Understanding the Need for a Power of Attorney

When a family member passes away without a will or trust (called dying intestate ), their estate is distributed according to the laws of the state they lived in. Here's a general step-by-step guide on what to do: 1. Get a Legal Pronouncement of Death: If it hasn’t been done already (e.g., at a hospital), a medical professional must pronounce the death legally. You’ll need this to obtain a death certificate. 2. Obtain Death Certificates: You'll need multiple certified copies (10–15 is common) for banks, insurance, property titles, etc. These are issued by your local vital records office or funeral home. 3. Determine the Estate's Executor or Administrator: If there’s no will, the probate court will appoint an administrator (usually the next of kin). You can petition the court to become the administrator if you're a close family member. 4. File for Probate - Probate is the legal process of settling the estate: Go to the probate court in the county where the deceased lived. File a petition for probate without a will . The court will appoint an estate administrator and officially open probate. 5. Notify Heirs and Creditors Send formal notice to all potential heirs and beneficiaries. 6. Identify and Inventory Assets - This includes: Bank accounts Real estate Vehicles Retirement accounts Personal belongings Some assets may pass outside probate if they have named beneficiaries (like life insurance or POD accounts). 7. Pay Debts and Taxes Use estate funds to pay valid debts and taxes. File the deceased’s final tax return . 8. Distribute the Remaining Assets: Once debts and taxes are settled: The court will distribute assets according to state intestacy laws , usually prioritizing: Spouse and children Parents and siblings More distant relatives if no close family 9. Close the Estate: After all duties are fulfilled, submit a final accounting to the court. If approved, the estate can be officially closed. Consider Talking to a Probate Attorney: Especially if: The estate is large or complex There’s family conflict You need help with legal paperwork Book your consultation with Ruth C. Rhodes of Rhodes Law, P.A. and let Ruth share her knowledge and experience in helping you with planning to meet your individual and family needs. With a commitment to excellence in Elder Law, she stands ready to assist clients at every stage of life, ensuring their rights and wishes are fully protected. So, call us at (321) 610-4542 and schedule your consultation today!

Medicare and Medicaid are both government-run health insurance programs in the U.S., but they serve different groups and are funded differently: Medicare - Who it's for: Primarily for people 65 and older, and some younger people with disabilities or end-stage renal disease. - Funded by : Federal government , through payroll taxes, premiums, and general revenue. - Coverage : Includes hospital care (Part A), medical services (Part B), and optional prescription drug coverage (Part D). Private Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) are also available. Medicaid Who it's for : People of any age with low income , including children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. Funded by : Jointly by federal and state governments. States run their own programs with federal guidelines. Coverage : Broader than Medicare in many cases, often including things like long-term care, dental, and vision services. In short: Medicare = Age-based or disability-based, federal program. Medicaid = Income-based, state and federal program. Medicaid is usually low-cost or free , but costs can vary depending on your state, income, and the type of services you use. Here's a general breakdown: For Most People No monthly premiums Very low or no copays No deductibles In Some States Higher-income enrollees (still within Medicaid limits) may have: Modest monthly premiums (typically under $50) Small copays (often $1–$4 per visit or prescriptions For Long-Term Care (like nursing homes) Medicaid may require you to spend down assets or contribute most of your monthly income toward your care, depending on your financial situation. Special Programs: Children (CHIP or Medicaid) : Often completely free. Pregnant women and people with disabilities : Usually receive coverage with little to no cost. Engaging in Medicaid planning well in advance can significantly enhance peace of mind for individuals and their families, ensuring they make informed decisions that align with their long-term goals. Legal and financial advice may be needed to effectively manage an individual’s estate. Creating trusts, gifting assets, or employing spend-down strategies are often utilized to align with Medicaid’s requirements. At Rhodes Law, P.A. , Ruth will advise you how to qualify, obtain and maintain Medicaid benefits. Call our office at (321) 610-4542 and schedule your consultation today!