The Growing Concern: Long-Term Care Costs Long-term care costs in Massachusetts and Vermont can exceed $12,000 per month. Homeowners in Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, and Tolland frequently ask how to preserve their homes without disqualifying themselves from Medicaid. Medicaid’s Look-Back Rule MassHealth (Massachusetts Medicaid) and Vermont Medicaid both have a five-year look-back period. If you give… Read More »
Posts By Author: Tiffany O'ConnellPage 2
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act and Its Impact on Medicaid: What Massachusetts Needs to Know
The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA), signed by President Trump on July 4, 2025, introduces sweeping Medicaid reforms that could significantly affect MassHealth coverage in Massachusetts. From new work requirements and stricter eligibility checks to limits on provider funding, OBBBA may reshape how millions access and afford care. Here’s what you need to know about the most important changes—and how they could impact you or your loved ones in the years ahead.
What Happens If I Die Without a Will in Massachusetts?
Intestacy Explained When someone in Massachusetts dies without a will, the estate is distributed under intestacy laws. The Probate and Family Court in your county—whether in Boston, Central Massachusetts, or the Pioneer Valley—follows a strict order of heirs. Who Inherits If you are married with children from different relationships, your spouse and children share the… Read More »
Do I Need Both a Will and a Trust in Massachusetts or Vermont?
Understanding The Will-Trust Question One of the most common estate-planning questions from residents of Eastern Massachusetts, the Pioneer Valley, and all across Vermont is whether a will alone is enough—or if a trust is also needed. The truth is that most people benefit from having both documents. Each serves a unique purpose, and together they… Read More »
How Much Does a Trust Cost in Massachusetts or Vermont?
Families in East Longmeadow, Framingham, Natick, and Tolland, MA, often ask how much it costs to set up a trust. The answer depends on several factors. Average Cost Of A Trust A basic revocable living trust in Massachusetts typically ranges from $5,000 to $7,500. More complex trusts — such as special needs trusts or Medicaid… Read More »
What Happens to My House in Brimfield or Brookline If I Don’t Have an Estate Plan?
For many families, the family home is the most valuable asset they own. Whether you live in Brimfield, Brookline, Sherborn, or Dover, MA, what happens to your house after you pass away depends on whether you have a proper estate plan. Without a Will or Trust If you pass away without a will, your house… Read More »
Do I Really Need a Will in Massachusetts or Vermont?
When people in Boston, Brookline, or even small towns like Brimfield or Southwick, MA type this question into Google, they’re usually wondering if creating a will is something they can put off — or avoid altogether. The short answer is yes, almost everyone in Massachusetts and Vermont should have a will. What Happens If You… Read More »
Is Remote Notarization Allowed in Massachusetts?
NO, sorry. As of September, 2025, remote notarization in Massachusetts is still not allowed. What that means is for an estate plan, you need to have an actual person with you notarizing and witnessing where appropriate for your legal documents. There is definitely discussions at the state level to have things be able to go… Read More »
Estate Planning for Business Owners: Securing Your Company’s Future and Your Legacy
Without estate planning, your business could face taxes, disputes, or liquidation if something happens to you. Learn how succession plans, buy-sell agreements, and tax strategies protect your company, family, and legacy.
Protecting Seniors from Financial Exploitation: Legal Safeguards Every Family Should Consider
Older Americans lose billions each year to scams and financial abuse. Learn the warning signs of elder financial exploitation and the legal safeguards—like trusts, guardianships, and powers of attorney—that can protect your loved ones while preserving their independence.