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In January 2023, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced it would award nearly $25 million to help fund
housing for people with disabilities.
Roughly 100 public housing authorities across the country
will receive funding. The HUD estimates that this will result in providing
affordable housing to more than 2,000 additional qualifying families with
non-elderly disabled loved ones.
In the news release announcing the award, HUD Secretary
Marcia L. Fudge called the funding “an important step forward.” It will, she
said, “help more persons with disabilities serve as fully integrated members of
their communities and allow them to live independently and with dignity.”
Challenges Facing Disabled Adults Seeking Housing
As rental increases have endured nationwide, people with
disabilities who have limited income are especially vulnerable when it comes to
securing affordable housing. This is aggravated by the fact that federal
disability payouts have not kept pace with these rising rent prices, a
September 2022 NPR story reported.
In addition, individuals across the disability community
often face discrimination when seeking housing options.
“Too often, people with disabilities are denied reasonable
accommodation or forced to pay extra fees to rent housing,” Fudge wrote in a
separate opinion piece for CNN on the Fair Housing Act.
Housing Assistance
As mentioned, even with such federal disability benefits as
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance
(SSDI), covering the cost of housing can be a challenge.
The federal government offers support designed for people
with disabilities seeking affordable housing of their choice.
For example, non-elderly individuals with disabilities or
their families may qualify for the Mainstream Voucher Program, which provides
financial support in paying rent each month. This is the program that is
benefiting from the $25 million award.
Disabled individuals aged 18 to 61 are among those who may
benefit from this federally funded housing assistance program. Other criteria
must be met as well. Unfortunately, housing choice vouchers are not only in
high demand, but the application process also can take time. If you are the
parent of a child with special needs, investigate this option as early as
possible.
Another example is the federal government’s Section 811
Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities program. This program likewise
seeks to give people with disabilities the opportunity to live independently
within their community.
Households applying for this program must have at least one
adult family member with a disability and must have very limited income.
The HUD website houses a dedicated portal with detailed information on Section
811.
Your state may also offer other housing assistance programs
for people with disabilities. Be sure to check out Pennsylvania's organizations
that may benefit you.
How Do I Apply for Disability Housing Assistance?
Application processes differ by type of disability housing
assistance program. If you believe you may qualify for a voucher program,
contact your local public housing agency. The agency will gather information
from you regarding your assets, family income, and other details as part of the
application process.
If your family qualifies, the agency will put you on a waiting list before
providing you with a housing voucher. The wait for housing may vary depending
on where you live, but long waiting periods do tend to be the norm. Certain
applicants may get preference – such a family who has been involuntarily
displaced.
You can search by state for a public housing agency near you on the HUD website.
For a program like the Supportive Housing for Persons with
Disabilities program, HUD announces the availability of funding each year and
invites applications directly from nonprofit organizations at that time.
Consult With a Professional
As you seek the best solution for your loved one’s housing,
working with Sharek Law Office will allow you to navigate the criteria for
different federal and state housing assistance programs that can be complex
varied. Schedule your free 15-minute call to discuss your options with our team
today.
This article is a service of Sharek Law Office, LLC. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That’s why we offer a Life and Legacy Planning Session, during which you will get more financially organized than you’ve ever been before, and make all the best choices for the people you love. You can begin by calling our office today to schedule a Life and Legacy Planning Session and mention this article to find out how to get this $750 session at no charge. Please note this is educational content only and is not intended to act as legal advice.
When it comes to finding the right care for aging loved ones, senior placement services can make all the difference. In Northern Colorado, where the demand for senior care is on the rise, senior placement professionals offer invaluable assistance in navigating the complex world of senior housing options. Whether you're looking for independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing, understanding the senior placement process is key to making an informed decision.In this blog, we will discuss how senior placement services work, the benefits they offer, and how to find the best options in Northern Colorado. What Is Senior Placement?Senior placement services are designed to help families find appropriate housing and care options for their loved ones. These services are typically free for families because they are compensated by the senior care communities once a placement is made. Senior placement professionals specialize in understanding the needs of seniors and matching them with the right facilities, whether it's for independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing.The goal is to make the process of finding senior care as easy and stress-free as possible. This allows families to focus on the well-being of their loved ones rather than the overwhelming task of researching facilities and navigating the complexities of healthcare options. Why Should You Consider Senior Placement Services?Choosing the right care facility for an aging loved one can be an overwhelming process. With numerous options to consider, it's easy to become lost in the details. Senior placement services can alleviate this burden by providing the following benefits:1. Expert Knowledge of Available FacilitiesSenior placement professionals are experts in the senior care industry. They have in-depth knowledge of local communities, their services, and their reputation. In Northern Colorado, where there are many options, this expertise is invaluable when it comes to narrowing down the best choices based on your loved ones needs.2. Personalized RecommendationsEvery senior has unique needs. A placement professional will take the time to understand your loved ones specific health, social, and emotional needs, offering recommendations that are tailored to their requirements. This ensures that the facility you choose will provide the right level of care and a comfortable environment.3. Time-SavingThe search for senior housing can be time-consuming. Senior placement services streamline the process, saving you valuable time. Instead of spending hours researching and contacting facilities, a professional will do the legwork for you, presenting you with only the most suitable options.4. Emotional SupportMaking decisions about senior care can be an emotional experience. Senior placement services provide emotional support and guidance throughout the process. They help you navigate the difficult decisions and offer reassurance that you are making the best choice for your loved one.5. Cost-EfficientMany families are surprised to learn that senior placement services are typically free. Providers are compensated by the senior care communities once a placement is made. This means you get expert guidance at no cost to you. How to Find Senior Placement Services in Northern ColoradoNorthern Colorado is home to numerous senior care options, from Fort Collins and Loveland to Greeley and Longmont. Whether you're looking for independent living, assisted living, or more specialized care such as memory care, there are plenty of choices.When looking for senior placement services in the region, here are some key steps to consider:1. Research Local Senior Placement AgenciesLook for senior placement agencies in Northern Colorado that have good reviews and a proven track record. Many placement professionals specialize in the region and are familiar with the local senior care communities. Visit their websites or contact them directly to learn about the services they offer.You can find more information about local senior resources here: Senior Resources Directory - Northern Colorado2. Request a ConsultationMany senior placement agencies offer free consultations where they can assess your loved ones needs and discuss potential options. Use this time to ask questions about the services they offer and their experience in the area.3. Ask About the Placement ProcessIts important to understand how the senior placement service works. Ask about the steps involved, how they select care facilities, and the level of support you will receive throughout the process.4. Evaluate Potential Care CommunitiesOnce youve narrowed down potential facilities, take the time to visit them. Many placement services will arrange tours for you, so you can get a feel for the community, meet staff members, and ask any questions you have about the facilitys services and amenities.Explore senior placement options in Northern Colorado: Northern Colorado Senior Placement Directory Conclusion: Simplifying the Senior Care Search in Northern ColoradoThe process of finding the right senior care facility for your loved one can be overwhelming, but with the help of a senior placement professional, it doesn't have to be. Senior placement services in Northern Colorado offer expert guidance, personalized recommendations, and emotional support to help you make informed decisions with confidence. By partnering with a trusted senior placement service, youll have access to valuable resources and expert knowledge, making the journey to find the perfect care facility much smoother for you and your family.
Navigating senior care options can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding the right living situation for a loved one. In Minneapolis, Minnesota, senior placement services provide families with the guidance and expertise they need to make informed decisions. Whether you are looking for independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing facilities, understanding the role of senior placement services can make the process much smoother.In this blog, well explore what senior placement involves, why its valuable, and how families in Minneapolis can find trusted resources to support them through this important transition. What is Senior Placement?Senior placement refers to the process of helping older adults and their families find the most suitable senior living community based on the individuals needs, preferences, and budget. Placement specialists work closely with families to assess their situation and recommend options that best match their loved one's health, lifestyle, and care requirements.Senior placement services often assist with:Personalized needs assessmentsTouring communitiesComparing services and costsCoordinating transitions into new residencesThe goal is to relieve families of the burden of navigating the senior housing landscape alone and to ensure seniors find a living arrangement that promotes their quality of life. Why Use Senior Placement Services in Minneapolis?Minneapolis offers a wide range of senior living options, each with different levels of care, amenities, and pricing structures. Choosing the right fit can be challenging without expert guidance. Senior placement services offer several benefits, including:Local expertise: Specialists understand the Minneapolis senior housing market and can recommend communities based on firsthand knowledge.Time savings: Instead of researching dozens of options, families receive a curated list of communities tailored to their needs.Emotional support: Placement specialists offer compassion and understanding during what can be an emotional and stressful decision-making process.Financial guidance: They help families navigate budgeting and explore financial resources that may be available for senior living.By working with experienced placement specialists, families can move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind. Common Types of Senior Living Options in MinneapolisSenior placement professionals in Minneapolis help families choose from a range of senior living options, including:Independent Living: For active seniors who want a maintenance-free lifestyle with access to amenities and social activities.Assisted Living: For those who need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Memory Care: Specialized communities designed for seniors living with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia.Skilled Nursing Facilities: Providing around-the-clock medical care for seniors with complex health needs.Each type of community offers different services and supports, and placement specialists help families find the right match based on current and future care needs. How to Find Trusted Senior Placement Services in MinneapolisWhen searching for senior placement help in Minneapolis, its important to choose reputable professionals who are knowledgeable, compassionate, and committed to finding the best solution for your loved one.Tips for finding trusted placement services include:Check for experience and local knowledge: Make sure the placement specialist is familiar with the Minneapolis senior housing market.Ask about their process: A good specialist should offer a clear, supportive process that prioritizes your familys needs.Look for transparency: Reputable placement services should be upfront about any affiliations with communities and how they are compensated.Seek recommendations: Ask friends, healthcare providers, or local organizations for referrals.Families can also explore senior living resources in Minneapolis through Seniors Blue Book's comprehensive directory: Explore Minneapolis Senior ResourcesTo narrow your search specifically for senior placement services, visit: Senior Placement Services in MinneapolisThe Importance of Personalized Senior PlacementEvery senior has unique needs, preferences, and health considerations. Thats why a personalized approach to senior placement is so valuable. By understanding a seniors medical conditions, lifestyle goals, social preferences, and financial situation, placement specialists can recommend the best environment to promote long-term happiness and well-being.Whether a senior is looking for a vibrant community with lots of activities or a smaller setting with high levels of personal care, the right placement can make all the difference in their quality of life. Final ThoughtsChoosing a senior living community is one of the most important decisions a family can make. With the help of experienced senior placement professionals in Minneapolis, families can feel supported throughout the process and confident in the choices they make. If you are beginning your search for senior living options, start by visiting the Seniors Blue Book directory to explore trusted resources and senior placement services in Minneapolis.
Because of the nature of their work, musicians of all genres are at risk for noise-induced hearing loss. Additionally, being able to hear properly is vital to the musicians livelihood, from being able to hear the right notes and words to playing in the correct pitch and key. Without proper hearing protection, the loud sounds most musicians experience on stage and while playing their instrument can cause permanent damage to their hearing. Additionally, musicians are also at risk for developing tinnitus, or a ringing-in-the-ears sensation. Tinnitus can be present with or without hearing loss, and while not life-threatening, can seriously deteriorate the quality of life for an individual.Hearing protection for musiciansBoth custom and non-custom products are available for musicians to help prevent hearing loss. Wearing the right ear protection not only helps combat hearing loss, but can also help to prevent tinnitus.Musician earplugs: These earplugs for made for musicians playing a variety of different types of instruments. Theyre available in several types of materials, from foam to a softer plastic, and enable the musician to still hear the music being performed. These earplugs are also beneficial for concert-goers to protect their hearing while still enjoying the music.Electronic earplugs: These earplugs are electronic and can be programmed to adjust to different pitches and sounds depending on the loudness and environment the musician is in. These adaptive earplugs allow musicians to hear the sounds that are important, while filtering out damaging noise levels.In-ear monitors: These high-tech devices are used by musicians or audio-engineer professionals and deliver sound to the ear while creating a barrier to background and damaging noise levels. In-ear monitors are available in custom or universal options.Who Can Benefit from Musician Earplugs?Musician earplugs and protection arent simply designed for individuals in a band, they can actually be beneficial to a number of different people, including:Students in the school band or orchestraMusic teachers or conductorsConcert or festival attendeesNightclub workers or patronsEntertainment industry staffFinding the right ear protectionFinding the right ear protection is vital for musicians to not only perform their jobs, but also prevent hearing loss. If you need additional information or assistance in purchasing musicians earplugs consider visiting a hearing professional near you. A hearing specialist will be able to evaluate your wants and ensure you find the right product for your specific needs.
Comprehensive Special Needs Estate Planning & Special Needs Trusts in PennsylvaniaEstate planning for families with special needs children presents a unique set of financial, legal, and healthcare challenges that require the expertise of a special needs planning attorney. Not all estate planning lawyers understand the intricacies involved, but the experienced special needs estate planning attorneys at Entrusted Legacy Law are dedicated to ensuring your child with special needs is fully protected when you are no longer able to serve as their primary caregiver.We provide a full range of estate planning services tailored to families with special needs children in Pennsylvania. Our goal is to help you preserve assets for your childs future care while ensuring they remain eligible for essential government benefits like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). We assist in setting up special needs trusts (SNTs) to safeguard financial resources, appointing legal guardians and trustees, and identifying long-term care options to ensure your child receives the best possible support and housing solutions.Special Needs Trusts & Asset ProtectionOne of the most significant challenges in special needs financial planning is ensuring that your child has adequate resources without jeopardizing their eligibility for public assistance programs. Many families unknowingly risk disqualifying their child from essential benefits by leaving them a direct financial inheritance. Instead, the best strategy is to establish a special needs trust to provide financial security while preserving their access to Medicaid, SSI, and other government assistance programs.A properly structured special needs trust allows funds to be used for supplemental expensessuch as medical care, therapy, education, and personal carewithout affecting eligibility for disability benefits. However, the regulations governing these trusts are complex. Funds must be managed by a designated trustee and cannot be distributed directly to the beneficiary, as this could trigger disqualification from public benefits. Additionally, a child's needs evolve over time, making it critical to have a trust that can adapt to changing circumstances and legal requirements.By working with an experienced Pennsylvania special needs attorney, you can ensure that your childs special needs trust is legally sound, structured correctly, and customized to their specific requirements.Special Needs Planning for Families in PennsylvaniaAt Entrusted Legacy Law, we specialize in estate planning for children with disabilities, including Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, and other developmental or intellectual disabilities. Our firm helps families create a comprehensive life care plan that provides financial security while safeguarding access to government benefits and essential support services.Whether you need help establishing a special needs trust, securing a legal guardian, or planning for long-term care and housing, our Pennsylvania special needs planning attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the process.Contact Entrusted Legacy Law today to start creating a sustainable, secure future for your child with special needs.
Estate Planning for Everyone You Love and Everything You OwnHave you ever considered what would happenlegally and financiallyto you, your family, your assets, and everything you care about if the unexpected were to occur?If your estate plan is outdated or non-existent, your assets could be lost to the State Department of Unclaimed Property, subjected to an expensive and time-consuming probate process, or even end up in the wrong hands. Without a comprehensive estate plan, your loved ones may face unnecessary financial hardship, legal disputes, or court intervention at a time when they need certainty and protection the most.If you dont know exactly what would happen to everything you own and everyone you love, the first step is to gain clarity. You need to understand how your current estate plan (or lack thereof) will impact your family so you can make informed decisions about whether it truly aligns with your wishes.How Entrusted Legacy Law Helps You With Estate PlanningWe offer customized estate planning solutions designed to protect your family, preserve your wealth, and ensure your wishes are honored. Through our Life and Legacy Planning Session, we take the time to educate you on the legal, financial, and personal implications of your estate choices.Step 1: The Life and Legacy Inventory & AssessmentBefore your Life and Legacy Planning Session, you will complete a comprehensive estate inventory that outlines your financial assets, real estate holdings, retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other valuable property. This step ensures that we have a full picture of your estate and can identify potential gaps in your asset protection strategy.Step 2: Creating a Personalized Estate PlanIf you decide that your current estate plan is inadequateor if you dont have one at allwe will work together to design a legally sound and strategically structured estate plan that meets your familys unique needs. The foundation of your estate plan will often include a revocable living trust, which allows you to transfer your assets into the trust while maintaining control during your lifetime.Benefits of a Revocable Living Trust: Avoid Probate Prevents the time-consuming and expensive court process that could otherwise delay asset distribution. Minimize Estate Taxes Helps reduce tax liabilities and protect your wealth for future generations. Ensure Privacy Unlike a will, which becomes public record, a trust ensures your estate remains private. Maintain Control Dictate how and when your assets are distributed to your heirs.For families with complex financial portfolios, business ownership, or special circumstances (such as blended families or special needs children), we offer advanced estate planning strategies tailored to your specific goals.Can You DIY Your Estate Plan?Many people wonder if they can create an estate plan using online templates or generic legal services. Unfortunately, most DIY estate plans fail when families need them the most. What often passes for "estate planning" is nothing more than basic document generation, where you answer a few questions and receive a generic template that may not fully protect your assets or your loved ones. No Personalization A generic template cannot address your unique family dynamics, financial situation, or specific legal concerns. Legal Loopholes Improperly structured wills or trusts may be contested in court, leaving your family in legal disputes. No Ongoing Maintenance Estate laws change, and without updates, your plan may become outdated and ineffective.At Entrusted Legacy Law, we dont just draft documentswe provide comprehensive estate planning services that ensure your estate plan actually works when it matters most. We take the time to understand your familys needs, educate you on your options, and create a legally enforceable, tax-efficient, and conflict-free estate plan that gives you peace of mind.Protecting Families & Minor Children Through Estate PlanningIf you are a parent with young children, your estate plan should begin with a solid foundation that ensures your children will always be taken care of, no matter what happens. Without the proper legal protections in place, your children could end up in the custody of someone you wouldnt have chosenor worse, under state guardianship.At Entrusted Legacy Law, we specialize in estate planning for families with minor children. We help parents:Name Legal Guardians Ensure your children are raised by trusted individuals of your choosing.Set Up Trusts for Minor Children Prevent financial mismanagement by appointing a responsible trustee to oversee assets.Establish Emergency Plans Provide clear instructions for immediate care in case of sudden incapacity or death.Whether youre planning for minor children, adult dependents, elderly parents, or a complex estate, we can guide you through the estate planning process with personalized strategies to protect your familys future.Secure Your Legacy With Entrusted Legacy LawEstate planning isnt just about who gets whatits about ensuring that your loved ones are financially secure, legally protected, and prepared for the future.If you want to create a comprehensive estate plan that reflects your wishes, avoids probate, minimizes taxes, and keeps your loved ones out of court and out of conflict, then now is the time to take action Contact Entrusted Legacy Law today to schedule your Life and Legacy Planning Session and take the first step in protecting your family, your assets, and your future.
Pennsylvania Probate: What You Need to Know After the Passing of a Loved OneIf you are here to learn about Pennsylvania probate laws after the passing of a loved one, we first want to extend our sincere condolences. We understand that this is a difficult time, and we hope the information on this page provides clarity and helps minimize the legal and administrative challenges you may otherwise face.What Is Probate in Pennsylvania?Probate in Pennsylvania is a court-supervised legal process that ensures the transfer of assets from a deceased individual to their rightful heirs or beneficiaries. This process is essential for: Proving the validity of a will Appointing an executor (if there is a will) or an administrator (if there is no will) Inventorying and appraising estate property Paying outstanding debts, estate taxes, and creditors Distributing assets as directed by the willor by Pennsylvania intestacy laws if no will existsIn Pennsylvania, if a deceased person owned real estate or assets solely in their name, their estate must go through probate before assets can be legally distributed.The Downsides of Pennsylvania Probateand What You Can Do NextMany residents in Allegheny County, Butler County, Beaver County, Washington County, and Westmoreland County have heard that probate is a lengthy, expensive, and public process. Unfortunately, this is truewithout proper estate planning, probate can be costly and time-consuming.The best way to avoid probate in Pennsylvania is to plan ahead using strategies such as revocable living trusts, beneficiary designations, and joint ownership structures. However, if you are already in a position where probate is required, the best thing you can do is educate yourself and seek experienced probate legal assistance to complete the process as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.How Is a Probate Case Started in Pennsylvania?Probate can be initiated by any beneficiary or creditor, but most often, the process begins when the Executor named in the will files the original will and a petition with the Pennsylvania probate court.If there is no will, a close relative of the deceased (such as a spouse, child, or sibling) typically files the petition to become the Administrator of the Estate.Choosing the Executor for a Pennsylvania EstateIf a valid will exists, the individual named as Executor will handle the probate processif they are eligible and willingIf no Executor is available or no will exists, any interested party (such as a family member) can petition the Pennsylvania Orphans' Court to be appointed as the Administrator of the Estate.Executor Compensation in PennsylvaniaUnder Pennsylvania probate law, Executors and Administrators receive compensation based on a percentage of the total probate estate value. This is designed to fairly compensate them for their time and effort in managing estate matters.However, Executors can be held personally liable for any mistakes made during the process. Given the complexity of Pennsylvania probate rules, its critical to work with a skilled probate attorney to avoid legal pitfalls.Do You Need to Go Through Probate If a Trust Exists?In most cases, no. If the deceaseds assets were properly titled in the name of a trust, probate is not required. Instead, the successor trustee will work with an estate planning lawyer to administer the trust and distribute assets.However, many families are surprised to learn that simply having a trust does not guarantee that probate will be avoided. Common mistakes include: The trust was not updated over time to reflect new assets. The decedents assets were never properly transferred into the trust.To ensure your estate plan works as intended, its important to work with an estate planning attorney who provides ongoing trust maintenance and reviews.Which Assets Are Subject to Probate in Pennsylvania?Assets that must go through probate include: Real estate, bank accounts, or investments owned solely in the deceaseds name Personal property and valuable assets without a beneficiary designationAssets that bypass probate include: Jointly owned property with Right of Survivorship Bank accounts or investment accounts with Transfer on Death (TOD) or Payable on Death (POD) designations Life insurance policies and retirement accounts with named beneficiariesHowever, some assets that normally bypass probate can still become subject to the process under certain circumstances. Consult with a Pennsylvania probate attorney to determine if probate applies to your specific situation.How Pennsylvania Intestacy Laws Distribute an Estate When There Is No WillIf no valid will exists, Pennsylvania intestacy laws dictate how the estate will be distributed:1 Spouse (If married, a portion or all of the estate goes to the spouse)2 Children (If the deceased had children, they inherit next)3 Parents (If there are no children, parents inherit)4 Siblings (If no spouse, children, or parents, siblings inherit)This highlights the importance of estate planningwithout a will or trust, the state determines who receives your assets.How Long Does Pennsylvania Probate Take?The timeline for Pennsylvania probate varies depending on the estates complexity. On average: Minimum of 12 months for simple cases Up to 2+ years for complex estates, disputes, or tax-related mattersWhat Are the Costs of Probate in Pennsylvania?Probate costs in Pennsylvania include: Attorneys fees (Based on estate size and complexity) Court filing fees Executor fees (set by Pennsylvania law) Appraisal and valuation fees Publication and administrative costsIn more complex estates, additional fees may apply, increasing probate expenses and delays.How to Choose the Right Pennsylvania Probate AttorneySelecting the right probate lawyer in Pennsylvania is crucial. Many general practice lawyers dabble in probate law, but only experienced probate attorneys have the knowledge to navigate complex estate matters efficiently. You do NOT have to use the attorney who prepared the will. You have the right to choose a specialized probate lawyer who understands the nuances of Pennsylvania estate law and can expedite the process. Avoid costly mistakes. Working with an experienced probate attorney prevents errors that could increase costs, cause delays, or result in legal disputes.Contact Entrusted Legacy Law for a Complimentary Pennsylvania Probate ConsultationIf youre ready to begin the probate process in Pennsylvania, our Allegheny County and Butler County probate attorneys are here to guide you.Call us at 412-347-1731 to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation to determine your next best steps.During your consultation, we will: Answer your probate-related questions Provide guidance on estate administration Help you navigate the Pennsylvania probate process efficientlyWe are here to relieve the legal and administrative burden during this difficult time and ensure that your loved ones estate is handled with care.