Planning for the future is never simple. When you are raising a child with special needs, it carries an extra layer of care, responsibility, and emotion. Many parents worry about what will happen if they are no longer there to advocate, manage finances, or make decisions, and begin searching for guidance and practical answers. These […]
A Guide to Understanding the Texas Durable Power of Attorney and North Carolina Durable Power of Attorney
This article explains, in plain terms, what a Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) is, when it begins, when it ends, and what it allows an agent to do. It also clarifies why a Durable Power of Attorney is not a substitute for a Will, and why planning early matters. The information is based on Texas […]
The Five Basic Estate Planning Documents Every Adult in Texas Needs
When some people hear the words “estate planning,” they picture a mansion or significant wealth. But estate planning is not just about making sure your property gets to the people you love after you die. It’s also about making sure people you trust have the legal authority to act for you if you become incapacitated. […]
An Online Letter of Intent
Every parent worries about whether their child’s well-being in the event of a tragedy. These concerns are compounded for parents of children with special needs, who may not have the capacity to communicate their needs with their caregivers. As a parent, you intimately understand your child’s daily routines, medical needs, educational requirements, favorite foods, and […]
Will Distributions from ABLE Account for Food or Shelter Reduce SSI Benefits?
What is an ABLE Account? An ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) account is a type of savings account for individuals with disabilities and their families. The account allows individuals with disabilities to save money for their disability-related expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and health care, without losing eligibility for government benefits such as […]
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas ABLE Accounts
Barrack Obama signed the Achieving a Better Life Experience “(ABLE”) Act into on December 19, 2014. It requires each state to pass its own ABLE Act. Governor Greg Abbott signed the Texas ABLE Act on June 19, 2015. The ABLE Act creates an option for eligible people with disabilities to save money in a tax-exempt […]
Estate Planning for Your Graduate
If you are the parent of a high school senior about to graduate, you’re probably feeling a whirlwind of emotion right now. I know I am. My youngest child is scheduled to graduate in May! While you’re proud of how much your child has accomplished and excited about the bright opportunities ahead for him or […]
Who Are Your Beneficiaries?
Who are your beneficiaries? When was the last time you updated your beneficiary designations? If you’re like most Americans, it’s probably been a really long time! I recently updated my own estate plan. As part of the process, I reviewed the beneficiary designations on file with my financial institution. I know I listed my husband’s […]
Three Estate Planning Documents Every College Student Needs
Without three important documents, you may not be able to help when your child needs you most. Attorney Rania Combs explains.
Estate Planning in Blended Families
According to a Pew Research Study, more than 4 in 10 Americans are part of a blended family. And while 7 in 10 are satisfied with their step-family relationships, the study revealed that people typically feel a stronger sense of obligation to their biological families. That’s what makes estate planning for blended families complicated. If you […]