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If you have grandchildren — or are getting ready to welcome
one — you know the special joy they bring. After all, you can now leave all the
heavy lifting to the parents and just enjoy connecting with them.
Many grandparents who enjoy financial freedom are often more than generous to grandchildren. And some even wish to see their grandchildren enjoy an inheritance now instead of waiting to pass along assets after they are gone. If that’s you, here are seven things you should think about before you make gifts to grandchildren.
Clarify The Gift
Most grandparents gift outright, no strings attached. But if
you think you are providing a loan or an advance on an inheritance, you need to
clarify that in writing.
Equal Treatment
It is not unusual for a grandparent to be closer to some
grandchildren than others, but when you are gifting assets, unequal treatment
among grandchildren could lead to family resentments. Even if you give more to
some than others during your life, consider treating all grandchildren equally
in your estate plan.
Taxes
With the federal gift tax threshold at $12.92 million
(double that for married couples), most people won’t have to worry about paying
federal gift taxes. However, any gift to an individual that exceeds $17,000
each year ($34,000 for married couples) must be reported on a gift tax return.
Education
You can help with a grandchild’s college tuition by making
payments directly to their educational institutions, which don’t have to be
reported. And there is no limit on these contributions. Investing in a 529 plan
for each of your grandchildren is also a great way to help them (and their
parents!) save for college, building a tax-deferred account that will never be
taxed as long as it is used for educational purposes.
Your Own Needs
It’s tempting to be too generous in making gifts to
grandchildren, but you should not give to the detriment of your own needs.
Finding the right balance will help ensure your children and grandchildren
don’t have to support you because you gave too much to them.
Long-Term Care
Chances are that you will need some kind of long-term care
at the end of your life, research shows that most of us will. If you can’t
afford long-term care and need help, any gift of assets you have given could
make you ineligible for Medicaid benefits for five years.
Consider A Trust
There are many reasons why you should not give gifts of cash
or assets to grandchildren, some that you may not even be aware of. Lots of
cash could be fuel on the fire of bad behavior or undermine your own children’s
goals for their children. To make a lasting gift, consider using a trust that
will pass assets along to grandchildren safely and protect those assets from
bad behavior, bad marriages and bad credit.
If you have questions, contact Sharek Law Office at 412-547-9855 or click here to schedule a complimentary 15-Minute Call with our staff to learn how we can help
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.
Planning for the future is one of the most important gifts we can give our loved ones. Estate planning ensures that your wishes are honored, your assets are protected, and your legacy is preserved. For seniors in Northern Colorado, the need for clear and comprehensive estate planning is more relevant than ever as the region continues to grow and attract retirees seeking a peaceful, well-supported lifestyle.Whether you're new to the idea of estate planning or revisiting your documents after a life change, this guide is here to support your next steps. What Is Estate Planning?Estate planning is the process of preparing legal documents and making decisions about the management and distribution of your assets in the event of your incapacity or passing. A well-designed estate plan typically includes:Wills and trustsPowers of attorney (POA)Advance directives or living willsGuardianship designations (if needed)Instructions for final arrangementsFor seniors, estate planning is not just about distributing assetsit's about ensuring that your health care, finances, and legacy reflect your wishes and values. Why Estate Planning Is Essential for Seniors in Northern ColoradoThe Northern Colorado regionfrom Fort Collins and Loveland to Greeley and surrounding townsis home to a growing senior population. As families settle in this beautiful and resource-rich area, it becomes more important than ever to be proactive about future planning.Heres why estate planning matters:Avoids family disputes and ensures your assets are handled as intendedProtects your home and financial assets from probate and unnecessary taxesDesignates a trusted individual to make decisions if you become unable toClarifies your healthcare wishes in case of medical emergenciesSupports a smooth transition for loved ones during emotionally difficult times Common Estate Planning Documents Every Senior Should Consider Will Outlines who will receive your assets and can name guardians for minor children. Trust Offers more control over when and how your assets are distributed. Certain trusts can also help avoid probate. Durable Power of Attorney Appoints someone to manage your financial affairs if youre unable to. Healthcare Power of Attorney Names a person to make medical decisions on your behalf. Living Will/Advance Directive Provides instructions about the types of medical care you do or do not want. Estate Planning Tips for Northern Colorado ResidentsNorthern Colorados unique blend of urban amenities and rural charm means estate plans should be tailored to your specific situation, whether you own property, run a family business, or simply want to leave clear instructions for loved ones.Here are some helpful tips:Update your documents regularly Review them every 35 years or after major life events like marriages, births, or relocations.Understand state-specific laws Colorado has its own requirements regarding probate and trusts. Consulting with a legal professional familiar with Colorado estate law is essential.Plan for long-term care Consider how you would pay for assisted living, in-home care, or skilled nursing if needed.Keep your family informed Communicate your plans and make sure key individuals know where to access your documents. Trusted Estate Planning Resources in Northern ColoradoWhile Seniors Blue Book does not endorse specific providers, we offer a neutral and comprehensive directory of estate planning professionals, senior resource organizations, and support services across Northern Colorado.Explore our Senior Resource Directory for Northern Colorado Browse Estate Planning Services in Northern ColoradoThese resources can help you find local attorneys, financial advisors, notaries, and support groups to guide your planning process. Final ThoughtsEstate planning isnt just a legal processits a deeply personal way to care for the people and causes you love. For seniors living in Northern Colorado, taking time now to organize your estate means more peace of mind, fewer burdens for your family, and a stronger legacy for generations to come. Whether you're getting started or updating an existing plan, youre not alone. Use the resources at SeniorsBlueBook.com to learn more, get connected, and take the next step with confidence.
Planning for retirement is one of the most important financial and lifestyle decisions youll ever make. And if you live in or are considering moving to Northern Colorado, youre in a region that offers both the natural beauty and supportive resources ideal for enjoying your later years.In this guide, well walk through the key elements of retirement planning for seniors in Northern Colorado, with a focus on local insights, resources, and steps to help you feel confident about your future. Why Retirement Planning MattersWhether youre approaching retirement or have already transitioned out of the workforce, having a thoughtful retirement plan ensures you can maintain your lifestyle, protect your health, and plan for unexpected needs.Heres why it matters:Financial security: Helps manage savings, income streams, and expenses.Health care preparedness: Plans for future medical needs and long-term care.Housing choices: Assists in evaluating whether to age in place or consider senior housing.Peace of mind: Reduces stress for both you and your family. What Makes Northern Colorado a Great Place to Retire?Northern Colorado includes vibrant communities like Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, and Longmont, each offering a unique blend of outdoor beauty, strong healthcare systems, and senior-friendly amenities.Local highlights include:Proximity to top-rated hospitals and clinicsA growing number of 55+ communities and senior housing optionsAccess to nature trails, recreation centers, and wellness programsA variety of local nonprofits and government services focused on aging adultsThese features make Northern Colorado an ideal region to create a retirement plan tailored to your needs and goals. Key Steps to Start Retirement PlanningIf youre just beginning your retirement journeyor want to fine-tune your current planhere are essential steps to consider:1. Evaluate Your FinancesReview your savings, retirement accounts (like IRAs or 401(k)s), Social Security benefits, and other income sources. Consider meeting with a financial planner who specializes in retirement.2. Understand Medicare and Healthcare OptionsHealth coverage is a major part of retirement planning. Educate yourself about Medicare, supplemental insurance, and local health providers to ensure you have reliable care.3. Plan for Long-Term CareMany older adults will need assistance with daily activities or medical care at some point. Northern Colorado offers a wide range of senior housing and home care options to explore.Browse the Retirement Planning section in your area: Retirement Planning Resources - Northern Colorado4. Consider Your Housing NeedsDo you want to stay in your current home, downsize, or move into a retirement community? Take stock of your preferences and available options in the area.5. Think About Your Lifestyle GoalsHow do you want to spend your time in retirement? Northern Colorado has a wealth of opportunities for volunteering, travel, learning, fitness, and social engagement. Retirement Planning Resources in Northern ColoradoNorthern Colorado has several community programs and organizations dedicated to helping seniors plan for a secure and fulfilling retirement. From free workshops to financial counseling and local senior centers, residents can tap into a wide variety of support.You can also use Seniors Blue Book to search for trusted local providers and educational resources.Start exploring: Northern Colorado Senior Resource Directory Final ThoughtsPlanning for retirement in Northern Colorado offers not only peace of mind but also the opportunity to thrive in a region known for its community, quality of life, and senior services. Whether you're just starting out or revisiting your plan, taking the time to evaluate your options and prepare for the years ahead can make all the difference. Let Seniors Blue Book be your guide as you navigate local resources, plan for future care, and enjoy everything retirement has to offer.
As we age, we face unique legal challenges that require thoughtful planning and expert guidance. Elder law is a specialized area of legal practice focused on addressing the needs of older adults, their families, and caregivers. In Northern Colorado, with its growing senior population, its more important than ever to understand the role of elder lawyers and how they can assist in managing legal and financial matters.In this blog, well explore what elder law encompasses, the services provided by elder lawyers, and how to find the right legal support in Northern Colorado. What Is Elder Law?Elder law refers to legal issues that are particularly relevant to seniors, such as estate planning, guardianship, long-term care, and healthcare. Elder law attorneys specialize in helping older adults protect their rights and assets, plan for the future, and navigate the complexities of aging-related legal matters.Key areas of elder law include:Estate Planning: Drafting wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advanced healthcare directives.Guardianship and Conservatorship: Appointing a trusted individual to make decisions on behalf of someone who can no longer care for themselves.Medicaid and Medicare Planning: Ensuring seniors receive the healthcare benefits they are entitled to, while also protecting assets.Long-Term Care Planning: Preparing for the financial and legal aspects of nursing homes or in-home care.Elder Abuse: Addressing concerns regarding financial exploitation, physical abuse, or neglect. Why You Need an Elder Lawyer in Northern ColoradoThe need for elder law services has grown rapidly in Northern Colorado due to its aging population. As more seniors face the challenges of aging, they require legal advice to ensure their wishes are respected and that they have the resources and protections they need.Heres why hiring an elder lawyer in Northern Colorado is so important:1. Comprehensive Estate PlanningAn experienced elder lawyer can help you create a clear and legally binding estate plan. This includes drafting wills, creating trusts, and ensuring your financial matters are handled the way you desire. Without proper estate planning, your assets could be misallocated, or your family may face lengthy legal disputes.2. Navigating Long-Term CareOne of the most critical aspects of elder law is planning for long-term care. In Northern Colorado, where there is a high demand for senior care services, elder lawyers can assist you in understanding your options for paying for long-term care. They can guide you through Medicaid planning, VA benefits, and other financial support programs.3. Protecting Against Elder AbuseSadly, elder abuse is a growing concern, including financial exploitation and physical harm. An elder lawyer can help you understand how to protect yourself or your loved one from these threats and ensure that any concerns are properly addressed.4. Guardianship and ConservatorshipIf an aging parent or loved one is no longer able to manage their affairs, an elder lawyer can assist in establishing guardianship or conservatorship. These legal arrangements ensure that someone trusted is appointed to make critical decisions on behalf of your loved one. How to Find the Right Elder Lawyer in Northern ColoradoWhen searching for an elder lawyer in Northern Colorado, there are several factors to consider:Experience and Specialization: Make sure the attorney specializes in elder law and has experience in the areas that are most important to you.Reputation: Look for reviews and referrals from others who have worked with the lawyer. Trusted recommendations are invaluable when choosing a legal professional.Consultations: Many elder lawyers offer initial consultations. Use this opportunity to ask about their approach to elder law, fees, and experience handling similar cases.Accessibility: Ensure that the lawyer is accessible and responsive. This is especially important when dealing with time-sensitive issues related to health and financial matters. Local Resources for Elder Law in Northern ColoradoNorthern Colorado is home to a number of reputable legal professionals and resources that can help seniors navigate their legal needs. Whether you are in Fort Collins, Loveland, or Greeley, there are local attorneys who specialize in elder law and are ready to assist you.Explore the resources available to seniors in Northern Colorado here: Elder Law Resources in Northern Colorado Directory of Elder Law Professionals in Northern Colorado Conclusion: Protect Your Future with Elder Law SupportAs you navigate the complexities of aging, the guidance of an experienced elder lawyer can provide invaluable peace of mind. Whether you're planning for your future or supporting a loved one, having the right legal support in place ensures that your wishes are respected and your rights protected. Dont wait until a crisis arisesstart planning today. For more information and to find a trusted elder lawyer in Northern Colorado, explore the resources on Seniors Blue Book.
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.
Our Firm Prepares You for Life What makes our firm different is that we were built with the needs of growing families in mind. We understand you are BUSY, you are growing, you are planning for a life of prosperity and you value ease, convenience and efficiency. You are raising children, and caring for elderly parents, while also working hard to build your own nest egg for a lifetime of support. You want to know youve made the best decisions for your family and that your plan will work when your loved ones need it most. You want to make sure your minor children would be raised by the people you choose, and never by anyone you wouldnt want, and that your teens and adult children are properly prepared to care for you and what you leave behind. You want to feel confident that youve made the right choices, and handled everything so that you arent leaving behind a mess, when something happens. That is our focus as well. Weve developed unique systems to give you the same access to a Personal Family Lawyer as was previously only available to the super-wealthy, so you can have the guidance you need to build and maintain a life of prosperity and wealth. And, to keep your family out of court and out of conflict, which is the greatest risk to the people you love and all you have created, even if youve already worked with a traditional lawyer or created documents online. Our Team Is Here for You We encourage communication with our clients. In fact, weve thrown out the time clocks so you never have to be afraid to call with a quick question. Everything we do is billed on a flat-fee basis, agreed to in advance, so there are never any surprises. We have a whole team to serve you. When you call our office to ask your quick question, you wont have to wait hours or days for a phone call back. Youll get your question answered, right away. And, if you need to schedule a more in-depth legal or strategic call with your Personal Family Lawyer, a call will be scheduled when you're both available and ready for the call so we can make the very best use of your time and not waste your time by leaving voicemail after voicemail back and forth. And, we ensure the most important details of your planning are followed through on and your plan continues to work throughout your lifetime. We have a funding coordinator to ensure your assets are owned the right way throughout your lifetime and none of your assets will end up going through a long, expensive court process or being lost to the state because they were missed after your death. Weve created unique membership programs to keep your plan up to date year in and year out as well as give you access to our Trusted Team of Legal Experts for guidance on ANY legal or financial matter. One day you will need a lawyer. I dont know why and I dont know when, but when you do, you will be grateful you can call on us and well be here to advise you or get you out of a jam. We Help You Transfer Your Life and Legacy Lastly, we believe your financial wealth is only a small part of your overall Life and Legacy Planning which is made up of your far more valuable and most often lost upon incapacity or death intellectual, spiritual and human assets. These assets are what make you who you are, and sum up whats most important to you. And, a survey of inheritors has revealed that what they care about even more than inheriting your money, is inheriting these intangible assets. Most estate plans only focus on the transfer of your financial wealth to the next generation. Most people have such great intentions of passing on the intangible, but very few ever get around to it. Its just not a priority, until its too late. How much do you know about your grandparents values? Their most prized personal possessions? How they felt about you? What they had learned during their lifetime? If you are like most people, you know very little. Thats why we build the capture and passage of these most valuable assets into every estate plan we create. Not only will we help you pass on your money, but also your values, your insights, your stories and your experience the truly valuable assets your loved ones care about the most. Weve developed a tool that allows us to capture and pass on your whole family wealth, including your Intellectual, Spiritual and Human assets. I cant go into all of the details here, but well definitely talk about it when you come in for your Life and Legacy Planning Session.
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.