate planning in the spotlight. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions are nearing their end.  What does this mean for Montanans?  These adjustments will inevitably affect how Montanans approach their estate planning strategies, emphasizing the need for timely and informed action. The forthcoming tax changes signal a crucial moment for residents to reevaluate their estate plans, ensuring their financial legacy is preserved and passed on according to their wishes.   Key Takeaways Impending federal estate tax ..read more

Charitable giving within estate planning offers Montanans a powerful way to create a lasting legacy that extends beyond their lifetime. This approach reflects personal values and philanthropic goals and provides significant financial benefits. By integrating charitable donations into estate plans, Montanans can ensure their legacy makes a meaningful impact while confidently navigating the legal landscape. Key Takeaways Recent Montana legislation introduces changes affecting estate planning and charitable giving. Various methods exist for incorporating charitable donations into your estate pla ..read more

Medicaid planning is crucial for Montana seniors facing the complexities of long-term care costs. This guide shines a light on navigating Medicaid’s eligibility criteria, offering strategies for planning and application. It’s tailored to help Montana families understand the ins and outs of securing Medicaid benefits, ensuring seniors can access the care they need without financial strain. Keep scrolling for helpful, informative tables. Key Takeaways Montana’s Medicaid eligibility hinges on specific income and asset criteria for seniors. Effective strategies exist to align with Medicaid’s asse ..read more

Advance healthcare directives give you control over your medical care if you can’t speak for yourself. In Montana, these are your voice during critical times. This guide walks Montana families through the essentials of understanding, creating, and registering these vital legal tools. Scroll down to find a helpful table of Montana resources. Key Takeaways Advance healthcare directives in Montana lay a legal foundation for honoring your healthcare preferences. Living Wills and Durable Powers of Attorney for Healthcare are the main types of directives. Creating and registering your directive in ..read more

Navigating Montana estate and trust administration can be a daunting task for families. This guide aims to demystify the process, providing essential insights into the duties involved, critical timelines to observe, and common pitfalls to avoid. Understanding these elements is crucial for ensuring a smooth and efficient administration process, safeguarding the interests of both the estate and its beneficiaries.   Key Takeaways Estate and trust administration in Montana involves a series of critical steps to ensure the deceased’s wishes are honored and assets are distributed correctly. Tr ..read more