Elder Law, Estate Planning Michaela Bruton Elder Law, Estate Planning Michaela Bruton

If I Qualify for TennCare (Medicaid), Can I Pay My Loved One to Be My Caretaker?

Some seniors who receive TennCare (Medicaid) may be eligible to use those benefits to employ a family member, friend, or other trusted individual to provide them with care in their own home (“Consumer Direction”). There are many criteria an individual must meet to qualify for Consumer Direction care. Consumer Direction care is unlikely to be approved if other forms of care available through TennCare will suit your individual needs.

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Business Law, Elder Law, Estate Planning Michaela Bruton Business Law, Elder Law, Estate Planning Michaela Bruton

What Happens if You Die Without a Will in Tennessee

Creating a Will is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. However, if you pass away without a Will or a Living Trust in Tennessee, your assets are distributed based on the state’s intestate succession laws. This process may not reflect your personal preferences, and it can lead to outcomes that leave your loved ones with unexpected challenges.

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Business Law, Elder Law, Estate Planning Michaela Bruton Business Law, Elder Law, Estate Planning Michaela Bruton

Estate Planning for Families with Blended Religious or Cultural Beliefs: A Thanksgiving Approach

Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, family, and gratitude. For families with diverse religious or cultural backgrounds, it’s also a time to celebrate the unique blend of traditions that each member brings to the table. When it comes to estate planning, this diversity can create both opportunities and challenges. An estate plan tailored to a family’s beliefs not only protects assets but also ensures that each family member’s values and wishes are respected for future generations.Here, we’ll explore key estate planning steps for families with blended beliefs, with a focus on using Thanksgiving as an opportunity to begin a conversation about protecting your legacy.

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Elder Law, Estate Planning Leigh Cowden Elder Law, Estate Planning Leigh Cowden

Qualifying for TennCare Benefits to Pay for Assisted Living in Tennessee

Navigating the complexities of healthcare financing can be daunting, especially for individuals and families seeking financial assistance to help pay for long-term care in Tennessee. TennCare, Tennessee’s Medicaid program, offers a critical safety net for many residents requiring assistance with daily living activities, including those residing in assisted living facilities. This article provides an overview of the qualifications needed to qualify for TennCare benefits and how they can be utilized to cover assisted living costs.

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Elder Law, Estate Planning Leigh Cowden Elder Law, Estate Planning Leigh Cowden

How to Protect Assets from a Medicaid-Required Spend-Down

Many people rightly worry about what happens if they have to go into a nursing home and they don’t have long-term care insurance. They’ve heard stories about people who had to spend down their entire nest egg before they could qualify for any government benefits. The stories are true, and it happens all the time, but it’s not your only option.

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