Episodes
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In response to listener requests, Jeff explains financial planning options for individuals with special needs. In addition to common estate planning tools, you’ll learn about third-party and first-party special needs trusts, pooled trusts, and ABLE accounts. These strategies can help safeguard governmental benefits and create long-term financial stability for your disabled loved one.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(02:35) A common estate plan can include a financial power of attorney (PoA), a medical PoA, a living will, and a last will and testament.
(03:42) A trust is a legal contract between three parties, the grantor (the person who creates it), the trustee (the person who controls it), and the beneficiary (the person who receives it).
(04:14) It’s smart to set up a financial PoA and a medical PoA when a child, who has capacity to make decisions for himself or herself, turns 18. A child who does not have capacity to make decisions will likely require a guardianship hearing.
(08:08) To provide for a family member with a disability who is receiving public benefits, you can create a third-party special needs trust. The money is not left outright to the person with the disability because that can put their public benefits at risk.
(14:55) Most public benefit programs have a $2000 limit. The person with the disability is allowed to have no more than $2000 in their name. When that amount is exceeded, the person can create a first-party special needs trust, also known as a payback trust.
(18:31) A pooled trust is a type of special needs trust run by a charitable organization. It combines the funds of multiple beneficiaries into a single trust.
(20:22) An ABLE account is less expensive to set up but still provides access to money. There are limits and restrictions on this type of account, however.
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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When Pam Witwer started her business, Lancaster PA Notary, she sought an attorney to act as a strategic partner. After some stealth vetting of Bellomo & Associates, she knew she had found a team with a stellar reputation that shared her values and commitment to customer service.
Pam travels to seniors in the community to provide notary services at their locations. Her work is not limited to seniors and estate planning; she is trained in mortgage loan closings, international document authentication, and other areas.
The collaboration between Pam Witwer and Bellomo & Associates is so highly valued that the firm encouraged her to offer a second type of service—providing power of attorney, health care advocacy, trustee, and/or executor services. All of these relationships are built on trust, and that’s the backbone of Pam’s work.
To learn more, visit https://lancasterpanotary.com/, email [email protected], or call (717) 413-7213.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(07:56) A notary is a trained and certified public official who witnesses the signing of important documents and verifies the identity of the signer.
(09:28) Pam is a senior-focused traveling notary. She goes wherever her clients need her—their home or residence, a hospital, a rehab facility, hospice, memory care, etc. This mobile service speaks to Pam’s belief that seniors are an underserved segment of our population.
(11:15) It can be challenging for Bellomo & Associates, as an estate planning and elder law firm, to send a notary out to work with seniors, so this trusted collaboration with Pam is a great benefit to the team.
(12:01) It’s not unusual for a person to be without family or a trusted friend who can serve as power of attorney, health care advocate, trustee, or executor. In other cases, a backup is needed. Recognizing this underserved specialty and knowing Pam as a trustworthy and reliable collaborator, the Bellomo team encouraged her to expand her service offerings. This prompted Pam to launch Lancaster PA Executor Services.
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Missing episodes?
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Christine Oyler, Services Planning Coordinator at Bellomo & Associates, is the firm’s Medicaid team member. Since 2016, Christine has used her nursing experience and Medicaid knowledge to help clients better understand the Medicaid system and make the best choices for themselves and their families. As part of this work, she sits down with Jeff to discuss some of the lesser-known factors that can affect your asset protection strategy and Medicaid eligibility.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(03:15) A “529 account” helps people save for educational expenses. However, a 529 account could affect your eligibility for Medicaid.
(06:22) Funds in a “uniform transfer to minors account” are exempt from Medicaid eligibility even within the five-year lookback period.
(07:23) When filing a Medicaid application, estranged spouses must prove that they are living separate lives with separate finances. A hearing may be necessary.
(10:48) Divorcing and giving the “community” spouse 100% of assets to gain Medicaid eligibility is a red flag for possible fraud. Additionally, this scenario limits protection of the community spouse’s assets.
(14:20) When people get married and enter into a prenup to keep finances separate, the state can still make a claim on the resources of the community spouse. The same applies to postnuptial agreements.
(16:47) Some blended families have wills designed to keep inheritable resources separate for the “original” children. This does not protect the assets of the community spouse.
(19:05) Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) often have a “benevolent fund” available to pay for care if a person—who is not yet in skilled care—runs out of money. There are many factors to consider under this scenario.
(24:26) Having your assets in a trust would not necessarily disqualify you from entering a CCRC. But, at the least, you likely would need to have sufficient funds in your name alone to buy in. Estate planning options are available to manage this scenario.
(27:57) Typically, a benevolent fund contract will restrict the amount and type of gifting that is allowed while the contract is in force.
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Welcome to the second installment of our two-part series on asset protection trusts. In our previous episode, we explored advanced concepts related to the types of trusts established during a person's lifetime. Now we will focus on the options available for setting up trusts after death. There are many important factors to consider, and we want you to be well-informed so that you can make the best decisions for your family.
If you're a regular listener, you likely have the background needed to follow this in-depth discussion. But, if you're new to our podcast, we recommend starting with earlier episodes that introduce the fundamentals of trusts and other topics. If you're in Pennsylvania, you can attend our free educational workshops, either online or in our office. Give us a call or visit our website to learn more.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(02:33) A person established an asset protection trust while they were alive. What happens when that person (i.e., the grantor) dies? What should the successor trustee and beneficiaries expect regarding taxes, expenses, notice to creditors, etc.?
(05:11) How does trust administration differ from the probate process?
(09:41) What are some considerations when a trust is set up after death? How are the assets protected?
(15:19) Am I creating a problem for my children by setting up separate share trusts (i.e., where assets are never transferred into the names of the beneficiaries)? What is the role of a co-trustee?
(22:09) What is a spousal-only retirement trust? Does this protect retirement assets in full?
(24:38) Why name the spouse outright as the contingent beneficiary? How does this provide flexibility in planning?
(26:54) What techniques are available to protect assets through a special needs trust?
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
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We're thrilled by the level of engagement we see in our clients and podcast listeners. Your questions are always welcome because understanding the concepts in estate planning and elder law helps you make the best decisions for you and your family. Lately, we've received a lot of inquiries about trusts so we will dedicate two episodes to a deep dive into asset protection trusts.
If you're a regular listener, you have the foundational knowledge to follow along with this in-depth discussion. However, if you're new to our podcast, we recommend starting with our earlier episodes that cover trusts and other topics at an introductory level.
And, if you're in Pennsylvania, we'd love for you to join us at one of our free educational workshops. Check out our website or give us a call to learn more.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(03:20) What type of trust does Bellomo & Associates use for asset protection and tax purposes? Are revocable trusts used for asset protection?
(09:40) Are pure grantor irrevocable trusts widely used? Should I use Google to learn more about them?
(10:19) How do trusts work with continuing care retirement communities (CCRC)? What if I don’t plan on using a CCRC, but then I change my mind?
(13:19) How do trusts handle different types of real estate—a primary residence, vacation homes, and rental properties, etc.? What's the difference between ownership and control of properties? How are expenses paid for?
(18:00) When is it too late to set up a trust? What is the difference between pre-planning and crisis planning? What activates the five-year lookback period?
(23:37) Is an asset protection trust, as used by Bellomo & Associates, the same thing as a domestic asset protection trust?
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Carolyn (Carrie) Pugh is an attorney with Bellomo & Associates. In addition to elder law and estate planning, she is experienced in family law, custody conciliation, Social Security disability, and other areas that make her the perfect person to sit down with Jeff and answer your questions about the legal guardianship process.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(02:40) In Pennsylvania, pursuing guardianship requires a court proceeding where a judge must determine whether a person is incapacitated and whether to name someone to be that person’s guardian.
(03:17) Often, a guardianship proceeding occurs when people have an adult child with special needs—they've never had and never will have the capacity to decide if they need a power of attorney.
(04:32) A guardianship proceeding can also occur if someone has lost the capacity to name a power of attorney because of dementia, a traumatic brain injury, etc.
(05:45) Competency is a medical term; capacity is a legal term. A doctor's testimony is necessary for a judge to determine capacity.
(06:30) For competency, a doctor must complete a lengthy form outlining a person’s abilities or appear before the court as a witness.
(08:52) Each county in PA has different local rules. Use an attorney familiar with your county’s requirements.
(12:17) A guardianship hearing is a last resort. Preferably, the person in question has a power of attorney that is current and drawn up by a qualified attorney.
(16:36) Guardians are subject to more oversight than a person with power of attorney. A guardian is responsible for filing an annual accounting of finances. Some expenses must be approved by the court.
(21:01) The alleged incapacitated individual and immediate family members must be served notice at least 10 days before the hearing.
(22:37) A third-party can be assigned to serve as guardian if there are no family members or no appropriate family members available.
(25:08) Guardianship hearings are not considered an emergency unless a decision must be made immediately, such as consent for a medical procedure.
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Fran Gibbons is the senior director of development for the Greater Pennsylvania Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. The organization serves western, central, and northeastern Pennsylvania, helping people with Alzheimer's disease and all other dementias. Fran’s fundraising efforts provide support groups and educational resources while advancing crucial research and public policy initiatives.
The Walk to End Alzheimer's® is the world's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care. Visit the chapter’s website to sign up as an individual walker or part of a team. You will also find other virtual and in-person events, helpful caregiver resources, and different ways to donate at https://www.alz.org/pa
Helpline: (800) 272-3900
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(02:32) Fran works with partners, sponsors, and teams doing peer-to-peer fundraising for the Walk to End Alzheimer's events and related programs. She also works with individual constituents and groups to educate and raise awareness of all dementias.
(04:11) Fran covers about 42 counties in Pennsylvania, from Lancaster to Johnstown and all the way to the New York and Maryland borders.
(05:15) About 76% of the funds raised stay within the community to help with support groups, train individuals to educate, and conduct local research. The organization and its partners also provide resources and services for those living with any of the dementias.
(11:24) If a family member is starting to show signs of dementia or receives a diagnosis, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website. Better yet, call the helpline at (800) 272-3900. Care consultations are available in over 200 languages. The master consultants can provide a variety of services and also put callers in touch with attorneys and other local professionals and resources.
(14:54) Members of the PA chapter team are happy to meet with folks out in the community. The team supports people and caregivers dealing with all types of dementia.
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Joshua Hummer found that he had a passion for helping people with the intricacies of elder law and estate planning. However, he soon noticed a recurring issue among his clients. While his work fulfilled their needs for wills and trusts, it did not address their deeper concerns about family relationships and values. Recognizing this, Josh developed ways to use estate planning to help his clients strengthen their relationships and add extra meaning to their legacies.
Josh’s firm, Relational Estate Planning and Elder Law, is an innovative legal practice with two locations in Northern Virginia. He has co-authored a book and gives popular presentations on relational estate planning and other topics. You can learn more online or call Josh at the office numbers below:
Relational Estate & Elder Law
https://relational.law/
Winchester, VA: (540) 931-7078
Ashburn, VA: (571) 498-9009
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Podcast introduction.
(02:40) While working with clients, Josh realized the need for what he now calls "relational estate planning.”
(06:13) Discussions of aging, death, and inheritance are about more than just property and taxes—they’re about family and friends and relationships. Estate planning and elder law provides a unique platform to consider and discuss those bigger relationship issues.
(11:28) When estate planning, people learn that some basic actions completed ahead of time (e.g., leaving notes or videos) can have a tremendous impact on the survivors’ well-being and the way they respond to grief.
(15:04) A financial and/or medical crisis can be particularly challenging and emotional when there is a lack of planning for Medicaid or long-term care. Without pre-planning, people will be forced to make difficult decisions on the fly. That’s a lot to ask of loved ones. The emotional toll and stress between parents and children or among siblings can be devastating.
(25:57) The cornerstone tool for relational planning is an “ethical will.” The idea is to be intentional about leaving your values and beliefs behind. It’s not just about money and property; it’s about leaving a meaningful legacy.
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Jay Metzbower, Jr., is an attorney at Bellomo & Associates. After 10+ years in civil service, Jay decided to change careers and poured his dedication to community service into his education and the practice of elder law and estate planning. He can often be found leading one of Bellomo’s many workshops or discussing with his colleagues the latest laws, regulations, and best practices in the field.
Jay has two young sons, a penchant for motorcycles, and loyalty to the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens. His mission is to provide his clients the same experience he would want for his family.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(01:42) Bellomo’s next financial and healthcare professional boot camp will be in September in York, PA. CEUs are available for CFPs, CPAs, RNs, and many others.
(02:39) Jay is originally from the suburbs of Baltimore. He was a Hartford County Sheriff for 12 years. A tragic incident involving two colleagues convinced him to change careers and pursue a law degree.
(05:42) While in law school, Jay was introduced to Jeff and met the folks at Bellomo. This prompted him to focus on elder law and estate planning through the remainder of school and into practice.
(08:17) Jay has always had a passion for helping people, especially those who are underserved or don't get as much help as they should.
(09:55) Jay conducts many of Bellomo’s workshops and has a knack for explaining complicated concepts in ways that are easy to understand.
(13:13) Jay is a huge motorcycle guy and developed his love for bikes at a young age. To date, he has traveled to 20+ states via motorcycle.
(15:53) Asset protection can be especially messy for blended families and misinformation in this space can be very costly. Unfortunately, not all law school professors keep up with best practices in elder law and estate planning.
(25:18) Jeff and Jay explain the anticipated changes to, and impact of, the federal estate tax in 2026.
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Jeff Bellomo has a knack for finding talent outside normal avenues. And so it was when Amber Rivera waited on Jeff’s table during lunch over ten years ago. Since then, Amber has been a key player at Bellomo & Associates. As client relationship manager, she exemplifies the very best of customer service ideals. She guides her clients and supports her teammates with competence, empathy, and professionalism. As a result, her relationships reflect her compassionate nature and the strong bonds she forms with others.
What You Need to Know
(00:00) Podcast introduction.
(06:17) Amber believes that providing great customer service is imperative—and it has become a defining quality of the culture at Bellomo & Associates. As a result, many clients become like family, especially members of the Red Wagon Club.
(11:28) Pro tip: Science confirms that when you smile, you sound happier.
(11:56) After 17 years together, Amber and her man are now husband and wife. Jeff was honored to be asked to walk Amber down the aisle.
(16:10) It's important to Jeff that people feel he is approachable on any issue. This type of supportive, service-oriented leadership inspires Amber and others to go the extra mile.
(22:13) If you’re in the area and looking for an elder care and estate planning law firm, Amber encourages you to check out Bellomo & Associates. Clients benefit from and appreciate the creative ideas, customer care, and work ethic exhibited by the team.
(24:01) Amber has started assisting with the firm’s life care planning function. She enjoys helping Bellomo’s client care advocate, Meg Motter, coordinate services and assistance. Most of all, Amber is dedicated to helping family caregivers who often struggle with overwhelming demands.
About Bellomo & Associates
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Today, many seniors live longer—often farther away from family—and want to avoid continuing care retirement communities (CCRC). They’d rather age at home in familiar surroundings. But, aging at home usually requires some degree of assistance, which can be difficult to find.
Jeff’s guest, Melissa Ressler, is the executive director of Lancaster Downtowners, a special and creative membership-based group that enables seniors to age at home.
Learn more at www.lancasterdowntowners.org or follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/lancasterdowntowners/. You can reach Melissa directly at (717) 584-1224.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Podcast introduction.
(02:04) Dependent largely on volunteers, Lancaster Downtowners is a village model nonprofit—one of over 300 across the country—that makes it possible for people to age at home in their community.
(02:58) Many members live in an apartment or condo, but others live a little farther out and some even have a bit of land.
(03:43) Instead of providing the range of services you’d get in CCRC, a village provides social connections and support with everyday tasks.
(03:56) Lancaster Downtowners offers three types of help. Social connections: events, support groups, walking groups, etc. “Just One Call” program: transportation, technology assistance, etc. Home and life maintenance: yardwork, snow shoveling, medical notetaking, etc.
(07:18) There are about eight villages in Pennsylvania. The newest one serves York County.
(07:51) Membership fees are tiered based on income. Dues range from $0 to $15 per month.
(08:17) Call or fill out an application on the website to see if membership makes sense for you. For some needs, the team will connect you with other service providers (e.g., Meals on Wheels) to help you thrive at home.
(10:58) The service provider directory includes only those recommended by other members.
(12:04) Some members have given up their vehicles. Weekly grocery shopping trips, medical appointments, and all kinds of errands are manageable with volunteer drivers.
(18:42) The Lancaster Downtowners serves all of Lancaster County with a concentration in metro Lancaster.
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Jeff answers some questions that have been coming up in our conference rooms, workshops, and elsewhere. Generally, if a couple of people ask the same question, then we know that other people are thinking it, too. And, since we’re dedicated to education here at Bellomo & Associates, we like to jump in right away and clear up any confusion that might be out there. We want everyone to understand the tactics we recommend—and why we recommend them—for estate planning, elder law, and asset protection.
What You Need to Know
(00:00) Podcast introduction.
(02:37) Bellomo & Associates says the firm offers free workshops, but I'm skeptical because “nothing is free.” So, what’s the catch?
(04:04) I don't have children. How can I find someone to act as my financial power of attorney and/or medical power of attorney? Executor? Backup trustee? To whom should I leave my assets? What about tax consequences?
(11:00) Should I even worry about estate planning if I don’t have children?
(12:08) Estate planning workshops conducted by non-lawyers (i.e., financial advisors, insurance representatives, etc.) seem to be growing in popularity. Should I consider attending these workshops?
(18:06) Bellomo & Associates recommends that I use estate planning and elder law attorneys to protect my assets. But other people have told me to avoid lawyers, probate, and the related costs. I don’t know what to believe. What is probate anyway? Please help me understand.
(28:02) Do I really need to use an attorney who is certified?
About Bellomo & Associates
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.Bellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Carolyn (Carrie) Pugh brings a breadth of knowledge and a team-oriented attitude to Bellomo & Associates. In addition to her work in elder law and estate planning, she has extensive experience in family law, youth advocacy, and Social Security disability, among other disciplines. She loves people and helping others, but animals figure prominently in her life as well. Carrie studied animal science at Penn State before receiving her degree from Dickinson Law. She is active in her local community and, as you will hear, greatly values the community she has found at Bellomo & Associates.
What You Need to Know
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(04:15) Carrie’s first job as an attorney was a clerkship with the Honorable Joseph C. Adams, who encouraged her to take up family law after clerking. Eventually she began representing foster children and youth and served as a mediator and conciliator in custody cases.
(06:33) When Carrie connected with Bellomo & Associates, she realized that elder law and estate planning and her work with children and youth offered similar rewards—helping and educating others.
(08:19) Carrie loves participating in Bellomo’s workshops because afterward the attendees are much more knowledgeable and understand the process.
(09:37) Carrie is a long-time horse lover who competed when she was younger, but now is content trail riding with her dog by her side.
(14:54) Carrie’s family has a place at Moosehead Lake in Maine. It's near the end of the Appalachian Trail and has been the family’s vacation home since 1965.
(19:20) Carrie loves Bellomo & Associate’s atmosphere of caring, teamwork, and supportiveness—everyone is always looking out for each other as well as the clients.
(24:53) Jeff has received tremendous feedback about Carrie from clients. In addition to the workshops, informal events like the annual picnic offer team members and clients key opportunities to strengthen their relationships.
(27:38) Whether it’s adding new team members or new clients, the best outcomes happen when everyone feels comfortable and is free to be themselves.
About Bellomo & Associates
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Jeff welcomes retired attorney and businessperson Susan Hunter. Before developing a state-of-the-art indoor dog park and boarding-grooming-training facility in Nevada, Susan ran a successful elder law firm in Indiana. Back then, Susan and Jeff took time from their practices to co-teach a systematized approach of practice to elder law, estate planning, and asset protection attorneys. Through their work as Lawyers with Purpose® members, Susan and Jeff significantly contributed to what is now a nationwide network of highly skilled and effective estate and elder law attorneys.
BARK! Canine Club & Resort: Call (702) 306-6146 or visit https://barkcanineclub.com/
Indiana Estate & Elder Law: https://www.indianaestateelderlaw.com/
Lawyers with Purpose®: https://www.lawyerswithpurpose.com/What You Need to Know
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(03:05) Susan’s former partners and successors, Justin Schuhmacher and Jenny Rozelle, have renamed the firm to Indiana Estate and Elder Law.
(04:14) Susan and her husband started BARK! Canine Club & Resort. The 14-acre-complex includes a state-of-the-art facility for boarding, grooming, and training and a 5,000-square-foot indoor dog park designed for comfort and safety out of the desert heat.
(09:26) The Mesquite BARK Foundation is a 501C3 that benefits dogs all over Southern Nevada and Southern Utah.
(11:07) Susan developed an interest in elder law when she saw that her grandmother needed assistance with elder law issues but didn't trust attorneys.
(12:26) Susan’s professional turning point came when she connected with Lawyers with Purpose (LWP).
(18:07) The best way to learn something is to teach it.
(19:47) Susan helped Jeff see how a maintenance program would benefit his clients. This led to The Red Wagon Club.
(23:56) As co-trainers for LWP, Jeff and Susan helped grow a network of lawyers who can say, “yes, I will find you someone who does it the way we do it.”
(27:16) The business practices taught by LWP are transferable, universal practices.
About Bellomo & Associates
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Jeff’s guest is Julie Cassaday, a certified life coach and Level II Reiki Healer, whose unique approach to personal development and empowerment has transformed lives. Julie helps individuals reveal the best of themselves by untangling the obstacles to their goals. In addition to private coaching and Reiki, her work extends to communication and organizational training in workshops, webinars, and retreats. Her dynamic presence makes her a favorite keynote speaker with groups of all kinds and sizes. With a distinctive set of skills and a gift for connecting with others, Julie also is a passionate advocate for caregivers, an underserved group that both provides and deserves special care.
Connect with Julie Cassaday of Tanglewood Life Coaching on Facebook and LinkedIn. Or, reach out by phone, email, or her website.
Call: (443) 250-6360
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: https://www.tanglewoodlifecoaching.com/
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(02:44) Julie gives the background on Tanglewood and how it got its name. She believes her work is to help people clear away the brush to reveal the best version of themselves.
(04:54) She studied mass communications and organizational and broadcast communications in college. Here studies revealed a love of connecting with people.
(06:01) Julie jumped at the chance to give up a 30-year career in sales so that she could pursue work as a life coach.
(07:11) Having two parents with dementia led Julie to the Alzheimer’s Association and, eventually, a Reiki certification.
(10:34) As a communications trainer, Julie speaks at employee development classes, conferences, etc. She offers a selection of popular sessions or custom-designed programs.
(13:03) Life coaching is meeting someone where they are today, assessing their goals, and reminding them of who they are at their core.
(16:07) Having served as a caregiver for her parents while parenting her own children, Julie understands the demands. This drives her to advocate for caregivers of all types.
(22:28) Julie is seeing an increase in dementia in people under 65, which is especially devastating emotionally and financially.
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Finding the right senior living community for yourself or a family member can be overwhelming, emotional, and time-consuming. Assisted Living Locators is a nationwide network that helps seniors find the community that best meets their needs. Rick Campomizzi, owner of the local Harrisburg-based office, provides free, personalized service and expert guidance through what can be a maze of confusing options.
To learn more, call Rick at (717) 802-1074, email [email protected], or visit https://assistedlivinglocators.com/harrisburg.
What You Need to Know
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(03:52) Rick is familiar with a range of care communities, including independent living, personal care, memory care, assisted living, and skilled nursing communities.
(05:26) Rick’s service is free. His PA coverage spans five counties and 155-160 senior living communities.
(06:23) Rick starts with an assessment of the senior’s needs and desired geographic area. He provides an overview and pricing for a few select communities and then sets up tours as desired. He goes along on the tours and advocates for the family.
(09:42) Rick serves multiple counties in south central PA and any county that is not handled by another franchise. When another area is covered, Rick will work with his counterpart to help the senior find the right fit.
(12:24) Some seniors don’t have family or don’t have family in the area. Those who help seniors navigate the complexities of elder care resources provide an invaluable service.
(14:06) Rick keeps current on the different communities, the staff, and the leadership. He watches for changes that could affect performance and is careful about the recommendations he makes.
(18:50) Different communities offer different service levels. Understanding these details is key to good decision-making.
(20:05) Don't underestimate the power of socialization and activities. Today’s senior living communities are not what they used to be.
About Bellomo & Associates
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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It’s that time of year when Jeff provides the newest and most applicable IRS and Medicaid numbers for tax and estate planning purposes. Many of these numbers are discussed in our free, educational workshops. Jeff also likes to review them here along with related questions we get from our clients.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(05:50) The federal estate tax limit is now $13.61 million per person or $27.22 MM for a married couple.
(09:14) The annual exclusion gift is set at $18,000 per person per recipient per year. Ask your tax preparer if you should file a gift tax return.
(10:40) For Medicaid purposes in Pennsylvania in 2024, the income limit is $2,829 per month. If your income is greater than the limit, you're allowed $2,400 in resources. If less than the limit, you can have $8,000 in resources.
(11:20) To be eligible for waiver services in the home, your income must be less than $2,829 + $500 per month. Talk to your financial professional.
(12:17) For a community spouse’s protected share amounts, the maximum is 50% of the assets, but no more than $154,140 and no less than $30,828.
(12:59) To calculate penalty for gifting during look back period and days until Medicaid eligibility for nursing home or waiver, use the amount gifted divided by $379.65 per day or $11,547 per month.
(14:04) The Minimum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance (MMMNA) refers to income limits for the community spouse. The maximum is $3,853.50 and the minimum is $2,465.
(14:20) The excess home minimum is $713,000 and the maximum is $1,071,000. The home maintenance deduction is $965.10 per month. The heating standard is $750 per month and the non-heating standard is $401. The personal needs allowance is $45 per month.
(15:30) A new IRS ruling headline suggests that children are losing step up in basis with irrevocable trusts. This does not apply to the type of trusts used at Bellomo.
(19:13) The grantor trust rules in Pennsylvania now mimic the federal grantor trust rules. Nothing will change for most Bellomo clients.
(21:30) The IRS announced a potential gift tax for trust beneficiaries. This should not affect you if Bellomo created your trust.
ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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This is the 2nd part of our examination of celebrity estate plans. Using the real-life stories of some of entertainment’s most famous figures, Jeff teaches us valuable lessons that can be applied to our own situations.
What You Need to Know
(00:00) Episode introduction.
(02:56) Singer Whitney Houston created a will in 1993. She died 19 years later with the same will in place. The lesson: Keep your will up to date. Be careful about passing large sums of unprotected money to young people.
(07:39) Attorney Robert Kardashian—part of OJ Simpson’s defense team and the father of Kourtney, Kim, Khloe, and Rob—had a handwritten will. Upon his death, the language in the will was unclear and subsequently disputed. The lesson: Detailed language matters.
(11:44) Actor Heath Ledger died in 2008 with an outdated will that left everything to his parents and sister. So, at the time of his death, Ledger’s young daughter was not provided for. His family gifted the inheritance to his daughter. The lesson: Don’t rely on others to do the right thing.
(16:20) Musician Prince died in 2016 with $200 million in assets—and no will or trust. Forty-five people claimed to be heirs. By 2018, $6 million had been spent on unnecessary legal fees. The lesson: Formalize your plan. Be detailed and intentional.
(19:20) Actress Brittany Murphy named her mother as heir in a handwritten will. When Ms. Murphy got married, she updated her estate plan and used very specific language, again leaving her entire estate to her mother. The lesson: Keep your plan updated and use detailed language.
(22:51) Singer Aretha Franklin died without a will or trust. Two contradictory handwritten wills were found in her house. The lesson: Use a professional to create an estate plan. Have only one document stored in a safe, known place.
(26:23) DJ Casey Kasem suffered from dementia in his later years. In 2007 and 2011, he created conflicting documents that put his daughter and his wife at odds over his fortune. The courts were forced to intervene. The lesson: Make your intentions clear.
About Bellomo & Associates
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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It might not seem like it, but celebrities are people, too. Their estate plans prove that, just like us, some are forward-thinking and prepared while others fail to protect their assets. Jeff uses the stories of some of the wealthiest and most fascinating figures in entertainment and sports to teach us valuable lessons in estate planning because our legacies matter, too!
What You Need to Know
(00) Episode introduction.
(07:04) Elvis Presley established a trust for his daughter, Lisa Marie. The trust dissolved when she turned 25 and that made the assets vulnerable. The lesson: Use non-dissolving trusts and carefully consider the age and maturity of the beneficiary.
(13:10) Actor Philip Seymour Hoffman did not provide for after-born children. The lesson: Add a clause, “and any after-born children” and don’t rely on governmental statutes that might not be in place when needed.
(15:50) Jim Morrison of The Doors died with an overly simplistic will. Plans should be able to accommodate the many “what if” scenarios that could be playing out at the time of death. The lesson: Provide for various contingencies and backup the backup.
(19:32) Track star Florence Griffith Joyner kept the location of her will a secret. As a result, it took four years to close her estate and members of her family disagreed on what they thought were her wishes. The lesson: Make your document(s) location known and keep the papers in a professional’s safe, secure facility.
22:50) Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, created a trust, but he never funded it. Jackson’s family spent a lot of time in probate court. With trusts, you avoid probate and keep your business private. The lesson: Fund your trust.
(24:30) Actor Marlon Brando supposedly made oral promises to his long-time housekeeper. His estate plan excluded those promises, and his housekeeper brought a lawsuit. In the end, she won just a fraction of what she allegedly had been promised. The lesson: Document the details.
(26:57) James Gandolfini of The Sopranos had an estate worth $70 million when he died suddenly. He hadn’t finalized his plan before leaving on vacation and 55% of the wealth was lost to taxes. The lesson: Work with an attorney or financial pro to make sure your plan is complete.
About Bellomo & Associates
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates
WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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Jeff “inherited” probate paralegal Cathy Montague two years ago when Bellomo acquired a small elder law firm from a retiring attorney. It didn’t take long for Jeff and the team to recognize Cathy’s experience and value. And it didn’t take long for Cathy to embrace her new environment and colleagues.
Cathy sits down with Jeff to reflect on her long and impressive career. They discuss how sole ownership and probate can be a good financial planning strategy. Then Cathy shares what she has learned about dealing with families experiencing heightened stress and emotion in the wake of loss. In a more lighthearted story, she explains why a previous client paid in all $1 dollar bills!
What You Need to Know
(00:00) Episode Introduction
(03:25) Cathy began her career 37 years ago. She started doing a bit of everything—wills, powers of attorney, deeds, and the like—but eventually became a specialist in probate administration.
(06:35) Cathy finds great fulfillment in helping others. In addition to providing professional guidance and answering questions, she is determined to make this difficult time as easy as possible for folks.
(07:27) The probate process can take up to a year because the estate must be advertised with two different agencies per Pennsylvania law. Creditors have one year to submit a bill from the advertisement date.
(09:25) Sometimes people underestimate the stress that can come with losing a loved one and finalizing the estate. Other times, people are hesitant to complete the probate process because it can feel like letting go of their loved one.
(11:33) Cathy describes herself as someone who helps family members after their loved one has passed. She walks them through the process to ensure that they fulfill the activities and deadlines stipulated by Pennsylvania law.
(12:15) Probate administration is needed when the deceased owns assets in his/her name alone. It might seem more convenient to avoid probate by jointly owning all assets, but avoiding probate is not always a wise strategic move.
About Bellomo & Associates
Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master’s degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language.
Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn’t happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.
LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONEDBellomo & Associates workshops:https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/
Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of MedicaidFor more information, call us at (717) 845-5390.
Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media
Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/
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WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO
Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/
Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/
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