Do you think you might still have life insurance, but you can’t find the policy? Do you think a deceased relative had a policy that no one has ever claimed? If so, you might be able to find it on the State of Michigan’s unclaimed property website: https://unclaimedproperty.michigan.gov If you don’t know the name of […]
Most people are driven to plan their estate because they are worried about their major assets – their home, a business, a large life insurance policy. But it is often the personal items – such as jewelry, collectibles and mementos, that have the highest sentimental value. It is easy to divide money by the number […]
At the start of a new year, when tax documents are issued, many folks wonder how long they have to keep their old tax records. If you are eager to shred your old records, you should be aware of the IRS rules for what to keep and how long. https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/how-long-should-i-keep-records The IRS recommends that you […]
Accordingly to a recent article from Merrill Lynch, many people still believe that a trust is only for the very wealthy. On the contrary, a trust allows someone of even modest means to ensure that his money is distributed as he wishes after his death. Merrill Lynch points out the three benefits of a trust: […]
Michigan is providing free legal help to people age 55 and older who have experienced, or are at risk of, abuse, neglect or exploitation. These free legal services are available regardless of income, languages spoken or immigration status (with or without documentation). The Elder Justice Initiative helps clients get protective orders, recover funds and property taken […]
Methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth, was initially produced by gangs on the West Coast. But since that time, meth production has moved to small, residential home labs, especially in rural areas. Meth residue poses significant health risks for the buyers of those homes, especially for the younger members of the family, but there is no […]
In a recent newsletter, Relevar Home Care reported on the often-fatal combination of a dementia patient and access to firearms, and they offered some safety suggestions. According to a Pew Research Center survey, 45% of people aged 65 and older have guns in their household. Another 12% reside in the home of a gun owner. […]
If your home is owned by your Trust, or if you are the Trustee or Personal Representative for someone who owned a home, you need to make absolutely certain that your homeowner's insurance knows that! Earlier this year, the Michigan Court of Appeals was faced with a case where a homeowner transferred his house to […]
Recently, I was given an opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. for the week of October 8th. When I checked the schedule I was thrilled to learn that the United States Supreme Court WOULD be hearing oral arguments while I was there. I had last visited the Supreme Court in 1983, when I was a college […]
