On May 22, 2017, Governor Abbott signed a new law which allows a trust to be reformed if necessary or appropriate to achieve the tax objectives of the one who created the trust (the “trustor”) or to qualify a beneficiary for governmental benefits and is...
As an elder law attorney, it may be surprising to clients that many of our referrals come from estate planning attorneys since most have limited knowledge regarding public benefits. Many are shocked that there are over 40 Medicaid programs (each with their own rules) in...
The Texas Senate has passed a bill (which has been sent to the Texas House) to facilitate the design and development of a Medicaid block grant waiver so that there would be a continuation of joint funding by the federal and state governments while allowing...
Congressional Republicans and Democrats have come to a bipartisan agreement on a historic increase of $400 million in Alzheimer’s research at a time when the government is looking for ways to cut expenses. This shows that Congress feels that significant progress has been made and...
Although potential tax reform laws are far from settled, taxpayers could consider certain actions now to maximize tax savings including the following: Establish a business entity (if the business owner’s income tax rate is greater than the proposed rate) that the income or losses flow...
There are numerous ways real estate can be transferred to avoid probate, but which way is best will depend on the circumstances. The most common choices are either a deed of gift, transfer on death deed or a Ladybird deed (which is an enhanced life...
The Texas Legislature is presently considering a new law permitting a motor vehicle owner to simply designate who will be entitled to the car upon the owner’s death. If a car title is jointly owned, then the sale of the vehicle requires both owners. Also...
One of the bills introduced in the Texas Senate requires doctors keep a patient alive (even if the doctor does not think that it is the right decision) pursuant to the patient’s advance directive (i.e., living will) or the decision of the patient’s family to...
There are some key bills up for debate during this legislative session. An important one involves expanding the Silver Alert Program to include those younger than 65 that have been diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer's. Expanding the Silver Alert public notification system can lead to a...
A bill has been passed by the Texas House of Representatives giving disabled veterans the same rights as those over 65 to defer property taxes on their homestead. Under present law, if you are over 65 and you own and occupy a residence homestead, you...
