Florida Estate Planning & Elder Law E Newsletter  
April  2016
Message from our Attorneys

None of that "woe-is-America" talk for Warren Buffet. In his recent report to shareholders, the Oracle of Omaha expresses steadfast confidence in the nation's future, writing: " For 240 years it's been a terrible mistake to bet against America, and now is no time to start. America's golden goose of commerce and innovation will continue to lay more and larger eggs. America's social security promises will be honored and perhaps made more generous. And yes, America's kids will live far better than their parents did."  
 
It is undeniable that we are living in tumultuous times. Even so, we're placing our bets with the Oracle of Omaha.  
 
All the best,  
 
Joseph S. Karp
Joseph S. Karp
Genny Bernstein
Ge nny Bernstein
Adele S. Harris
Adele S. Harris
Chad Steskal
Rachel G. Zetouni

In This Issue
Senior Survival Workshops
We have rescheduled our workshops. Our next workshops will be held in May in Boynton Beach, Palm Beach Gardens and Port St. Lucie. Check the revised schedule here . Please spread the word to your friends, neighbors and relatives!
What are your obligations when paying your caregiver?
As we reported previously, those who employ certain at-home caregivers must now pay both minimum wage and overtime. If you have caregiving help and are uncertain if the new regulations apply to you, here is clarification from the law firm of Ford Harrison, LLP.

Social Security "File & Suspend" ends soon
The file and suspend option for married couples ends April 29th. Should you take advantage of this strategy before it's too late? This NY Times article gives the pros and cons.

Congratulations - and caution - when remarrying
When older people remarry, adult children from prior marriages are often part of the family. Providing for your new spouse while still protecting your own children's inheritance requires clear-headed, thoughtful estate planning.  

Do you own property outside Florida?
If a Florida resident owns real property outside Florida, an "ancillary probate" will be necessary in the other state - unless the proper estate planning steps are taken in advance. Here's how you can spare your family the hassle and expense.

Off to the Peace Corps...
Alice Carter's ears perked up when she heard President Kennedy call on young people to join the Peace Corps. She heeded the call - it just took her a little longer than most! 

LTC insurance premiums up... and down
Many companies have dropped their long-term care insurance coverage; those that remain have imposed considerable hikes on policyholders. But this year, at least for some, premiums have actually decreased.

How to entertain the grandchildren
You want to spend quality time with the kids. But entertaining them can be challenging, and exhausting, too. Here are some simple ideas to keep them busy.

Blue Water Vets' SOS goes unanswered
Navy personnel who served off the coast of Vietnam have been fighting for Agent Orange benefits for years. Once again, the V.A. has turned them down.

How to provide even for a "disinherited" child
Virtually every client who disinherits an adult child does so reluctantly, often from a desire to protect the other children. In his response to one letter writer, Attorney Karp explains how you may be able to provide something for your "rogue" child while still protecting your other children.

Beware smart phone scams
They say that with every blessing comes a curse. That's certainly true for our smart phones, which are providing a new tool for crafty crooks. AARP tells you how to defend yourself. 

Elder Law Radio
Did you know that Attorney Joseph Karp is interviewed monthly on the Anita Finley's radio show? Find out how to listen here.

Florida Trusts, Estates, Elder Law

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Port St. Lucie, FL 34986
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( 561 ) 752-4550
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