Our Illinois elder law attorneys discuss some of the common goals that our clients accomplish through estate plan.  Our Illinois elder lawyers guide our clients through the process of:

• Using revocable living trusts to ensure your estate doesn't require costly probate court in order to distriubte your assets when you pass.
• Using trusts and wills to appoint executors and trustees to protect, manage and distribute your assets according to your wishes.
• Using healthcare and property powers of attorney to ensure guardian proceedings won't be necessary if you become mentally incompetent.
• Using a living will to make end of life decisions.                

We also discuss several more focused goals, such as:

• Avoiding estate taxes
• Planning for a loved one with special needs
• Protecting your assets from creditors; and 
• planning for long term care.

Our Illinois elder law attorneys know that no two clients have the exact same goals.  We work with each client to create the best plan to eliminate stress and worry in your golden years.

You can read the full article by our Illinois elder law attorneys about what having a great estate plan can accomplish for you and your family.  

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In this article, our Illinois elder law attorneys explain allowable transfers within the Medicaid period.  

In order to qualify to have Medicaid pay for your long-term care, you must have already “spent down” all of your own assets.  One Medicaid planning strategy is to transfer assets such as the family home to your children in order to qualify for Medicaid without depleting your children’s inheritance.  However, any transfers of assets for less than fair market value within 5 years prior to applying for Medicaid will result in a delay in your eligibility for Medicaid.  This is called the 5 year look back period.  There are some exceptions to this rule.  Certain types of transfers may be made within the Medicaid 5 year look back period without delaying your eligibility for Medicaid benefits.  Our Illinois elder law attorneys describe the exceptions to the Illinois Medicaid 5 year look back rule in this article.

Read the full article by our Illinois elder law attorneys about allowable transfers within the Medicaid 5 year look back period. 

In this article, our Illinois elder law attorneys discuss how to avoid probate when you pass by using revocable living trusts. 

In general, these trusts help families avoid the costs and stress of probate in Illinois. By using revocable living trusts, you and your loved ones can ensure that passing will not bring additional, unnecessary stress to loved ones.

Read the full article by our Illinois elder law lawyers about how to avoid probate. 

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